Adaptive Motor Plug Assembly for Screen Tube Retrofitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motorized screen systems are limited to specific tube dimensions, lacking versatility for retrofitting various screen types with different dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A set of plugs with adaptive outer dimensions, featuring engaging elements that can adjust to the inner diameter of the screen tube, including drive, end, and crown plugs, utilizing movable ribs and inserts with spring-actuated mechanisms for diameter adaptation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a motorized control system is designed for specific tube dimensions, then the system provides precise control for that specific application, but the system lacks versatility and cannot be used for retrofitting various screen types with different dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The plug incorporates movable engaging elements (ribs) that can dynamically adjust their position between retracted and extended states. This dynamic mechanism allows the plug's outer diameter to adapt to different tube inner diameters, enabling universal compatibility while maintaining a relatively simple base structure that doesn't require complete redesign for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug design enables change in its effective outer diameter parameter through the movement of engaging elements. By varying the extension state of these elements, the plug can match different tube dimensions, transforming a single-component solution into a multi-parameter adaptive system that resolves the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If engaging elements are made movable to adapt to different tube diameters, then the plug achieves stepless adaptation and universal compatibility, but the plug structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The plug is segmented into a base part and movable engaging elements (ribs) that can independently move relative to each other. This segmentation allows the engaging elements to be actuated separately, enabling stepless adaptation to different diameters while keeping the base structure simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The introducing member acts as an intermediary that transmits force to move the engaging elements between retracted and extended positions. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the overall structure by providing a single actuation point that controls the complex movement of multiple engaging elements, reducing the operational complexity despite the enhanced adaptability.
3Reliability
If the plug is designed with a fixed outer diameter, then the manufacturing and installation process is simple, but the plug cannot securely attach to tubes with irregular or varying inner surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging elements transition from a static fixed-diameter design to a dynamic adjustable design. When actuated, these elements extend to engage with irregularities on the tube's inner surface, providing secure attachment. The dynamic nature allows the system to adapt to various surface conditions while maintaining ease of installation through a single actuation action.
Solution Approach 2:
Rather than changing the entire plug structure, only the local engaging elements (ribs) are made movable. This localized quality change allows the plug to securely engage with specific features on the tube surface (seams, edges, irregularities) while keeping the overall installation process simple and the base structure unchanged.
4Reliability
If multiple engaging elements are used to adapt to irregular surfaces, then the plug achieves better grip and universal fit, but the number of components and adjustment mechanisms increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging mechanism is segmented into multiple independent ribs that can move individually or collectively. This segmentation allows each rib to engage with different features on the tube surface, providing comprehensive grip on irregular surfaces while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that doesn't require complex coordination mechanisms for each element.
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
Enables universal motorized control for a wide range of screen tubes, facilitating easy retrofitting and secure attachment to irregular surfaces, enhancing compatibility and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
the pushing means further comprise pretensioning means, such as a spring
Implementation Method 2
engaging elements for engaging the inner surface of the tube
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an assembly (1) of a motor (2) for a tube (101) of a screen and a set of plugs for engaging an inner surface of the tube. The set of plugs comprises a drive plug (10) for driving the tube, which drive plug is arranged to be connected to a drive shaft (3) of the motor. The set of plugs comprises a crown plug (30), which crown plug is arranged to be connected to an outer end of the motor for forming a first bearing at one end of the tube. The set of plugs comprises an end plug (20) arranged to be inserted into the tube at an opposite outer end of the tube for forming a second bearing, wherein each plug is provided with adapter means for adapting the outer diameter of the plug to the inner diameter of the tube.