Integrated Motor Unit for Turret Rotation Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motorized turret systems for military vehicles are cumbersome and time-consuming to replace, with numerous components that encroach on operator space and require complex integration with manual systems, making them inefficient for rotation and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A compact, battery-powered motorized turret system with a gear box and motor unit configuration that allows direct mechanical communication with the turret, featuring a manual input shaft for backup operation and a ring gear with stand-offs for secure mounting, reducing the number of components and simplifying integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a motorized turret system is implemented with separate power supply and motor components, then the turret rotation function is achieved, but the system complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power supply, motor, and gear box into a single integrated motor unit assembly. The power supply is mounted within the gear box housing, and the motor is coupled directly to the gear box, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets and complex electrical connections. This merging reduces the overall number of components and simplifies the system architecture while maintaining full motorized rotation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The gear box housing serves multiple functions: it houses the gear mechanism for mechanical advantage, contains the power supply for electrical energy storage, and provides structural mounting points for the entire assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and reduces overall system complexity.
2Extent of automation
If a motorized turret system with separate components is used, then the turret can be motorized, but operator space is encroached upon
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the power supply and motor into the gear box assembly, the overall volume occupied by the motorized system is reduced. This compact configuration minimizes the space required on the turret, leaving more room for the operator and other essential components.
3Extent of automation
If a complex motorized system with multiple components is implemented, then the turret rotation function is achieved, but the time required for replacement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motorized system is designed as a modular assembly that can be replaced as a single unit. The integration of power supply, motor, and gear box creates a self-contained module that simplifies installation and replacement procedures, reducing maintenance downtime.
4Extent of automation
If numerous components are used in the motorized system, then the turret rotation function is achieved, but integration with manual systems becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated motor unit maintains a manual input shaft that directly interfaces with the existing manual turret rotation mechanism. This design allows seamless integration with manual systems while providing full motorized capability, as the motor simply adds rotational force to the existing mechanical interface without requiring complex coupling mechanisms.
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 system provides efficient, compact, and easy-to-maintain motorized turret rotation with reduced component count, allowing for seamless integration with minimal operator space encroachment and quick replacement, enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A motor unit is coupled to an underside of the turret. The power supply is generally mounted on the vehicle frame and supplies electrical power to the motor through a controller
Implementation Method 2
A motor unit has a gear box. A drive gear is in mechanical communication with the drive shaft. A motor having a motor gear is also in communication with the drive shaft and is configured to cause rotation of the drive shaft
Data Source
AI summary
The technology disclosed herein can include a motor unit having a motor with a motor gear to rotate a drive shaft and a drive gear. A manual input shaft can also be configured to transmit rotation to the drive shaft. The motor can have a central axis that forms an angle of less than 90 degrees with a plane substantially defined by an outer surface of a gear box coupled to the motor. A mounting bracket is configured to allow mechanical communication between the motor unit and an internal ring gear. The internal ring gear can be mounted to a vehicle and a turret can be pivotably disposed within the internal ring gear. A motor unit is mounted on the turret and a drive gear is rotatably mounted on the motor unit and in direct engagement with the internal ring gear.