Linear Actuator Retaining Member for Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear actuators face difficulties during installation and service due to their extended position requiring additional system components to bias them back to the retracted position, leading to interference and installation challenges.
Innovation Solution
An actuator system with an actuation member that can be positioned into a retracted or extended state, utilizing a retaining member like a sun spring to maintain the retracted position and selectively release it under extension force, allowing for easier installation and service by preventing unwanted extension during these processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the actuation member is allowed to extend during installation, then the actuator can reach its operational position, but the extended position causes interference with other system components and creates installation difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining member is pre-configured to automatically engage with the actuation member during installation, preventing extension before the actuator is properly positioned. This preliminary constraint eliminates interference with other components during the installation process, while still allowing full extension once installed.
2Ease of operation
If the actuation member is constrained to remain retracted, then installation and service are simplified, but the actuator cannot perform its actuation function
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining member is designed with dynamic engagement characteristics - it maintains the actuation member in the retracted position during installation and service, but allows automatic disengagement when proper actuation forces are applied. This dynamic behavior enables the system to switch between constrained and free states based on operational conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the actuator relies on external biasing mechanisms to return to retracted position, then the actuation function is achieved, but additional system complexity and potential failure points are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the position-control function from external biasing mechanisms and integrates it directly into the actuator assembly through the retaining member. This self-contained approach eliminates the need for separate external biasing components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the actuation function.
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 enables safer and more efficient installation and service of linear actuators by ensuring the actuation member remains in a retracted position during these operations, reducing interference and facilitating smoother operation and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a retaining member structured to maintain the actuation member in the first retracted position, and to selectively release the actuation member from the first retracted position in response to an extension force
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator, comprising an actuation member positionable into a first retracted position and a second extended position, and a retaining member structured to maintain the actuation member in the first retracted position, and to selectively release the actuation member from the first retracted position in response to an extension force.