Lifting Column Obstacle Protection Using Torque-Sensed Motor Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing obstacle protection mechanisms in lifting columns are insufficiently sensitive and slow to respond, often failing to detect obstacles until after a collision, which can cause damage or injury.
Innovation Solution
An obstacle protection structure for lifting columns that includes a box body, driving mechanism, transmission mechanism, and protection structure with a support member, force sensor, and elastic member, allowing for immediate detection of torque changes and deformation of the elastic member to generate electrical signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing obstacle detection components are used to convert pressure signals into electrical signals, then obstacle detection capability is provided, but the response speed is too slow and detection sensitivity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pressure-based obstacle detection components with a torque sensor that directly measures torque changes in the driving mechanism. This substitution enables immediate electrical signal generation when obstacles are detected, eliminating the slow response characteristic of mechanical pressure conversion systems while significantly improving detection sensitivity.
2Reliability
If the lifting column uses traditional obstacle protection mechanisms, then basic protection is provided, but the mechanisms fail to detect obstacles until after collision occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary obstacle detection by monitoring torque changes in the driving mechanism before actual collision occurs. The torque sensor detects abnormal torque variations that precede physical contact, allowing the system to take preventive action and interrupt motor operation before the lifting column reaches the obstacle, thereby ensuring reliable protection while maintaining high detection precision.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If obstacle detection components are installed on the lifting column, then obstacle detection function is achieved, but the deformation at installation location is too small to generate sufficient stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a torque sensor as an intermediary device that measures torque changes in the driving mechanism rather than directly measuring small deformations on the lifting column. This intermediary approach amplifies the detection signal by capturing torque variations that occur during obstacle interaction, making it easier to detect obstacles while maintaining sufficient measurement force.
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
Enhances detection sensitivity and response speed, reducing the risk of collision damage and improving safety by accurately detecting obstacles before significant contact occurs.
Implementation Method 1
the force sensor detects a deformation of the elastic member
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure is a lifting column. A box body (10) has a chamber (13). A driving mechanism (20) is disposed in the chamber (13) and includes a motor (21) and a reduction gear set (22). A transmission mechanism (30) includes a movement (31), which is connected to and driven by the reduction gear set (22). A protection structure (40) includes a support member (41), a force sensor (45), and an elastic member (47). The support member (41) is fixed to the box body (10) and is configured to abut against the periphery of the motor (21), the elastic member (47) is disposed on the support member (41), and the force sensor (45) is disposed on the elastic member (47).