Bowden Cable Actuator Layout for Shallow Installation Space
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Bowden cable arrangements for actuating drain valves require a deep installation space, making them inefficient in various installation situations.
Innovation Solution
A Bowden cable arrangement that transmits movement from a first Bowden cable to a second Bowden cable via a pivotable transmission lever, allowing the second cable to be positioned consistently while adjusting the length of the first cable to fit different installation spaces, and includes a compact Bowden cable actuator with a pivot lever and plunger mechanism for efficient actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a direct actuation mechanism is used where the actuating lever acts directly on the Bowden cable, then the structure is simple, but a comparatively deep installation space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transmission lever with multiple lever arms that changes the spatial arrangement of components. Instead of direct linear actuation, the transmission lever creates a multi-dimensional arrangement where the first lever arm receives actuation, the second lever arm transmits to the Bowden cable, and the third lever arm provides alternative actuation paths, thereby reducing the depth required in the primary actuation direction
2Adaptability or versatility
If the second Bowden cable is positioned at a fixed location relative to the drain valve, then installation consistency is improved, but the first Bowden cable must be adjusted for different installation situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the system partially adjustable by allowing the first Bowden cable length to be modified according to specific installation situations, while keeping the second Bowden cable and transmission element standardized. This dynamic approach allows the same transmission mechanism to adapt to different spatial requirements without redesigning the entire system
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 reliable operation in various installation scenarios by allowing the second Bowden cable to maintain a consistent position relative to the drain valve, with only the first cable's length needing adjustment, and achieves a more compact actuator structure.
Implementation Method 1
a transmission element with a pivotable transmission lever, which transmission lever is connected to the first Bowden cable with a first lever arm and is connected to the second Bowden cable with a second lever arm, the transmission lever pivoting when the actuator is actuated
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A Bowden cable actuator (1) for a Bowden cable (2a, 2b, 2c) with a dimensionally stable housing (3) and a pull cable (4) mounted therein comprises a support element (5), a pivot lever (6) pivotably mounted on the support element (5) and pivotable by a user, and a plunger (8) mounted in a longitudinal guide (7) on the support element (5) with a connection point (9) to which the pull cable (4) of the Bowden cable (2a, 2b, 2c) is attached, and a pivot point (10) to which the pivot lever (6) is pivoted, wherein the plunger (8) is movable in the longitudinal guide (7) along a longitudinal direction (L), and wherein the pivot lever (6) is connected via the pivot point (10) of the plunger (8) such that the plunger (8) pivots in the longitudinal direction (L) is movable and thus moves the pull rope (4) accordingly.