Mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa

Abstract

A mechanism (100) for converting between rectilinear and rotary motion comprises an endless rack (200) with a central slot (220) defined by longitudinal sides (230, 240) and lateral sides (250, 260), each having teeth sets (235, 245, 255, 265). A pinion (300) with teeth (320) sequentially engages with these teeth sets. Sliding mounts (400) with linear bearings (410, 420) and holders (450) guide the pinion's movement while enabling rotation. The mechanism connects to a piston (500) directly or via a connecting rod (600). This innovation provides efficient continuous reciprocating motion without complex lubrication systems, reducing maintenance needs and operational costs. The compact design minimizes mechanical stress and wear through synchronized movement of sliding mounts, making it suitable for diverse industrial applications including manufacturing equipment and transportation systems. The mechanism's versatile construction allows integration with various power sources and application tools, enhancing its economic viability across industries.

Description

MECHANISM FOR CONVERTING RECTILINEAR MOTION TO ROTARY MOTION AND VICE-VERSAFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to motion conversion mechanisms. More particularly, the invention pertains to mechanisms for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa in power transmission applications.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Motion conversion mechanisms play a pivotal role across diverse industrial applications, from manufacturing equipment to transportation systems. The fundamental necessity of converting linear motion to rotary motion, and vice versa, has been a cornerstone of mechanical engineering since the industrial revolution.

[0003] Conventional motion conversion systems predominantly rely on crankshaft mechanisms, scotch yoke arrangements, or rack-and-pinion systems. While these traditional approaches have served industry needs, they present inherent limitations in terms of mechanical efficiency, continuous operation capabilities, and spatial constraints.

[0004] The limitations of existing systems become particularly apparent in applications requiring compact design parameters or continuousreciprocating motion. Traditional crankshaft mechanisms, for instance, introduce significant lateral forces that result in accelerated wear and reduced operational efficiency. Similarly, conventional rack-and-pinion systems, while effective for limited motion ranges, face challenges in applications requiring continuous reciprocating movement.

[0005] Furthermore, current solutions often necessitate complex lubrication systems and frequent maintenance interventions, leading to increased operational costs and system downtime. The mechanical stress concentrations in existing designs can result in premature component failure, particularly under high-load conditions.

[0006] These inherent limitations have created a pressing need in the industry for an innovative mechanism that can achieve efficient motion conversion while addressing the drawbacks associated with conventional systems. Such a mechanism should ideally combine operational reliability with reduced maintenance requirements, while maintaining precision in motion conversion across varied applications.OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Some of the objects of the presently disclosed invention, of which at the minimum one object is fulfilled by at least one embodiment disclosed

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that enables efficient conversion between rectilinear and rotary motion while minimizing mechanical stress and wear.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that achieves continuous reciprocating motion without the need for complex lubrication systems or frequent maintenance interventions.

[0010] A further object of the present invention is to provide a compact and versatile motion conversion mechanism suitable for diverse industrial applications while maintaining operational precision and reliability.

[0011] Other objects and benefits of the present invention will be more apparent from the following description which is not intended to bind the scope of the present invention.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The invention pertains to mechanisms for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa in power transmission applications

[0013] The mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa comprising an endless rack having a body with a slot, the slot defined by first and second longitudinal sides and first and second lateral sides, wherein the first longitudinal side comprises a first teeth set, the second longitudinal side comprises a second teeth set, the first lateral side comprises afirst arc teeth set, and the second lateral side comprises a second arc teeth set, a pinion comprising a shaft with first and second terminal ends and a set of teeth extending from a shaft surface, wherein the pinion is received in the slot and sized such that the set of teeth meshes with only one of the first teeth set, second teeth set, first arc teeth set, or second arc teeth set at a time, a pair of sliding mounts each comprising a body slidably secured to and disposed on respective lateral surfaces of the endless rack, wherein first and second linear bearings are disposed between each sliding mount and the respective lateral surface, each sliding mount comprising a circular through aperture configured to receive a holder, and a bearing disposed between an outer periphery of the holder and an inner periphery of the circular through aperture, each holder comprising a through aperture configured to receive a respective terminal end of the shaft, and a piston connected to the mechanism directly or via a connecting rod.

[0014] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the first and second linear bearings enable linear movement of the sliding mounts along the lateral surfaces of the endless rack.

[0015] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the bearing enables rotational movement of the holder within the circular through aperture.

[0016] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the pinion is configured to engage sequentially with the first teeth set, first arc teeth set, second teeth set, and second arc teeth set during operation.

[0017] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the first and second arc teeth sets enable transition of the pinion between engagement with the first and second teeth sets.

[0018] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the sliding mounts are configured to move synchronously along opposite lateral surfaces of the endless rack.

[0019] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the through apertures of the holders are aligned to support the shaft of the pinion.

[0020] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the endless rack is configured to provide continuous reciprocating motion.

[0021] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the piston is configured to drive the mechanism in a reciprocating manner when connected directly thereto.

[0022] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the connecting rod is configured to transfer motion between the piston and the mechanism when the piston is indirectly connected to the mechanism.

[0023] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the pinion is configured to drive a wheel of a vehicle through mechanical coupling.

[0024] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the mechanism comprises an aperture having a shape selected from a rectangle, square, oval, circular, elliptical, rhombus, semi-circular, rectangle with rounded edges, square with rounded edges, or combinations thereof.

[0025] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the mechanism is configured to connect to a utility, wherein the utility is a power source or application tool.

[0026] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the power source is an internal combustion engine.

[0027] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the application tool is selected from a hammer, fluid compressor, displacing tool, cutting tool, or combinations thereof.

[0028] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, the mechanism is constructed from a material selected from a metal, non-metal, alloy, or combinations thereof, wherein the metal is selected from iron, steel, copper, aluminum, lead, bronze, or combinations thereof, the non-metal is selected from wood, glass, plastic, rubber, ceramic, or combinations thereof, and the alloy is selected from steel alloys, copper alloys, ferroalloys, aluminum alloys, or combinations thereof.

[0029] In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, the mechanism for converting between rectilinear and rotary motion comprising acontinuous track having a central slot defined by opposing sides with teeth, a pinion having teeth configured to sequentially engage with the teeth of the opposing sides, mounting assemblies configured to guide movement of the pinion along the track while enabling its rotation, and a reciprocating element operatively connected directly or through a connecting rod to drive or be driven by the mechanism during the conversion between rectilinear and rotary motion.

[0030] In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, a mechanism for motion conversion, comprising an endless track means having a slot means with opposing sides configured for providing alternating tooth engagement surfaces, rotary engagement means comprising a shaft means with terminal portions and tooth means extending from a shaft surface, said rotary engagement means being configured for sequential mesh engagement with said tooth engagement surfaces, mounting means comprising bearing support means configured for enabling linear translation along lateral surfaces of said endless track means, rotation enabling means comprising aperture means configured for receiving holder means, and bearing means configured for enabling rotation between said holder means and said aperture means, shaft support means comprising through apertures in said holder means configured for supporting said terminal portions of said shaft means, and reciprocating means configured for operative connection to said mechanism directly or through connecting means.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWING

[0031] The present discourse shall expound upon the inventive subject matter in conjunction with the accompanying schematic, tendered herewith as an elucidatory framework. This schematic serves as an exemplary to facilitate a deeper apprehension of the intricate constituents and nuanced functionalities inherent in the invention. It is incumbent upon the reader to acknowledge that the schematic, while provided for elucidative purposes, does not adhere to precise scaling and thus is not intended to circumscribe the breadth of the invention.

[0032] Furthermore, it is imperative to underscore that the depictions of embodiments within the schematic are merely illustrative and should not be misconstrued as imposing limitations upon the scope of the invention in any capacity. The adaptability and modifiability of the disclosed embodiments remain uninhibited, and variations thereof may be effectuated without departing from the fundamental essence and coverage of the invention, as defined by the appended claims. The linguistic expressions utilized herein are formulated for descriptive explication and are not intended to impose constraints upon the scope of the invention.

[0033] Through meticulous scrutiny of this visual aid, the reader is afforded a comprehensive and exhaustive comprehension of the operational mechanics and structural composition of the invention. The schematic, serving as a pictorial complement to the ensuing detailed narrative, accentuates the salient facets and distinctive attributes of the invention. It is paramount to recognize that the ensuing narrative discourse aims to provide elucidation regarding variousmanifestations of the invention and does not purport to encompass every conceivable permutation thereof. The construal of the invention's ambit is to be guided by the appended claims and their attendant legal equivalents, ensuring a robust and encompassing interpretation thereof.

[0034] FIG. 1 A illustrates a schematic side view of a mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention in a first configuration.

[0035] FIG. IB illustrates a schematic side cross-section view along a short axis of the mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa of FIG. 1A.

[0036] FIG. 1C illustrates a schematic side view of a mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention in a second configuration.

[0037] FIG. ID illustrates a schematic side view of a mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention in a third configuration.

[0038] FIG. 2A illustrates an isometric view of the pinion in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 2B illustrates a schematic side view of the pinion of FIG.

[0040] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic side view of the endless rack and the pinion of FIG. 1A.

[0041] FIG. 4A illustrates a schematic side view of bearing employed in the mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa of FIG. 1A.

[0042] FIG. 4B illustrates a schematic side view of a holder employed in the mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa of FIG. 1A.

[0043] FIG. 5A illustrates a schematic side view of sliding mount employed in the mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa of FIG. 1A.

[0044] FIG. 5B illustrates a schematic side view of sliding mount with other components employed in the mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa of FIG. 1A.LIST OF NUMERALS

[0045] The following enumeration delineates the reference numerals utilized throughout the figures and detailed description, serving as precise identifiers for various components and elements disclosed herein.Numeral Component Name100 - Mechanism200 - Endless rack / Continuous trackLateral surfacesBodySlotFirst longitudinal sideFirst teeth setSecond longitudinal sideSecond teeth setFirst lateral sideFirst arc teeth setSecond lateral sideSecond arc teeth setPinionShaftFirst terminal endSecond terminal endSet of teethShaft surfaceSliding mounts / Mounting assemblies BodyFirst linear bearingSecond linear bearingCircular through apertureBearingHolderThrough aperture Piston / Reciprocating element Connecting rodDETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Within the ensuing description and appended claims, a meticulous adherence to specialized lexicon and technical terminology is mandated, with interpretations thereof aligning with their conventional meanings ascribed within the pertinent field, unless explicitly redefined within this context.

[0047] Throughout the exposition and associated claims, it is crucial to underscore that the use of singular forms such as "a," "an," and "the" is intended to encompass plural references, thereby embracing diverse instances unless the context unequivocally necessitates a singular interpretation. Similarly, the inclusion of terms like "one," "a," "an," or "the" is deemed inclusive of both singular and plural manifestations, unless the context decidedly dictates otherwise.

[0048] Sequential designations, denoted by terms such as "first," "second," "third," and the like, serve exclusively to differentiate between various elements or components and do not imply any inherent sequence or hierarchical structure, unless explicitly stipulated or inferred from the context.

[0049] The term "may" convey a sense of possibility or alternative rather than obligation, unless expressly mandated by the contextual milieu.

[0050] References to specific materials, compositions, or substances inherently encompass their functional equivalents unless explicitly specified otherwise by the context.

[0051] Expressions delineating spatial orientation such as "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "front," "rear," "side," and the like, serve solely to describe the relative positioning or orientation of elements or components within the disclosed embodiments and should not be construed as confining the invention to any particular spatial configuration unless explicitly declared or inferred from the context.

[0052] Terms such as "coupled," "connected," and "attached," including their variations, are utilized interchangeably and do not impose limitations on the nature of connection or attachment, unless explicitly necessitated by the context.

[0053] Numeric values specified within this discourse are inherently inclusive of a range extending approximately 10% below and above the stated value, unless an alternate range is expressly delineated.

[0054] Phrases such as "in one embodiment" are not indicative of identical embodiments but rather denote distinct instances that may represent different facets or aspects of the invention.

[0055] The terms "optional" or "optionally" signify that subsequent elements, steps, or features may or may not be encompassed within the scope of the invention, contingent upon specific embodiments or implementations.

[0056] When qualifiers like "substantially" or "essentially" are employed to characterize a characteristic or property, they encompass variationsrecognized by one skilled in the relevant field as not significantly altering the intended outcome or performance of the described embodiment.

[0057] The term "comprising," utilized herein, signifies inclusivity and openness, allowing for the incorporation of additional elements, features, components, process steps, sub-steps, and / or aspects as deemed suitable, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0058] Measurements and values disclosed herein are considered subject to modification by the term "about," intended to encompass deviations within a range extending approximately ±10% of the stated value, unless a different range is explicitly specified.

[0059] The present invention relates to mechanisms for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa in power transmission applications. The present invention is now described with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein FIG. 1A illustrates a schematic side view of a mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention in a first configuration, FIG. IB illustrates a schematic side cross-section view along a short axis of the mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa of FIG. 1A, FIG. 1C illustrates a schematic side view of a mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention in a second configuration, FIG. ID illustrates a schematic side view of a mechanism for converting rectilinear motionto rotary motion and vice-versa in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention in a third configuration, FIG. 2A illustrates an isometric view of the pinion in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention, FIG. 2B illustrates a schematic side view of the pinion of FIG. 2A, FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic side view of the endless rack and the pinion of FIG. 1A, FIG. 4A illustrates a schematic side view of bearing employed in the mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa of FIG. 1 A, FIG. 4B illustrates a schematic side view of a holder employed in the mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa of FIG. 1 A, FIG. 5A illustrates a schematic side view of sliding mount employed in the mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa of FIG. 1 A, and FIG. 5B illustrates a schematic side view of sliding mount with other components employed in the mechanism for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa of FIG. 1A.

[0060] A mechanism (100) that effectuates the bidirectional conversion between rectilinear and rotary motion is disclosed. At its fundamental core, the mechanism incorporates an endless rack (200), which comprises a meticulously engineered body (210) featuring an intricate slot (220). This slot exhibits a particular geometric configuration, being circumscribed by first and second longitudinal sides (230, 240) in conjunction with first and second lateral sides (250, 260).

[0061] The aforementioned sides are characterized by their distinctive toothed configurations: the first longitudinal side (230) is furnished with a first teeth set (235), while its counterpart, the second longitudinal side (240), incorporates a second teeth set (245). In a similar vein, the first lateral side (250) is equipped with a first arc teeth set (255), and the second lateral side (260) features a second arc teeth set (265), thereby establishing a comprehensive toothengagement framework.

[0062] Central to the mechanism's functionality is a precisely engineered pinion (300), which comprises a shaft (310) terminated by first and second terminal ends (312, 314). This pinion is further characterized by a set of teeth (320) that protrude from a shaft surface (320s). The pinion's dimensional parameters are meticulously calibrated such that, when positioned within the slot (220), its teeth set (320) engages exclusively with a single teeth set at any given moment, whether it be the first teeth set (235), second teeth set (245), first arc teeth set (255), or second arc teeth set (265).

[0063] The mechanism's sophisticated guidance system comprises a pair of sliding mounts (400), each incorporating a body (402) that is configured to traverse along the respective lateral surfaces (200s) of the endless rack (200). The interface between each sliding mount (400) and its corresponding lateral surface (200s) is mediated by first and second linear bearings (410, 420), facilitating precise linear translation.

[0064] Each sliding mount (400) is furnished with a circular through aperture (430) that accommodates a holder (450). The interface between these components is facilitated by a bearing (440), which is strategically positioned between the holder's outer periphery and the circular through aperture's inner periphery (430). Furthermore, each holder (450) incorporates a through aperture (460) specifically dimensioned to accommodate the respective terminal end of the shaft (310).

[0065] The mechanism's actuation is achieved through a piston (500), which may be coupled to the mechanism (100) either through direct attachment or via an intermediate connecting rod (600), thereby completing the kinematic chain necessary for motion conversion.

[0066] In a particularly implementation of the present invention, the mechanism's operational dynamics are substantively enhanced through the implementation of a dual-bearing configuration that facilitates precise multi-axis movement. The first and second linear bearings (410, 420) are interposed between each sliding mount (400) and the corresponding lateral surfaces (200s) of the endless rack (200), wherein said bearings are specifically engineered to enable controlled translational movement of the sliding mounts (400) along a predetermined linear trajectory parallel to the lateral surfaces (200s).

[0067] The afore-mentioned bearing configuration is complemented by an additional rotational bearing system, wherein a bearing (440) is precisely positioned between the outer periphery of the holder (450) and the inner peripheryof the circular through aperture (430) within each sliding mount (400). The bearing (440) is meticulously engineered to facilitate rotational movement of the holder (450) within the confines of the circular through aperture (430), thereby enabling smooth angular displacement while maintaining precise positional control.

[0068] The integration of the afore-mentioned bearing systems establishes a dual-axis movement capability, wherein the linear bearings (410, 420) facilitate precise translational motion along the lateral surfaces (200s), while the rotational bearing (440) simultaneously enables controlled angular movement of the holder (450). This orchestrated interaction of bearing systems ensures optimal kinematic behavior while minimizing frictional losses and mechanical wear.

[0069] The bearing interfaces enables smooth and controlled movement necessary for the conversion between rectilinear and rotary motion. The bearings' placement and dimensioning ensure that the mechanism maintains precise alignment and controlled motion throughout its operational cycle, thereby contributing to the overall mechanical efficiency and operational longevity of the system.

[0070] In the present embodiment, the mechanism includes a sequential engagement system wherein the pinion (300) is designed to execute a predetermined engagement sequence with multiple teeth sets during its operational cycle. The sequential engagement pattern is designed, whereby thepinion (300) systematically interfaces with the first teeth set (235), followed by the first arc teeth set (255), subsequently engaging with the second teeth set (245), and ultimately interfacing with the second arc teeth set (265).

[0071] This sequential engagement methodology is facilitated through the configuration of the pinion's teeth set (320), which extends from the shaft surface (320s) in a manner that ensures controlled and precise mesh engagement with each respective teeth set. The dimensional parameters and spatial orientation of the pinion (300) within the slot (220) are meticulously calibrated to ensure that the set of teeth (320) engages exclusively with a single teeth set at any given moment during the operational cycle.

[0072] In an exemplary embodiment, the progression of engagement follows a predetermined sequence wherein Initial engagement occurs with the first teeth set (235) along the first longitudinal side (230), then transitional engagement proceeds to the first arc teeth set (255) along the first lateral side (250), followed by subsequent engagement transitions to the second teeth set (245) along the second longitudinal side (240) and the sequence concludes with engagement with the second arc teeth set (265) along the second lateral side (260).

[0073] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the first and second arc teeth sets (255, 265) serve as intermediary engagement surfaces between the first and second teeth sets (235, 245). The arc teeth sets are specifically engineered to enable smooth and controlled transition of the pinion (300) as it traverses between the longitudinal teeth sets.

[0074] The geometrical configuration of the first arc teeth set (255) and second arc teeth set (265) is designed to provide a continuous engagement interface during the transitional phase of operation. These arc teeth sets are positioned along the first lateral side (250) and second lateral side (260) respectively, where they function as sophisticated bridging elements between the longitudinal engagement surfaces.

[0075] The transitional mechanism operates with particular precision wherein the first arc teeth set (255) facilitates the pinion's transition from the first teeth set (235) to the second teeth set (245), and the second arc teeth set (265) enables the reciprocal transition from the second teeth set (245) back to the first teeth set (235).

[0076] The afore-mentioned transitional architecture ensures uninterrupted engagement between the pinion's teeth set (320) and the rack's various teeth sets throughout the entire operational cycle. The arc teeth sets' geometry maintains optimal mesh engagement during the critical transition phases, thereby eliminating potential discontinuities or mechanical interruptions that might otherwise occur during the transition between longitudinal teeth sets.

[0077] Regarding the synchronized movement, the sliding mounts (400) are designed with temporal coordination, enabling simultaneous translational movement along opposing lateral surfaces (200s) of the endless rack (200). This synchronous motion ensures optimal mechanical stability and uniform load distribution during operation.

[0078] The holders (450) incorporate meticulously aligned through apertures (460) that collectively establish a precise coaxial support system for the shaft (310) of the pinion (300). This alignment is fundamental to maintaining optimal geometric relationships and ensuring proper mechanical function throughout the operational cycle.

[0079] The endless rack (200) exhibits a configuration that facilitates continuous reciprocating motion, enabling uninterrupted bidirectional movement throughout its operational cycle. This continuous motion capability represents a fundamental advancement over conventional reciprocating mechanisms.

[0080] In direct connection configurations, the piston (500) is engineered to impart reciprocating motion to the mechanism (100), wherein the direct mechanical coupling ensures efficient transfer of linear force and motion without intermediate elements.

[0081] When indirect connection is employed, the connecting rod (600) serves as a sophisticated mechanical intermediary, facilitating precise motion transfer between the piston (500) and the mechanism (100). This configuration enables optimal force transmission while maintaining mechanical advantage.

[0082] The pinion (300) incorporates specialized coupling provisions that enable mechanical integration with vehicular wheel systems, facilitating power transmission and motion conversion in automotive applications.

[0083] The slot (220) exhibits geometric versatility, accommodating various configurations including rectangular, square, oval, circular, elliptical, rhombic, semi-circular, and their variants with rounded edges, enabling adaptation to diverse application requirements.

[0084] The mechanism demonstrates exceptional utility integration capabilities, incorporating provisions for connection to diverse power sources or application tools, thereby expanding its functional versatility across various industrial applications.

[0085] Specifically, regarding power source integration, the mechanism exhibits compatibility with internal combustion engines, enabling direct power transmission and motion conversion in automotive and industrial applications.

[0086] The mechanism's application versatility extends to various tools including hammers, fluid compressors, displacing tools, and cutting tools, demonstrating exceptional adaptability across diverse industrial applications.

[0087] The mechanism's material composition exhibits remarkable flexibility, incorporating various engineering materials including metals: comprising iron, steel, copper, aluminum, lead, bronze, and their combinations, non-metals: including wood, glass, plastic, rubber, ceramic, and their combinations, alloys: encompassing steel alloys, copper alloys, ferroalloys, aluminum alloys, and their combinations

[0088] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention the mechanism (100) comprises a continuous track (200) having a central slot (220) characterized by opposing sides furnished with precisely engineered teeth (235, 245, 255, 265). The mechanism's operational core comprises a pinion (300) with specifically configured teeth (320) that effectuate sequential engagement with the track's tooth surfaces. The integration of mounting assemblies (400) facilitates controlled guidance of the pinion's movement along the track while simultaneously enabling rotational freedom. The mechanism's actuation is achieved through a reciprocating element (500) that may be operatively coupled either directly or through an intermediate connecting rod (600), thereby enabling bidirectional force transmission for motion conversion between rectilinear and rotary states.

[0089] In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention the mechanism (100) comprises an endless track means (200) featuring a slot means (220) with opposing sides that provide alternating tooth engagement surfaces (235, 245, 255, 265). The rotary engagement means (300) comprises a shaft means (310) terminated by portions (312, 314) and incorporates tooth means (320) extending from a shaft surface (320s), engineered for sequential mesh engagement with the aforementioned tooth engagement surfaces. The mounting means (400) integrates bearing support means (410, 420) that facilitate linear translation along the lateral surfaces (200s) of the endless track means. A sophisticated rotation enabling means incorporates aperture means (430) configured to receive holder means (450), complemented by bearing means (440)that enables rotational movement between the holder means and aperture means. The shaft support means comprises precisely aligned through apertures (460) within the holder means, specifically engineered to support the terminal portions of the shaft means. The mechanism's actuation is achieved through reciprocating means (500) that may be operatively connected either directly or through connecting means (600). This functional configuration ensures precise motion conversion while maintaining optimal mechanical efficiency throughout the operational cycle.WORKING CONFIGURATION OF THE MECHANISM (100)

[0090] The aforementioned mechanism (100) achieves efficient motion conversion through its innovative endless rack (200) design featuring a slot (220) with positioned teeth sets: first and second teeth sets (235, 245) along the longitudinal sides and first and second arc teeth sets (255, 265) along the lateral sides. The system's unique functionality centers on its eccentric mounting arrangement. Each holder (450) features an eccentrically formed through aperture (460) that receives the pinion shaft (310), while the holder itself is mounted within a circular through aperture (430) of the sliding mount (400) via a bearing (440).

[0091] The aforementioned eccentric configuration, combined with the bearing's rotational freedom, enables the pinion (300) to maintain desired mesh engagement with the rack's teeth sets throughout its operational cycle. As the piston (500) initiates reciprocating motion, either directly or through a connecting rod (600), the pinion (300) begins its sequential engagement pattern.The bearing (440) allows the holder (450) to rotate within the sliding mount's circular aperture (430), while the eccentric positioning of the through aperture (460) enables the pinion to adjust its position dynamically, ensuring consistent tooth engagement as it transitions between the different teeth sets.

[0092] The aforementioned arrangement allows the pinion to seamlessly engage with the first teeth set (235), transition through the first arc teeth set (255), engage with the second teeth set (245), and return via the second arc teeth set (265). The synchronized movement of the sliding mounts (400) along the lateral surfaces (200s), facilitated by linear bearings (410, 420), ensures smooth operation throughout this cycle.

[0093] The control of the pinion's position and movement enables the mechanism to efficiently convert between rectilinear and rotary motion, making it ideal for various applications from driving vehicle wheels to powering industrial tools and equipment.TECHNICAL AND ECONOMIC ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0094] The present invention affords the following technical and economic advantages, delineated herein below.TECHNICAL ADVANTAGES

[0095] Enhanced Mechanical Efficiency: The mechanism's design eliminates significant lateral forces typically found in traditional crankshaftmechanisms, resulting in reduced wear and improved operational efficiency during motion conversion.

[0096] Continuous Operation Capability: The mechanism achieves seamless continuous reciprocating motion through its innovative endless rack and sequential pinion engagement system, overcoming the limitations of conventional rack-and-pinion systems in continuous operation applications.

[0097] Simplified Maintenance: The design eliminates the need for complex lubrication systems, addressing a major drawback of conventional motion conversion mechanisms and significantly reducing system complexity.ECONOMIC ADVANTAGES

[0098] Reduced Maintenance Costs: By eliminating complex lubrication systems and minimizing mechanical wear, the mechanism substantially reduces routine maintenance interventions and associated labor costs.

[0099] Increased Operational Uptime: The robust design with reduced mechanical stress concentrations leads to fewer component failures, resulting in decreased system downtime and improved productivity.[000100] Versatile Application Potential: The compact and adaptable design allows integration across diverse industrial applications (from manufacturing to transportation), maximizing the mechanism's market potential and return on investment.

Claims

We claim:

1. A mechanism (100) for converting rectilinear motion to rotary motion and vice-versa, the mechanism comprising:a. an endless rack (200) having a body (210) with a slot (220), the slot defined by first and second longitudinal sides (230, 240) and first and second lateral sides (250, 260), wherein the first longitudinal side (230) comprises a first teeth set (235), the second longitudinal side (240) comprises a second teeth set (245), the first lateral side (250) comprises a first arc teeth set (255), and the second lateral side (260) comprises a second arc teeth set (265), wherein the endless rack (200) is configured to provide continuous reciprocating motion; b. a pinion (300) comprising a shaft (310) with first and second terminal ends (312, 314) and a set of teeth (320) extending from a shaft surface (320s), wherein the pinion is received in the slot (220) and sized such that the set of teeth (320) meshes with only one of the first teeth set (235), second teeth set (245), first arc teeth set (255), or second arc teeth set (265) at a time;c. a pair of sliding mounts (400) each comprising a body (402) slidably secured to and disposed on respective lateral surfaces (200s) of the endless rack (200), wherein first and second linear bearings (410, 420) are disposed between each sliding mount (400) and the respective lateral surface (200s);d. each sliding mount (400) comprising a circular through aperture (430) configured to receive a holder (450), and a bearing (440) disposed between an outer periphery of the holder (450) and an inner periphery of the circular through aperture (430);e. each holder (450) comprising a through aperture (460) configured to receive a respective terminal end of the shaft (310); andf. a piston (500) connected to the mechanism (100) directly or via a connecting rod (600).

2. The mechanism as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe first and second linear bearings (410, 420) enable linear movement of the sliding mounts (400) along the lateral surfaces (200s) of the endless rack (200); andthe bearing (440) enables rotational movement of the holder (450) within the circular through aperture (430).

3. The mechanism as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe pinion (300) is configured to engage sequentially with the first teeth set (235), first arc teeth set (255), second teeth set (245), and second arc teeth set (265) during operation; andthe first and second arc teeth sets (255, 265) enable transition of the pinion (300) between engagement with the first and second teeth sets (235, 245).

4. The mechanism as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sliding mounts (400) are configured to move synchronously along opposite lateral surfaces (200s) of the endless rack (200).

5. The mechanism as claimed in claim 1, wherein the through apertures (460) of the holders (450) are aligned to support the shaft (310) of the pinion (300).

6. The mechanism as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe piston (500) is configured to drive the mechanism (100) in a reciprocating manner when connected directly thereto; andthe connecting rod (600) is configured to transfer motion between the piston (500) and the mechanism (100) when the piston is indirectly connected to the mechanism.

7. The mechanism as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pinion (300) is configured to drive a wheel of a vehicle through mechanical coupling.

8. The mechanism as claimed in claim 1, wherein the slot (220) having a shape selected from a rectangle, square, oval, circular, elliptical, rhombus, semi-circular, rectangle with rounded edges, square with rounded edges, or combinations thereof.

9. The mechanism as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe mechanism is configured to connect to a utility, wherein the utility is a power source or application tool; and wherein the power source is an internal combustion engine; andthe application tool is selected from a hammer, fluid compressor, displacing tool, cutting tool, or combinations thereof.

10. The mechanism as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mechanism is constructed from a material selected from a metal, non-metal, alloy, or combinations thereof, wherein:a. the metal is selected from iron, steel, copper, aluminum, lead, bronze, or combinations thereof;b. the non-metal is selected from wood, glass, plastic, rubber, ceramic, or combinations thereof; andc. the alloy is selected from steel alloys, copper alloys, ferroalloys, aluminum alloys, or combinations thereof.

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