Linear Actuator Cable Shrouding for Protected Trim Tab Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electric linear actuators for trim tabs on boats have exposed and easily damaged electrical cables that require a visible hole in the transom, posing installation and aesthetic issues.
Innovation Solution
The actuator design incorporates a shroud on the pivot ear, a shroud on the housing, and a hood on the mounting bracket to guide and conceal the cable, ensuring secure routing and hiding it from view, while maintaining functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the cable is exposed for easy access and installation, then the installation process is simpler, but the cable becomes vulnerable to damage and aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cable is nested within the hollow interior of the pivot ear, which is itself nested within the housing structure. This nested arrangement protects the cable while maintaining compact integration with the actuator components.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot ear serves as an intermediary structure between the housing and the cable. It provides a dedicated pathway and protective enclosure for the cable, mediating between the need for cable protection and the actuator's mechanical functions.
2Ease of repair
If the cable is exposed for easy access, then maintenance is easier, but the cable is more susceptible to damage from external factors
Solution Approach 1:
The cable is nested within the hollow interior of the pivot ear, which is itself nested within the housing structure. This nested arrangement protects the cable while maintaining compact integration with the actuator components.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot ear provides a shell-like enclosure for the cable. This protective shell shields the cable from external harmful factors such as water, debris, and physical damage while allowing the actuator to function normally.
3Ease of manufacture
If a visible hole is made in the transom for cable routing, then cable installation is straightforward, but aesthetic appearance and structural integrity are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cable routing function is extracted from the transom structure itself. Instead of requiring a hole through the transom, the cable is routed through the actuator's own housing and pivot ear, separating the cable routing path from the transom integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing and pivot ear serve as intermediary structures that provide alternative cable routing paths. These intermediaries eliminate the need for direct penetration of the transom, preserving its aesthetic and structural properties.
Data Source
AI summary
A linear actuator has a mounting bracket with a mounting flange configured to be coupled to a first component and a clevis comprising a pair of forks. A housing has a first end configured to be pivotably coupled to the clevis forks. A rod extends from a second end of the housing and is configured to be coupled to a second component. A cable extends from the first end of the housing and is routed between the clevis forks and through an opening in the mounting flange. A hood on the mounting bracket extends from the mounting flange at least partially along the clevis forks so as to cover at least part of the cable. A shroud extends past the first end of the housing and also covers at least part of the cable.