U-Shaped Actuator Support with 360° Rotation and Quick Release

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing actuator support devices in home automation installations face challenges with complex installation, configuration, and limited adjustability due to axial or radial mounting constraints, particularly in accessing repair and adjustment mechanisms, which require multiple brackets and drilling holes.

Innovation Solution

A U-shaped support device with integrated guide elements and a closure mechanism allows for easy installation and adjustment of the actuator head, enabling 360° orientation and access to emergency controls and power supply cables, while being securely fixed to a building structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If axial mounting is used to simplify orientation modification, then ease of operation is improved, but axial strength constraints worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveorientation modificationVSAvoidaxial strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is divided into two independent parts: the support device mounted on the structure and the actuator head that can be axially mounted on the support. This segmentation allows the support to bear structural loads while the actuator head provides operational flexibility for orientation modification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support device acts as an intermediary between the building structure and the actuator head. It transfers and distributes loads from the axially mounted actuator to the structure, resolving the conflict between axial mounting simplicity and axial strength requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If repair and adjustment maneuvers are required on actuator heads, then reliability is improved, but device complexity worsens due to multiple brackets and drilling requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess to repair and adjustment meansVSAvoidmultiple brackets and drilling
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support device is designed as a universal mounting solution that accommodates actuators in multiple orientations and positions. The adjustable arms and positioning mechanisms allow the same support device to serve various installation configurations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized brackets.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The support device incorporates adjustable and movable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration during installation and maintenance. The arms can be positioned at different angles and locations, providing flexible access to repair and adjustment means without requiring fixed, complex mounting structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If the actuator is fixed directly on the building without support, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation worsens due to drilling holes on demand

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport structureVSAvoidinstallation flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The support device is pre-configured with adjustable arms and positioning mechanisms before installation. This preliminary preparation allows installers to quickly adapt the support to different actuator positions and orientations without requiring complex on-site drilling and customization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustable support device enables installers to self-configure the mounting system for different installation scenarios without requiring additional specialized components or complex procedures. The device serves itself by providing inherent adaptability to various mounting requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2628885B1Support for the head of an electric actuator for a movable element
Publication Date: 2018.05.30 SIMU
  • EP2628885B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2628885B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2628885B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

Device (2) for supporting a head (30) of an electromechanical actuator (3) for driving a movable closing, sun protection, blackout or screen element, comprising a U-shaped body (20) including a first slide element (21) intended to cooperate with a second slide element (31) provided on the head, the device including a closing element (22), movable between a first locking position of the head in the support device and a second position allowing the head to be removed from the support device, the body including a hinge element (4, 5) between the closing element and the body.