Cam-Based Angular Actuator for Compact Power-Free Tilt Holding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional actuators that provide tilt functionality are physically bulky, heavy, and require continuous electrical power to maintain a position, making them unsuitable for volume-constrained applications and situations where power is not consistently available.
Innovation Solution
A compact angular actuator comprising a first section with constraint components and a second section with a wedge-shaped cam, allowing precise tilt control without electrical power, using hinges for pivoting and maintaining angular position, and facilitating electrical connectivity through flexible printed circuits or conductive traces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional actuators are used to provide tilt functionality, then tilt control is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional motor-driven mechanical actuators with a passive cam-based mechanical system. The cam profile, when rotated by any means (manual, motorized, spring-loaded), directly translates rotational motion into precise tilt angles through its geometric profile, eliminating the need for complex motors, gears, and control electronics typically required for tilt actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameter from active motor control to passive mechanical leverage. By using a cam mechanism with specific geometric parameters, the system achieves precise tilt control through mechanical advantage rather than electrical actuation, significantly reducing the mass and complexity of the actuator assembly.
2Ease of operation
If traditional actuators are used to provide tilt functionality, then tilt control is achieved, but the device occupies excessive volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional motor-driven mechanical actuators with a passive cam-based mechanical system. The cam profile, when rotated by any means (manual, motorized, spring-loaded), directly translates rotational motion into precise tilt angles through its geometric profile, eliminating the need for complex motors, gears, and control electronics typically required for tilt actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the tilt control function with the cam rotation mechanism itself. Rather than using a separate motor and transmission system, the cam's rotational movement directly produces the tilt action, combining multiple functions into a single integrated component that occupies minimal space.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional actuators are used to maintain position, then position stability is achieved, but continuous electrical power is required
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is inherently self-locking due to its geometric profile and the constraint components' contact with the cam face. Once positioned, the mechanism maintains the tilt angle through mechanical constraint without requiring continuous power input, achieving position stability through its own structural design rather than active control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional motor-driven mechanical actuators with a passive cam-based mechanical system. The cam profile, when rotated by any means (manual, motorized, spring-loaded), directly translates rotational motion into precise tilt angles through its geometric profile, eliminating the need for complex motors, gears, and control electronics typically required for tilt actuation.
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 compact angular actuator offers precise tilt control within minimal volume and low mass, maintaining position without power and enabling flexible deployment in constrained spaces, such as robotic masts and drones.
Implementation Method 1
The constraint components are arranged such that their points of contact are in a straight line. One or more hinges join the first section and the second section to one another, such that they may pivot about an axis of rotation
Implementation Method 2
One or more hinges join the first section and the second section to one another, such that they may pivot about an axis of rotation
Data Source
AI summary
A compact angular actuator allows for angular displacement between a first section and a second section. The first section comprises a cam that is circular in cross section and has a wedge-shaped face. The second section comprises two or more constraint components that are in contact with the face of the cam. A hinge joins the first section and the second section in proximity with one another. As the cam is rotated about an axis that is perpendicular to and extends through a center of the circular cross section, the position on the face that the constraint components are in contact with changes. As a result, a force is imparted between the first section and the second section, changing the angular displacement between the two. The actuator fits within a compact volume and allows for precise controlled angular displacement, while allowing that displacement to be maintained without power consumption.