Interlocking Linear Actuator Layout for Fixed-Pitch Modular Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear actuators are not designed for modular assembly, leading to bulky constructions with limited flexibility and adaptability, particularly in applications like pipetting where compact and modular multi-axis drive systems are required.
Innovation Solution
A linear actuator with a body having two parallel sides for interlocking with other actuators, a centrally disposed shaft, and a drive motor capable of axial displacement in two directions, allowing for modular assembly with a fixed pitch of shafts and enabling compact and flexible configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If linear actuators are assembled using a separate frame or carrier, then the actuators can be combined into an assembly, but the assembly achieves optimum compactness and has flexible adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator body integrates multiple functions: it houses the drive motor, guides the shaft, and provides interlocking surfaces for modular assembly. The body itself becomes the mounting structure, eliminating the need for separate frames or carriers and achieving compact integration of all components.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator body is designed with universal interlocking features (protrusions and recesses) that enable it to function both as a standalone unit and as a modular component in assemblies of arbitrary configuration. The same body structure supports individual operation and modular combination without requiring different designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate frame or carrier is used to mount actuators, then the actuators can be combined, but the construction becomes bulky and ad hoc
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting function is merged into the actuator body itself through integrated interlocking features. The protrusions and recesses provide precise mechanical coupling without requiring external frames, brackets, or carriers, thereby simplifying the overall construction while maintaining modular assembly capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is segmented into functional modules (body, shaft, motor) with standardized interlocking interfaces. This segmentation enables modular assembly while maintaining simplicity, as each module is self-contained and can be combined in various configurations without complex integration requirements.
3Ease of operation
If actuators are designed for individual use, then each actuator can operate independently, but they cannot be combined into compact modular assemblies
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator body incorporates universal interlocking features that allow it to function independently or be combined with other actuators in modular assemblies. The same structural features enable both standalone operation and modular combination, providing dual functionality without compromising either capability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If actuators are combined with arbitrary spacing, then flexibility in configuration is achieved, but consistent shaft pitch for applications like pipetting cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking features are designed with specific local dimensions (protrusion width, recess geometry) that enforce a fixed shaft pitch when actuators are assembled. This localized geometric constraint ensures precise spacing between shafts while allowing flexibility in the overall number and arrangement of actuators in the assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A linear actuator (10) for use in a modular assembly of such actuators comprises an actuator body (11), a shaft (12) guided by the body to be displaceable relative thereto in the sense of the longitudinal axis (13) of the shaft and a drive motor enclosed in the body and operable to axially displace the shaft relative to the body in two mutually opposite directions. The body has two mutually opposite sides (15a, 15b) respectively lying in two substantial parallel spaced-apart planes, which each represent a reference plane for positioning the body side-by-side with the body of another such actuator, and a further side (17b) connecting the two mutually opposite sides and stepped to form a projection (18) receiving the shaft (12) with the axis (13) parallel to the two planes and a rebate (19) beside the projection to permit the body to interlock with the body of another such actuator at that further side. The projection (18) and rebate (19) are of substantially the same width in the sense of the spacing of the two planes and the shaft (12) is disposed substantially centrally of the projection (18) so that when the body (11) is interlocked with that of another such actuator the pitch of the shaft axes (13) is equal to that width.