Integrally Driven Linkage for Power Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and complexity of conventional power distribution systems in industrial and commercial equipment, particularly due to redundancy in drive systems and complexity in power transmission, make them impractical for many applications, especially when equipment components move relative to each other.
Innovation Solution
An integrally driven linkage system using a chain-like series of rotating elements, such as pulleys and sprockets, connected by drive elements like belts and chains, allowing for efficient power transfer and articulation between components, minimizing energy requirements and enabling bidirectional power transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate motor, transmission and control system is provided for each machine in a grouping, then each machine can operate independently and reliably, but the cost of the equipment becomes excessive due to redundancy in the number and style of the various drive systems required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple independent drive systems into a single integrated drive unit that powers multiple machines through a common power distribution system. This merging eliminates redundant motors, transmissions and control systems while maintaining the ability to independently control each machine through a centralized control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated drive system is designed with universal functionality to power different types of machines simultaneously. A single drive unit can distribute power to multiple machines with different power requirements through variable speed drives and power taking-off mechanisms, making the system adaptable to various operational needs without requiring separate specialized drive systems for each machine.
2Device complexity
If power from a single power source is provided to a plurality of different machines, then cost is reduced, but the complexity of conventional power distribution systems makes them impractical for many applications
Solution Approach 1:
The power distribution system incorporates dynamic control capabilities through variable speed drives and adjustable power taking-off mechanisms. This allows the system to adapt to changing operational requirements in real-time, making it practical for applications where machines need to operate at different speeds and power levels while still being powered by a single source.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the power distribution system into multiple independent control zones, each capable of independently controlling power delivery to specific machines. This segmentation maintains versatility and adaptability by allowing individual machines or groups of machines to be controlled separately, even though they all draw power from a single source.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex transmission and power dividing components are used to distribute power from a single source, then power can be provided to multiple machines, but the complexity makes the system impractical when the drive source and destination machine move relative to one another
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible power transmission elements such as belts, chains, or hoses that can accommodate relative movement between the drive source and destination machines. These flexible connections replace complex rigid transmission components while maintaining the ability to distribute power effectively, making the system practical for mobile or relocatable applications.
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 integrally driven linkage system reduces costs by using conventional components, promotes efficiency, and allows power transfer between moving components, effectively addressing the issues of redundancy and complexity in conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
drive elements, such as a belts or chains
Implementation Method 2
rotating elements, such as a pulley, gear or sprocket, that are joined to one another by drive elements
Data Source
AI summary
An integrally driven linkage for a conveyor system is provided. The integrally driven linkage includes inner and outer links, an axle upon which bearings are placed to support a two stage pulley arrangement and a multitude of additional axles which carry bearings and two position sheaves which carry daisy chained belt loops from one axle to the next. Cables and hoses may be externally attached at each outside link thereby providing a functional cable carrying device. The outside links may be stepped to prevent radial motion in one or more direction and/or to limit radial motion. The integrally driven linkage may be used for virtually any industrial or commercial application where mechanical and control energy is needed for non-stationary equipment, and is not limited to conveyor systems but may be applied to virtually any electro-mechanical device, including but not limited to pneumatic and hydraulic devices.