Actuator Belt With Embedded Inlay Elements

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing metal chain actuator systems are cumbersome due to their weight and rigidity, making them difficult to handle and expensive to produce, with limited application versatility.

Innovation Solution

A belt system comprising link elements connected by a bridge member, with embedded flat-shaped inlay elements of flexible material, allowing the belt to be flexible but stiffening when rolled together for use in actuator systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If metal chains are used in actuator systems, then strength and durability are improved, but weight and rigidity increase making them difficult to handle

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovestrengthVSAvoidweight
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the material parameters from metal to plastic, fundamentally altering the density and weight characteristics while maintaining the chain structure functionality. This allows the belt to achieve sufficient strength for actuator applications while dramatically reducing weight for easier handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite construction by embedding reinforcing elements (such as fabric layers or stiffening ribs) within the plastic belt structure. This creates a composite material system that combines the low weight and corrosion resistance of plastic with the structural strength needed for actuator applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Strength

If metal chains are used in actuator systems, then load-bearing capacity is improved, but production cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload-bearing capacityVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the material parameters from metal to plastic, fundamentally altering the density and weight characteristics while maintaining the chain structure functionality. This allows the belt to achieve sufficient strength for actuator applications while dramatically reducing weight for easier handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite construction by embedding reinforcing elements (such as fabric layers or stiffening ribs) within the plastic belt structure. This creates a composite material system that combines the low weight and corrosion resistance of plastic with the structural strength needed for actuator applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Stability of the object's composition

If metal chains are used in actuator systems, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to different applications decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the belt with universal characteristics by using plastic material that can be easily molded into different configurations, embedded with various reinforcing patterns, and adapted to different actuator applications. The same basic belt structure can serve multiple functions across different technical fields.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite construction by embedding reinforcing elements (such as fabric layers or stiffening ribs) within the plastic belt structure. This creates a composite material system that combines the low weight and corrosion resistance of plastic with the structural strength needed for actuator applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

4Ease of operation

If the belt is made flexible with inlay elements, then ease of handling is improved, but stiffness when rolled together decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of handlingVSAvoidstiffness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the belt's mechanical properties changeable - flexible during installation and handling, but stiff when in use. The inlay elements provide structural support that activates when the belt is rolled around the actuator drum, creating the necessary tension and stability for force transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by embedding inlay elements at specific locations within the belt structure where reinforcement is needed. The inlay elements are positioned to provide localized stiffness in the connecting bridge members and link elements while maintaining overall belt flexibility for handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS20250035186A1Belt and Actuator Belt System
Publication Date: 2025.01.30 ABB E-MOBILITY BV
  • US20250035186A1 patent drawing
  • US20250035186A1 patent drawing
  • US20250035186A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A belt includes a plurality of elements connected to each other having a first link element and at least a second link element connected to each other by a connecting bridge member; wherein each of the link elements has a body from which a first bump element and opposite to the first bump element a second bump element elevates; wherein both bump elements are configured in a tooth-like shape; and at least a flat-shaped inlay element of a flexible material that is embedded inside the belt in the first link element and the connecting bridge member.