Automatically Locking Linear Actuator with Integrated Rotary Lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional linear actuators require separate lock mechanisms and actuation systems, increasing complexity and cost due to the need for dedicated control devices and wiring/hydraulic tubing for locking and unlocking functions.
Innovation Solution
An automatically locking actuator design featuring a rotatable drive screw, nut assembly, rotary lock with key assemblies, and a lost motion connector that allows initial rotation of the rotary lock to unlock the actuator before axial movement, eliminating the need for a separate lock driver by integrating locking and unlocking within the actuator's operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate lock mechanism and actuation system are used, then the locking and unlocking functions are reliable, but the device complexity and cost increase due to dedicated control devices and wiring/hydraulic tubing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking mechanism and the drive mechanism into a single integrated system. The lock sleeve is mechanically coupled to the drive screw and nut assembly, allowing the drive mechanism to automatically perform the locking function during retraction without requiring a separate lock actuator. This merging eliminates dedicated control devices and reduces wiring/hydraulic tubing while maintaining reliable locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides both the driving force for ram movement and the automatic locking action. The lock sleeve acts as a universal component that engages with both the drive mechanism and the ram, performing both locking and positioning functions simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components.
2Ease of operation
If a separate lock driver actuator is used, then the locking control is precise, but the weight and size of the actuator increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the lock driver functionality into the existing drive mechanism. The lock sleeve is integrated with the drive screw and nut assembly, eliminating the need for a separate lock driver actuator. The drive mechanism itself provides the precise control needed for locking by controlling when and how the lock sleeve engages with the ram during retraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the separate lock driver actuator from the system entirely, removing unnecessary weight and size. The locking function is achieved through the existing drive components working in coordination, specifically the lock sleeve that is mechanically linked to the drive mechanism rather than requiring an independent actuator.
3Reliability
If a separate lock driver actuator is used, then the locking function is independent, but the number of parts and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking function with the drive mechanism, eliminating the need for a separate lock driver actuator and its associated components. The lock sleeve is integrated into the drive assembly, sharing mechanical linkages with the drive screw and nut. This reduces the total number of parts while maintaining independent locking capability through the mechanical coupling between drive and lock components.
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 design reduces the weight and size of the actuator, simplifies control, and allows for self-locking and unlocking, minimizing the number of parts required and enhancing operational efficiency by integrating locking and unlocking functions within the actuator's mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a rotatable drive screw operably coupled to the first end connector, a nut assembly threadably mounted on the drive screw, a second end connector operably coupled to the nut assembly
Implementation Method 2
a lost motion connector rotationally coupling the nut assembly to the rotary lock such that rotation of the drive screw results in an initial rotation of the nut assembly and rotor to move the key assembly between the extended and retracted positions prior to axial movement of the nut assembly along the drive screw
Implementation Method 3
a rotary lock comprising a rotor and at least one key assembly that moves between extended and retracted positions in response to rotation of the rotor
Data Source
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AI summary
An automatically locking actuator (10) includes a first end connector (12), a rotatable drive screw (16) operably coupled to the first end connector (12), a nut assembly (18) threadably mounted on the drive screw (16), a second end connector (14) operably coupled to the nut assembly (18) and a rotary lock (20) having a rotor (22) and where the actuator (10) moves between extended and retracted positions in response to rotation of the rotor (22).