Mechanical Joint Assemblies with Broad Motion and Precise Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical joints have limited ranges of motion and difficulty in precise position control, particularly in electromechanical applications.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical joint assembly with broad ranges of motion, controlled by one or more stepper motors, comprising a mounting surface, axis members, horizontal and vertical link members, and motors attached via shafts, allowing precise tilting and positioning through a combination of rotary motions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional ball joint is used, then it provides motion in multiple directions, but its range of motion is limited due to base structure
Solution Approach 1:
The joint assembly is divided into multiple independent rotational components (first and second rotational components) that can rotate independently around different axes. This segmentation allows each component to contribute to the overall range of motion without being constrained by a single base structure, enabling broad motion capabilities while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third dimension of motion by combining horizontal and vertical link members with rotational components that operate in multiple planes. The first rotational component provides motion in one plane while the second rotational component adds motion in another plane, creating three-dimensional motion capability that expands the range of motion beyond conventional two-dimensional joints.
2Measurement precision
If a conventional ball joint is used, then it provides various directions of motion, but precise position control is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The joint assembly incorporates feedback mechanisms through position sensors that continuously monitor the angular positions of the rotational components. This feedback information is fed to a control system that adjusts the motor commands to achieve precise positioning, enabling accurate control of the mounting surface position while maintaining manageable control complexity through systematic feedback loops.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical position control methods with electromechanical control using motors and sensors. The motors provide precise rotational control through electronic control systems, and position sensors enable accurate measurement and feedback control, achieving superior position precision compared to purely mechanical control systems while managing complexity through electronic integration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple motors and link members are added to increase range of motion, then precise control is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second rotational components are designed to serve multiple functions: they provide broad range of motion capability while also serving as the primary elements for precise position control when actuated by the motors. The link members simultaneously transmit motion and provide structural support, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and thereby managing overall device complexity while achieving both wide range of motion and precise control.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are various embodiments of mechanical joint assemblies with broad ranges of motion. The joint assemblies can be used to control the position of a mounting surface, with the motion and position of the joint assembly being precisely controllable, for instance by one or more stepper motors.