Hollow Rod Actuator With Deployable Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tools with actuating mechanisms in hollow cylindrical shafts or rods typically allow only one function and require device retraction for switching between functions, limiting multi-functionality and necessitating additional tools for performing multiple tasks.
Innovation Solution
A hollow rod developable actuator tool featuring a four-bar mechanism with deployment rings that can extend outside the rod, allowing multiple devices to be attached and used without retracting the tool, enabling multi-functionality within a confined space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional tools with single-function actuating mechanisms are used, then the structure is simple and reliable, but the versatility and multi-functionality are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The tool is divided into multiple independent deployment rings (first deployment ring, second deployment ring) that can be actuated separately. Each deployment ring can deploy independent devices or functions, allowing the single tool to perform multiple functions without requiring a completely complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is designed with multiple deployment rings that can each perform different functions (e.g., deploying cameras, lights, or other devices). This universal design allows one tool to replace multiple specialized tools, achieving multi-functionality while maintaining relatively simple individual mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions are integrated into a single tool, then versatility improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating mechanism is segmented into multiple independent deployment rings, each with its own actuation system. This segmentation allows each function to be implemented with simple, dedicated mechanisms rather than requiring a complex integrated system, thus maintaining low individual complexity while achieving high overall versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment rings are nested within the hollow rod structure, with each ring capable of deploying its own devices independently. This nested arrangement allows multiple functions to coexist within a compact space without requiring complex interconnections, maintaining simplicity while enabling multi-functionality.
3Productivity
If the tool allows device deployment without retraction, then operational efficiency improves, but the workspace trauma increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool uses multiple independent deployment rings that can be deployed and retracted independently. This allows devices to be deployed without requiring complete tool retraction, improving operational efficiency by enabling partial deployments while minimizing workspace trauma by limiting the exposed portion of the tool.
Solution Approach 2:
The deployment rings are designed to be dynamically deployable and retractable, allowing the tool to transition between different operational states. This dynamic capability enables devices to be deployed without complete tool retraction, improving efficiency while controlling the extent of workspace trauma through selective deployment.
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 multiple tools or devices to be deployed and used within a single entrance, reducing the need for multiple tools, minimizing workspace trauma, and enhancing operational efficiency in confined spaces.
Implementation Method 1
When the inner cylinder of the fourth link is rotated in relation to the outer cylinder of the first link in such a way that moves the first joint and third joint away from each other along the perimeter of the tool
Implementation Method 2
A hollow rod developable actuator tool featuring a four-bar mechanism with deployment rings that can extend outside the rod
Data Source
AI summary
A hollow rod developable actuator tool including a first link comprising an outer cylinder, a deployment ring including second link comprising a first portion pivotably connected to the first link at a first joint mounted in a first cavity in the wall of the outer cylinder and a third link comprising a second tool portion pivotably connected to the first portion at a second link, and a fourth link comprising an inner cylinder to which the second portion of the deployment ring is also pivotably connected at a third link mounted in a second cavity in the wall of the inner cylinder. When the inner cylinder of the fourth link is rotated in relation to the outer cylinder of the first link the actuator tool transitions from a first state where the deployment ring is stowed within the tool to a second state where the deployment ring is deployed externally.