Flexible-Strand Multilinear Actuator for Rigid Multi-Directional Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear actuators are inadequate due to slowness, bulkiness, and limited mechanical characteristics, particularly in applications requiring bi-directional force transmission and synchronization across multiple axes.
Innovation Solution
A multilinear actuator design featuring two complementary strands made of flexible synthetic material with evenly spaced studs and notches, allowing for secure connection and independent movement in multiple directions, along with a driving mechanism that includes toothings and guide pinions for precise control and high torque transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If hydraulic actuators are used, then force transmission capability is improved, but speed is reduced and longitudinal bulk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is segmented into multiple independent straight sections connected by curved regions, allowing each section to operate independently and simultaneously, enabling multi-directional force transmission while maintaining compact dimensions and high speed response
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator employs flexible strands that can dynamically bend and deform in curved regions, transitioning between rigid straight sections and flexible curved sections during operation, enabling both high-speed movement and effective force transmission
2Force
If hydraulic actuators are used, then force transmission capability is improved, but longitudinal bulk increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple straight sections are nested within a compact polyhedral framework, with curved regions allowing the sections to fold and unfold, achieving extended force transmission capability within minimal longitudinal space
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator transitions from linear extension to multi-dimensional polyhedral configuration, utilizing spatial folding and unfolding movements to achieve force transmission in multiple directions without increasing longitudinal bulk
3Strength
If electric screw jack actuators are used, then mechanical characteristics are improved, but speed is reduced and longitudinal bulk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional screw jack mechanism is replaced with a flexible strand system driven by rotational actuators, eliminating the slow and bulky screw mechanism while maintaining mechanical strength through the rigid straight sections and their interconnections
4Length of stationary object
If push chains are used, then longitudinal bulk is reduced, but the ability to transmit forces in multiple directions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Each straight section can function independently to transmit forces in different directions, and the sections can be selectively activated based on application requirements, providing universal multi-directional force transmission capability within a compact structure
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator dynamically reconfigures its structure by folding and unfolding the polyhedral sections, transitioning between compact and extended configurations, and enabling force transmission along different axes as needed
5Adaptability or versatility
If multiple distinct actuators are used for distinct axes, then multi-directional force transmission is achieved, but synchronization complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple actuating functions are merged into a single integrated actuator device, where multiple straight sections share common support structures and control mechanisms, reducing synchronization complexity while maintaining multi-directional force transmission capability
Data Source
AI summary
A multilinear actuator transmits a force in several directions, and includes complementary actuating strands made of flexible material and provided on a first face with spaced studs, the actuating strands being located opposite each other, the studs meshing with one another, and transverse faces of one stud bear against respective rear and front transverse faces of adjacent studs of the other actuating strand, defining a straight section in which the two actuating strands are rigidly connected, so that the straight section behaves like a rigid bar, said actuating strands including on an outer face, regularly spaced teeth, the actuator including one driving member per actuating strand, meshing with the teeth of the second face of one of said actuating strands to translate said actuating strand, the actuator including a straight section and a straight section in which the actuating strands are meshed, and a curved region located between the straight sections in which the actuating strands are spaced apart.