Cable Accumulator With Independent Inputs for Unified Output Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines, such as lawn mowers, face challenges in efficiently accumulating and transmitting motion between multiple input and output systems, requiring a mechanism to effectively manage and convert inputs into appropriate outputs.
Innovation Solution
A cable accumulator system comprising a bracket with a carrier member that slides between input and output ends, featuring connecting members that actuate an output cable upon input cable activation, allowing independent sliding and maintaining tension in non-actuated cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If multiple input cables are connected to a single output cable through a rigid coupling mechanism, then the force transmission is efficient, but the system cannot accommodate independent movement of individual input cables
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid coupling mechanism is segmented into multiple independent connecting members (first connecting member, second connecting member, etc.) that can move independently along the carrier member. Each connecting member is associated with a specific input cable, allowing independent movement while still contributing to the collective actuation of the output cable through the carrier member's sliding motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier member acts as an intermediary between the multiple input cables and the single output cable. It receives independent movements from various connecting members and converts them into a unified sliding motion that actuates the output cable, thereby mediating between the segmented input movements and the integrated output action.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a cable accumulator mechanism is added to manage multiple input cables, then the motion accumulation and distribution capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a support structure for multiple connecting members, provides a sliding mechanism for motion transmission, and functions as a force accumulation device that converts independent connecting member movements into collective output cable actuation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of motion transmission, force accumulation, and cable management into a single integrated carrier member structure. The connecting members are combined with the carrier member's sliding mechanism, eliminating the need for separate complex mechanisms for each function and thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
3Force
If the connecting members are rigidly fixed to the carrier member, then the force transmission is direct and efficient, but the input cables cannot move independently when not actuated
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting members are designed with dynamic characteristics, allowing them to slide independently along the carrier member when not actuated. This dynamic capability enables each input cable to move freely without being constrained by the carrier member, while still being able to transmit force effectively when actuated by sliding the connecting member along the carrier member's length.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable accumulator for a plurality of input cables and at least one output cable includes a bracket and a carrier member slidably coupled with the bracket. The carrier member includes a frame having a first end and a second end. The second end of the frame is coupled to the at least one output cable. A plurality of connecting members are slidably coupled with a pin member. The plurality of connecting members slide relative to the pin member independently of each other. Actuation of any one of the input cables causes the respective connecting member to pull the pin member to slide the carrier member relative to the bracket and to actuate the at least one output cable. Further, the respective connecting members coupled to non-actuated input cables slide relative to the pin member in response to actuation of any one of the plurality of input cables.