Light Module Adjustment Device with Swivel Joint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for adjusting light modules about horizontal or vertical axes require multiple adjusting elements to introduce pivoting movements, leading to inefficient force distribution and limited lateral force compensation, resulting in undesirable transverse forces being introduced into the actuator.
Innovation Solution
A compact adjustment device using a single adjusting element with a swivel joint mount and a rotary joint with an arcuate surface, allowing for rotational compensation of transverse forces, coupled with a second threaded adjustment element for manual adjustment, ensures a force-free connection between the actuator and the light module holder.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple adjusting elements are used to introduce pivoting movement, then the light module can be adjusted, but the structure becomes complex and transverse forces are introduced into the actuator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple adjusting elements into a single integrated adjusting element that performs both pivoting and lateral compensation functions. This single element includes a swivel joint mount for receiving the linear adjusting element and an arcuate surface that interacts with a straight surface to enable rotational compensation, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single adjusting element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides pivoting movement through the swivel joint mount and compensates for transverse forces through the arcuate surface interaction. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate adjusting elements, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If multiple adjusting elements are used, then pivoting movement can be achieved, but transverse forces are introduced into the actuator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potentially harmful transverse forces into a beneficial compensatory mechanism. The arcuate surface of the adjusting element interacts with the straight surface of the carrier to create rotational compensation, allowing the system to absorb and neutralize transverse forces that would otherwise damage the actuator, while still enabling smooth pivoting movement.
3Device complexity
If a compact design with single adjusting element is used, then space is saved and structure is simplified, but lateral force compensation must be integrated
Solution Approach 1:
The single adjusting element is segmented into distinct functional regions: the swivel joint mount for receiving the linear adjusting element and enabling pivoting, and the arcuate surface for lateral force compensation. This segmentation allows each function to be clearly defined and effectively performed within a unified compact structure, integrating adaptability without increasing complexity.
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
This solution provides a simple, space-saving mechanism that effectively compensates for transverse forces and ensures the light module is pivoted without lateral forces, enhancing the stability and adjustability of the light module alignment.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator being pivotable to the adjustment element about a first axis of rotation
Implementation Method 2
The curved surface runs perpendicularly to the second axis of rotation, so that transverse forces can be compensated for by rotating the adjustment element about the second axis of rotation relative to the carrier
Data Source
AI summary
The apparatus has an articulated joint connecting an adjustment mechanism to a carrier of a light module. The articulated joint connects a free end of a linear control element (2) to the adjustment mechanism such that the control element pivots around an axis of rotation perpendicular to adjustment direction to make up a pivot joint. Another pivot joint in the control element allows the element to pivot around another axis of rotation perpendicular to the former axis of rotation.