Foldable Platform Joint Synchronization for Defined Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Foldable platforms with double joints face challenges in achieving a defined folding process and weight compensation, making automation difficult due to undefined joint positions and varying friction or load situations.
Innovation Solution
A device with a synchronization mechanism and a drive system that synchronizes the movements of the fixed and folding parts with the double joint, allowing for a defined folding process and weight compensation, using components like synchronization elements, a linear actuator, and weight compensation means such as gas pressure springs or chain drives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a foldable platform uses double joints with independent movement of elements, then the platform has flexibility in movement, but the joint positions become undefined and automation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a synchronization device as an intermediary mechanism between the fixed part and folding part. This device includes synchronization elements that couple the movement of both parts, ensuring that the double joint follows a defined trajectory. The intermediary synchronization device translates the independent movements into coordinated motion, enabling automation while preserving flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic synchronization mechanism where the synchronization elements are designed to adaptively maintain the correct geometric relationship between the fixed part and folding part during movement. The system dynamically adjusts the joint positions based on the folding angle, ensuring defined positions throughout the range of motion while maintaining movement flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If friction and load situations vary during folding, then the platform can handle different operating conditions, but the joint positions become undefined and weight compensation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization device acts as a mechanical intermediary that enforces a defined geometric relationship between the fixed part and folding part regardless of varying friction and load conditions. By coupling the movements through synchronization elements, the system ensures that the double joint follows a predetermined trajectory, maintaining position definition under varying operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates weight compensation means that act beforehand to counteract the effects of varying loads and friction. The synchronization device pre-establishes the correct geometric relationship, cushioning against the adverse effects of variable operating conditions before they can cause position deviations.
3Extent of automation
If a linear actuator is positioned between the fixed part and double joint, then automation is enabled, but the actuator may reach dead center position which limits movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the dead center position problem by changing the dimensional approach of the actuator arrangement. The linear actuator is positioned and oriented such that its stroke direction is aligned with the folding motion trajectory, avoiding the dead center position where the actuator would be perpendicular to the motion path. This dimensional adjustment ensures continuous movement capability throughout the folding range.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization device dynamically coordinates the actuator movement with the folding part movement, ensuring that the actuator operates within its optimal range and avoids dead center positions. The dynamic coupling maintains the correct geometric relationship while preserving the full movement range of the actuator.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the folding part moves independently of the fixed part, then movement flexibility is maintained, but the working surfaces do not align creating safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization device serves as a mechanical intermediary that enforces alignment between the working surfaces of the fixed part and folding part. The synchronization elements couple the movements to ensure that when the folding part reaches its working position, the surfaces are properly aligned, maintaining both flexibility and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization mechanism provides mechanical feedback that ensures the folding part only reaches properly aligned positions with the fixed part. The geometric coupling in the synchronization device creates inherent feedback that prevents misalignment, ensuring operator safety while maintaining movement flexibility.
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
Enables a controlled and automated folding process, ensuring a composite work surface without offset, reducing the required driving force, and effectively compensating for the weight of the folding part, thus enhancing safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The device preferably comprises at least one means for compensating the weight of the folding part, in particular a gas pressure spring
Implementation Method 2
The device preferably comprises a chain drive, the chain drive comprising a first sprocket and a second sprocket and a chain that effects a coupling of the first and second sprockets
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Device (106) for influencing a folding process of a foldable platform (100), wherein the foldable platform (100) comprises a fixed part (102) and a folding part (104), wherein the device (106) comprises a double joint (112), wherein the double joint (112) can be arranged or is arranged with a first end on the fixed part (102) and with a second end on the folding part (104), and a synchronization device (114) comprising a first synchronization element (116) and a second synchronization element (118), wherein the synchronization device (114) is configured to influence the folding process of the platform (100) by means of the first synchronization element (116), which interacts with the second synchronization element (118), such that movements of the fixed part (102), the folding part (104), and the double joint (112) are relatively are synchronized with each other. Foldable platform which encompasses the device.