Extensible Mast Structure for Compact Sensor Elevation and Safe Collapse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional robotic devices with fixed structures for positioning payloads like sensors and output devices are bulky, expensive, and less suitable for mobile or space-constrained environments, lacking the flexibility to adjust height efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An extensible mast device using resilient strips, such as spring steel or shape memory materials, that can retract into a compact form, allowing for adjustable positioning of payloads and incorporating safety features like graceful collapse to prevent damage in collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed structure is used for positioning payloads, then the device provides stable positioning, but the device becomes bulky and unsuitable for mobile or space-constrained environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the fixed mast structure with an extensible mast that can dynamically change its length. The mast includes an extended portion that can be retracted into a housing, allowing the device to transition between a compact state for mobile environments and an extended state for stable positioning. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between needing stability and minimizing volume.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a fixed structure is used for positioning payloads, then the device maintains rigid positioning, but the device becomes expensive and less adaptable to different environments
Solution Approach 1:
The extensible mast allows the device to adapt to different environments by adjusting its length. In open environments, the mast can be extended for stable positioning. In constrained environments, it can be retracted for compactness. This dynamic capability provides both stability and adaptability, resolving the contradiction between rigid positioning and environmental versatility.
3Weight of moving object
If a resilient strip is used for mast extension, then the device achieves lightweight and compact form, but the device lacks structural strength under load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials by combining a resilient strip (such as spring steel or shape memory alloy) with a rigid housing structure. The resilient strip provides lightweight, flexible extension capability, while the rigid housing and engagement features provide structural strength. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between lightweight construction and structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The mast is segmented into multiple components: a resilient strip for extension, a housing for retraction, and engagement features for locking. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function - the strip for flexibility and weight reduction, while the housing and engagement features provide necessary strength and stability under load.
4Volume of moving object
If an extensible mast is used for compact storage, then the device reduces volume, but the device becomes more complex in mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient strip serves a dual function: it acts as both the extending mechanism and the storing mechanism. When extended, it supports the payload; when retracted, it coils within the housing. This self-service capability eliminates the need for separate motors, gears, or actuators, reducing overall mechanism complexity while achieving compact storage.
5Strength
If conventional rigid mast structures are used, then the device provides durable support, but the device causes damage in collision events
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the mast by using a resilient strip instead of a rigid structure. This allows the mast to deform elastically under collision forces, absorbing impact energy and preventing damage to both the device and surrounding objects. The resilient material maintains sufficient strength for normal operation while providing harm reduction during collisions.
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 extensible mast provides lightweight, adjustable, and safe positioning of payloads, enhancing the utility of robotic devices in various environments while reducing the risk of damage and improving safety.
Implementation Method 1
The mast includes a resilient strip, such as spring steel or shape memory materials
Implementation Method 2
The mast includes a resilient strip, such as spring steel or shape memory materials
Data Source
AI summary
An extensible mast device allows a payload to be supported at a controllable distance from a supporting device. A motor driving a flexible strip provides a force through the flexible strip to extend the mast. The extended strip may have a curved cross section that provides some rigidity. A set of telescoping sections may enclose the strip. One or more of the sections may be flexible. In the event of an impact between the extensible mast and an object, such as a user, the flexible section and the strip yield to the impact and collapse. The extensible mast may be easily reset by lifting it back to a vertical position, with the flexible strip reasserting the curved cross section and the flexible sections resuming substantially the same shape as before the impact. A robot may use the extensible mast to elevate cameras or other sensors to a higher vantage point.