Integrated Coupling Arm Mechanism for Simpler Cart Towing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic traveling devices with coupling capabilities have complex structures due to the need for two independent coupling devices on the left and right sides.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device mounted on an automatic traveling device, featuring a drive motor, gear mechanism, coupling arm, and controller, which moves the coupling arm from a non-coupling to a coupling position when the device reaches a predetermined coupling operation position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two independent coupling devices are provided on the left and right sides, then the coupling function is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two independent coupling devices into a single integrated coupling device. The coupling device includes a single drive motor that drives a gear mechanism, which in turn drives both the left and right coupling arms simultaneously. This merging of functions reduces the number of components and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining the capability to couple both left and right sides of the automatic traveling device to the cart.
Solution Approach 2:
The single drive motor and gear mechanism serve multiple functions by simultaneously driving both coupling arms. The gear mechanism is designed to transmit rotational motion to both the left and right coupling arms, enabling one motor to perform the work of two separate motors. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity while achieving the same coupling effect.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two independent coupling devices are provided, then both sides can be coupled independently, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two independent coupling devices into one integrated system where a single drive motor and gear mechanism replace two separate motors and their associated components. The gear mechanism is designed to distribute rotational motion to both coupling arms, reducing the total number of components while maintaining independent coupling capability through the mechanical design of the gear transmission system.
Solution Approach 2:
While the drive system is unified, the coupling arms themselves remain separate and can operate independently. The gear mechanism segments the rotational motion to drive each coupling arm separately, allowing independent coupling of left and right sides while using a single motor. This segmentation at the execution level maintains adaptability while consolidation at the power source level reduces component quantity.
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 configuration allows for a simpler structure while enabling effective coupling and towing of a towed vehicle, enhancing operational efficiency and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
a drive motor, a gear mechanism connected to the drive motor
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling device includes a coupling motor, a gear mechanism connected to the coupling motor, a coupling arm connected to the gear mechanism, and a coupling controller that drives the coupling motor. When an automatic traveling device reaches a predetermined coupling operation position, the coupling controller drives the coupling motor to rotate the gear mechanism, thereby moving the coupling arm from a non-coupling position to a coupling position for coupling a cart.