Integrated Linear Actuator Control Unit for Pergola Coverings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for synchronizing linear motors in installations like pergolas face challenges with external noise interference, laborious wiring modifications, and complex installations, requiring separate control units and dedicated housing, which complicates setup and operation.
Innovation Solution
A compact device integrating an electric motor, linear actuator, control unit, and wireless receiver within a single housing, using a data transmission wire for synchronization and control, eliminating the need for external wiring and allowing remote operation via mobile devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If two linear motors are used to move covering elements, then the movement capability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to separate control units and dedicated wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control unit and encoder into a single integrated housing with the linear motor, eliminating the need for separate control units and dedicated wiring. This integration reduces the overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to control multiple motors for improved movement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated control unit serves multiple functions: it controls the linear motor, processes encoder signals for synchronization, and manages communication protocols. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining movement capability.
2Measurement precision
If separate control units with dedicated wiring are used, then the control precision is improved, but the installation complexity increases due to laborious wiring modifications
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the control unit and encoder into a single housing, the patent eliminates the need for separate wiring connections between control units and motors. This integration maintains control precision through direct signal processing while dramatically simplifying installation by eliminating laborious wiring modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit and encoder are pre-integrated and pre-wired within a single housing during manufacturing. This preliminary integration eliminates the need for on-site wiring work, making installation simple while preserving the precision control capabilities that would otherwise require complex wiring arrangements.
3Reliability
If external noise interference affects synchronization signals, then the synchronization reliability deteriorates, but adding shielding complexity increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the encoder and control unit into a single enclosed housing that physically isolates the synchronization signals from external noise interference. This integration provides inherent shielding without requiring additional complex shielding components, thereby maintaining synchronization reliability while avoiding increased device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated housing acts as an intermediary barrier between the synchronization signals and external noise sources. This physical enclosure mediates the interaction between signals and environment, blocking noise interference while maintaining signal integrity, thus improving reliability without adding complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the electronic board has to be moved in position, then the adaptability is improved, but the installation time increases due to laborious wiring modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit and encoder are merged into a single movable housing that can be positioned and fixed as a complete unit. This integration eliminates the need for separate wiring modifications when repositioning, allowing quick adaptation to different locations while minimizing installation time by eliminating laborious wiring work.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit and encoder are pre-integrated with all necessary wiring and connections already established within the housing during manufacturing. This preliminary action allows the entire assembly to be moved and repositioned as a single unit without requiring on-site wiring modifications, thus enabling position adaptability while minimizing installation time.
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
Simplifies installation, reduces interference, and enables easy remote control and monitoring, ensuring reliable synchronization and operation with reduced installation costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator (6) provided with a slider (8) which can be moved linearly with respect to a guide element (9), preferably fixed
Implementation Method 2
a wireless receiver (36) mounted on said electronic card (30) for receiving, from the outside, command signals for controlling said motor (7)
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~4a
Figure 5~6
AI summary
Improved device (15) for the handling and control of at least one covering and/or closing element (3), preferably in a covering and/or closing installation (1), comprising: - a linear actuator (6) comprising a slider (8) which is movable with respect to a guide element (9), said slider being intended to be associated with said at least one element (3) to be moved, - a housing structure (12) which is associated with said linear actuator (6) and inside which a motor (7) for moving the slider (8) of said linear actuator (6) and a control unit (31) are housed configured to control said motor (7), said control unit (31) comprises a wireless receiver (36) configured to receive command and control signals from the outside, said device being characterized in that it comprises a data transmission wire (40) which at one end is connected to said control unit (31), provided inside said housing structure (12), and which at the other end, emerging from said housing structure (12), is configured to be connected and in bidirectional communication with another external device (4) and/or with an external interface.