Adjustable Transmission Arm for Gate Actuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing gate actuating devices require a predetermined transmission arm length based on motor ratings, making them difficult to install in spaces with nearby walls or obstacles, and are costly due to complex telescopic designs.

Innovation Solution

A transmission arm with segments that can be shortened by adjusting the position of an axis, allowing for continuous or discrete millimetric adjustments, enabling easy assembly and optimal length without compromising aesthetics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a predetermined transmission arm length is used based on motor ratings, then the motor can exert sufficient torque and the gate can be moved, but the device cannot be installed in spaces with nearby walls or obstacles

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different installation spacesVSAvoidtransmission arm length
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The transmission arm incorporates a telescopic mechanism with two semi-arms that can slide relative to each other, transforming the fixed-length arm into a dynamically adjustable structure. This allows the arm length to vary between minimum and maximum positions, enabling installation in different spatial configurations while maintaining the motor's torque capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The transmission arm is divided into two separate semi-arms (first semi-arm and second semi-arm) that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for strength while the combined structure provides adjustable length, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and length.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a telescopic transmission arm is used to adjust arm length, then adaptability to different spaces is improved, but the construction becomes complex and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of arm lengthVSAvoidconstruction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The telescopic mechanism uses a simple sliding connection between two semi-arms with a locking system, avoiding complex mechanical structures. The dynamic adjustment capability is achieved through straightforward relative movement and locking/unlocking operations, maintaining construction simplicity while providing length adjustability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

By dividing the arm into two semi-arms with a simple sliding interface, the design achieves telescopic functionality without requiring complex mechanisms. Each semi-arm can be independently manufactured and assembled, reducing overall construction complexity while enabling length adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the transmission arm is made telescopic with sliding segments, then length adjustment is possible, but manufacturing tolerances and assembly precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelength adjustment capabilityVSAvoidtolerance requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The sliding connection between semi-arms incorporates a locking mechanism that maintains positional stability once adjusted. This dynamic design allows for easy adjustment while the locking system ensures precise positioning, reducing the need for extremely tight manufacturing tolerances during assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The divided semi-arm structure with sliding connection allows for modular manufacturing and assembly. The interface between semi-arms is designed to accommodate reasonable tolerances while maintaining functional integrity, reducing the stringency of precision requirements compared to monolithic designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2185782B1Transmission arm
Publication Date: 2014.10.08 NICE SPA
  • EP2185782B1 patent drawingFigure 1~7
  • EP2185782B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

A transmission arm for actuating devices of gates or doors is described, comprising a first rigid segment (20) connectable to a motor (26), a second rigid segment (22) rotatably pivoted at one end to the first segment and at the other end to the gate or door (GT). For easing the installation and the fitting to different actuating devices, the arm comprises means (30; 60) for longitudinally adjusting inside the first and/ or second segment the position of a relevant rotation axis (X) thereof. A segment, once the length thereof has been adjusted, can be cut.