Actuator Assembly Worm Gear Torque Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuator assemblies for linkages, such as cables, face challenges in efficiently transmitting torque and reversing direction without external power, leading to inefficiencies and potential noise or vibration issues.
Innovation Solution
The actuator assembly incorporates a worm gear, a first gear unit with a pinion and drive gear, and a second gear unit, along with a biasing member, where the worm gear and first gear unit transmit torque to rotate the second gear unit, and the biasing member reverses the rotation when torque is not provided, ensuring smooth operation and reduced noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a worm gear and gear units are used to transmit torque, then torque transmission efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the worm gear with two gear units (first gear unit with pinion and drive gear, second gear unit with output gear) into a single integrated torque transmission system. The worm gear engages the drive gear which is integrally connected to the pinion, creating a merged mechanism that transmits torque from the actuator through multiple stages to the output shaft, improving torque multiplication while maintaining a compact unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested gear arrangement where the pinion gear is positioned within the drive gear, and the output gear is positioned within the pinion gear. This nested configuration allows multiple gear units to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, reducing the overall footprint of the torque transmission system while maintaining efficient torque transmission through sequential gear engagement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a biasing member is added to reverse rotation direction, then directional reversal capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member (spring) is configured to automatically reverse the rotation direction of the output shaft when the actuator is not providing torque. The spring stores energy during actuator-driven rotation and releases it to rotate the output shaft in the opposite direction, enabling self-powered bidirectional operation without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member enables periodic alternation between forward and reverse rotation of the output shaft. During actuator operation, the output shaft rotates in one direction; when actuator torque is removed, the biasing member reverses the rotation direction, creating a periodic bidirectional motion pattern that enhances the system's adaptability for applications requiring repeated directional changes.
3Power
If multiple gear units are used for torque transmission, then torque transmission capability is improved, but noise and vibration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediate damping elements and precision bearing supports as mediators between the gear units. These intermediaries absorb and dissipate vibration energy generated during gear meshing, reduce noise transmission through the housing, and minimize harmful vibrations while maintaining efficient torque transmission through the multiple gear stages.
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 configuration enables efficient torque transmission and directional reversal without external power, minimizing noise and vibration, thereby enhancing the actuator assembly's performance and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing member may be at least partially received in the pocket. The worm gear and the first gear unit may transmit torque from the actuator to rotate the second gear unit from a first position to a second position. The biasing member may actuate the second gear unit from the second position to the first position when torque is not provided by the actuator.
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator assembly having an actuator, a worm gear, a first gear unit, a second gear unit, and a biasing member. The actuator may rotate the worm gear, first gear unit, and second gear unit in first rotational directions while the biasing member may rotate the worm gear, first gear unit, and second gear unit in second rotational directions.