Blind Actuator Coupling via Intermediary Cover Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current latch and actuator coupling systems face challenges in tight spaces due to the need for visual alignment, which is problematic in confined packaging, and coverplates obstruct access while providing protection, leading to difficulties in assembly and potential contamination.
Innovation Solution
An actuation system with a housing, moveable actuator arm, and a cable apparatus on a cover plate with specific connection features that align and engage only when corresponding dimensions or shapes match, allowing for blind assembly and secure coupling without direct line of sight or physical access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If visual alignment is used for coupling actuator and latch, then connection precision is improved, but ease of assembly deteriorates in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
A cover plate is introduced as an intermediary component between the actuator and latch. The cover plate includes alignment features (such as alignment pins or positioning protrusions) that automatically align the coupling interfaces during assembly, eliminating the need for direct visual alignment between the actuator and latch while ensuring precise connection. This intermediary component mediates the assembly process in confined spaces.
2Reliability
If cover plate is used to protect against environmental contamination, then reliability is improved, but ease of assembly deteriorates due to blocked access
Solution Approach 1:
The cover plate is designed with pre-integrated coupling features and alignment elements that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. The cover plate includes pre-positioned openings, alignment pins, and coupling interfaces that automatically guide the assembly process. This preliminary preparation allows the cover plate to be installed as a complete protective assembly rather than requiring disassembly or complex manipulation during installation, thus maintaining protection while facilitating assembly.
3Ease of operation
If blind coupling is implemented without visual access, then ease of assembly is improved in tight spaces, but manufacturing precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is designed to self-align and self-verify during assembly. The cover plate includes automatic alignment features such as precision-machined positioning protrusions, tapered guide surfaces, or interference-fit elements that automatically adjust and align the actuator and latch interfaces without requiring external visual inspection. The design allows the assembly process to self-correct minor misalignments through the geometric constraints of the coupling features, ensuring precision while maintaining ease of assembly in confined spaces.
Data Source
AI summary
An actuation system for coupling with a latch, the system comprising: a housing having a receptacle, the housing containing an actuator arm moveable within an interior of the housing, the actuator arm having a first connection feature; a cover plate for installing in the receptacle, the cover plate for aligning the first connection feature with a second connection feature; a cable apparatus mounted on the cover plate, the cable apparatus having the second connection feature such that the second connection is suitable for engagement with the first connection feature; wherein insertion of the cover plate in the receptacle causes an operative coupling of the cable apparatus with the actuator arm by aligning and mating the first connection feature with the second connection feature.