Foldable Deployable Panel Twin-Action Pivoting Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large panels on objects, such as aircraft and rockets, pose challenges in storage and deployment due to their size and maneuverability, as existing folding mechanisms either shorten the wing span or require significant space when folded.
Innovation Solution
A foldable deployable panel system using a pivotal attachment with a spring mechanism, allowing the panel to be folded in a twin-action sequence along the body and then deployed by reversing this sequence, with support plates and a locking mechanism to maintain the deployed position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If the panel is made large to increase footprint and maneuverability, then the maneuverability and gliding abilities are improved, but the storage and transportation become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The panel is divided into multiple segments that can be folded relative to each other. The first segment is pivotally connected to the body, and the second segment is pivotally connected to the first segment, allowing the panel to be folded into a compact configuration for storage while maintaining full area when deployed for maneuverability.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel segments are designed to nest within each other when folded, with the second segment folding over the first segment and the third segment folding over the second segment. This nesting arrangement minimizes the storage footprint while preserving the full panel area when deployed.
2Volume of moving object
If the panel is folded to reduce storage footprint, then the storage footprint is reduced, but the deployment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Spring mechanisms are pre-loaded during the folding process to automatically provide deployment force. When deployment is initiated by releasing the locking mechanism, the pre-loaded springs automatically drive the segments through the deployment sequence without requiring complex active control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding and deployment mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the use of spring mechanisms and gravity. The springs automatically engage and disengage during folding and deployment, and the locking mechanism automatically locks into place when the panel reaches the deployed position, eliminating the need for complex motorized control systems.
3Volume of moving object
If the panel is made deployable to reduce storage space, then the storage footprint is reduced, but the deployment time and stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Spring mechanisms are pre-loaded during the folded configuration to store potential energy. When deployment is initiated, this stored energy is rapidly converted to kinetic energy, driving the segments through the deployment sequence quickly and ensuring stable positioning when the locking mechanism engages.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel transitions from a static folded configuration to a dynamic deployment process driven by spring force and gravity. The mechanism allows controlled motion through the deployment sequence, with the locking mechanism providing stable positioning once the deployed configuration is reached, minimizing deployment time while ensuring stability.
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
This system reduces storage footprint and enables swift, efficient deployment of panels, such as wings, solar panels, and antennas, by minimizing space requirements and ensuring stable deployment.
Implementation Method 1
A foldable deployable panel system using a pivotal attachment with a spring mechanism, allowing the panel to be folded in a twin-action sequence along the body and then deployed by reversing this sequence
Data Source
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AI summary
A foldable deployable panel device (12) attached to a body (16) of an object is disclosed. The device includes a panel pivotally attached to the body by a first pivot element (40/42) at a first pivot position and a second pivot element (29) at a second pivot position. The first pivot element (40/42) is disengageable from the first pivot position, when the panel (12) is aligned in a predetermined orientation. The second pivot element (29) is fixed at the second pivot position, when the first pivot element (40/42) is engaged at the first pivot position. The panel (12) is urged by an energy storing element (28), when the first pivot element (40/42) is disengaged from the first pivot position, to move into a deployed position.