Actuator Emergency Lowering Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing emergency lowering mechanisms in linear actuators are complex and unreliable, particularly when integrated with self-locking spindles, as they require multiple operations to lower loads safely and efficiently during power failures.
Innovation Solution
A simplified emergency lowering mechanism utilizing a screw spring as a coupling spring seated around a cylindrical part, where one end is secured in the operating grip and the other in the driving rod, allowing manual torque application to screw the driving rod inward on the spindle, eliminating the need for a claw coupling and ensuring reliable operation with both self-locking and non-self-locking spindles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a claw coupling with brake spring is used to secure the driving rod, then the driving rod can be secured against rotation in normal operation, but the structure becomes complex and requires multiple operations to lower the load during emergency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex claw coupling mechanism from the emergency lowering system. Instead of using a claw coupling with brake spring that requires multiple operations, the invention uses a simple pin that can be quickly removed to release the driving rod, thereby simplifying the device structure while maintaining the ability to secure the driving rod during normal operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the emergency lowering function from the normal operation securing mechanism. By using a separate, simple pin for emergency release rather than a complex integrated claw coupling system, the design allows for independent optimization of each function - reliable securing during normal operation and simple, quick emergency release
2Device complexity
If the driving rod is released by disconnecting a pin for manual turning, then the structure is simplified, but the operation becomes unreliable when integrated with self-locking spindles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coupling element as an intermediary between the pin and the driving rod. This coupling element ensures reliable torque transmission during manual operation while working seamlessly with both self-locking and non-self-locking spindles, thereby maintaining operational reliability without increasing device complexity
3Productivity
If the load pushes the driving rod back during emergency lowering, then the mechanism can lower the load, but it only operates with non-self-locking spindles and cannot handle self-locking spindles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the emergency lowering mechanism to be universal and compatible with both self-locking and non-self-locking spindles. The coupling element and pin mechanism can handle both types of spindles effectively, allowing the actuator to maintain emergency lowering capability regardless of the spindle type installed, thereby achieving multi-functionality and broad adaptability
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides a reliable and simplified method for emergency lowering, allowing for efficient manual operation of linear actuators during power failures, ensuring safe and controlled load lowering without overloading the spring, and functioning seamlessly with both self-locking and non-self-locking spindles.
Implementation Method 1
a screw spring as a coupling spring seated tightly around the cylindrical part connected with the mounting bracket. One end of the spring is secured with a bent end in the operating grip, and the other end is secured in the cylindrical part connected with the driving rod
Data Source
AI summary
Actuator of the type where a driving rod (11) is extended by a nut (10) on a driven spindle. A manually operated emergency lowering device (14) for the driving rod (11) is mounted between the driving rod (11) and a mounting bracket (16) at the end thereof. The emergency lowering device (14) comprises a first cylindrical part (15) connected with the mounting bracket (16) and a second cylindrical part (17) connected with the driving rod (11). The two cylindrical parts are coupled together by a screw spring (21). The spring is released by an operating grip (19) constructed as a bushing in which the one end (22) of the spring (21) is secured. The other end (23) of the spring (21) is secured in the cylindrical part (17) connected with the driving rod (11). Rotation of the bushing causes the spring (21) to be released, whereby the driving rod (11) may be screwed back by the manually applied torque.