Cable-Driven Linear Motion Mechanism for Automatic Drawer Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear motion mechanisms require external forces to switch states, leading to complex structures, large space occupation, high costs, and inconvenient assembly and disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A linear motion mechanism that operates automatically by adding a rotating wheel, a rotating driving member, and a pulley system, including fixed and movable pulleys, allowing for compact design, simple structure, and low preparation costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a linear motion mechanism uses external force to switch states, then the structure becomes complex and occupies large space, but the mechanism can reliably switch between extended and retracted positions
Solution Approach 1:
The linear motion mechanism uses its own moving components (drawer body, sliding rails, pulleys) to generate the force needed for state switching. When the drawer body moves along the guiding rail, it automatically drives the pulley system to wind or release the flexible cable, creating a self-sustaining motion mechanism that eliminates the need for external actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism transitions from a static external force application system to a dynamic self-driven system. The flexible cable acts as a dynamic energy storage and transmission element that automatically adjusts its tension and winding state based on the drawer body's position, enabling automatic state switching without external intervention.
2Extent of automation
If additional special members are added to achieve automatic state switching, then the mechanism can switch automatically, but the space occupation increases, structure becomes complex, and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cable serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a connection element between the pulley and drawer body, an energy storage element for automatic state switching, a guiding element for motion control, and a force transmission medium. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate actuators, sensors, and control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible cable (as a flexible element) replaces rigid mechanical linkages and external actuators. Its flexibility allows it to adapt to different positions and configurations automatically, enabling automatic state switching with minimal additional components while maintaining simplicity.
3Extent of automation
If a complex linear motion mechanism is used, then automatic state switching is achieved, but the assembly and disassembly become inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The linear motion mechanism is divided into modular components: the guiding rail assembly, the sliding rail assembly, the pulley assembly, and the flexible cable. Each module can be independently manufactured, tested, and assembled. The flexible cable can be easily installed or removed by connecting and disconnecting its ends from the pulley and drawer body, facilitating convenient assembly and disassembly.
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
The mechanism achieves automatic state switching with a small space occupation, simple structure, and low costs, while allowing for convenient assembly and disassembly, enhancing applicability across various products.
Implementation Method 1
a first fixed pulley, installed on the installation member; and a first-stage sliding rail, configured to slide relative to the guiding rail, wherein the flexible cable wraps the first fixed pulley
Data Source
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AI summary
A linear motion mechanism, a drawer assembly, and a storage cabinet, relating to the technical field of linear motion. The linear motion mechanism comprises a rotating wheel (1) around which a flexible cable (2) is wound, the flexible cable (2) being suitable for moving along with rotation of the rotating wheel (1), and the flexible cable (2) comprising flexible cable sections located on the two sides of the rotating wheel (1); a rotation driving member which is connected to the rotating wheel (1) and suitable for driving the rotating wheel (1) to rotate; a mounting member (3), the mounting member (3) being provided with a guide rail (301), a first fixed pulley (6) being mounted on the mounting member (3); and a first-stage sliding rail (4) which is suitable for sliding relative to the guide rail (301). The flexible cable (2) bypasses the first fixed pulley (6), and the flexible cable sections, located on the two sides of the rotating wheel (1), of the flexible cable (2) are connected to the first-stage sliding rail (4). According to the linear motion mechanism, in order to realize automatic motion, only the rotating wheel (1), the rotation driving member, and the pulley need to be additionally arranged, such that the linear motion mechanism is small in occupied space and simple in structure, and the manufacturing costs of the linear motion mechanism do not need to be greatly improved. In addition, because only the rotating wheel (1), the rotation driving member, and the pulley are disassembled and assembled, disassembling and assembling are convenient.