Guard Locking Element Rotary to Translatory Motion Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing guard locking devices for safety switches lack reliable and secure locking mechanisms that can handle different actuator embodiments and provide mechanical release options for emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A guard locking device utilizing an electric drive with a coupling that converts rotary motion into translatory motion, enabling bistable locking and mechanical decoupling for emergency release, with a compact and robust design incorporating a planetary gear train and spindle nut, and a decoupling mechanism for manual operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an electric motor with planetary gear train is used to actuate the guard locking bolt, then the locking force and reliability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional direct mechanical actuation system with an electric motor-driven system featuring a planetary gear train. This substitution provides mechanical advantage through the gear system, enabling high locking forces while maintaining controlled complexity through modular electric actuation components.
2Manufacturing precision
If a coupling is introduced to convert rotary motion to translatory motion, then the motion control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coupling mechanism as an intermediary component between the rotary motor output and the linear guard locking bolt. This coupling (such as a screw mechanism or rack-and-pinion) efficiently converts rotational motion to translatory motion with precise control, while the modular design keeps the overall system complexity manageable.
3Reliability
If guard locking is added to the safety switch system, then the security level is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The guard locking system is designed to be self-actuating through the electric drive mechanism. When the safety switch detects the need for locking, the electric motor automatically actuates the guard locking bolt without requiring manual intervention, thereby maintaining high security while preserving ease of operation through automated control.
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 solution provides secure, reliable, and adaptable guard locking with large stroke forces, enabling both bistable and capture functions, ensuring secure access control and emergency release capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
The guard locking element (4) is connected to the electric drive (6) by means of a coupling (11) such that a rotary motion of the electric drive (6) is converted into a purely translatory motion of the guard locking element (4)
Data Source
AI summary
A guard locking element (4) actuatable by means of an electric drive (6). By means of the electric drive (6), the guard locking element (4) can be brought into a blocking position such that an actuator (2) of a safety switch is locked by said guard locking element. The guard locking element (4) is connected to the electric drive (6) by means of a coupling (11) such that a rotary motion of the electric drive (6) is converted into a purely translatory motion of the guard locking element (4).