Linear Actuator Rear Mounting with Finger-Lock Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional rear mountings for linear actuators require a large number of assembly operations, complicating the mounting process.
Innovation Solution
A linear actuator design featuring a first fixing geometry with circumferentially distributed fingers and a second fixing geometry in the form of a negative overlay, allowing for simplified mounting with a spring ring that secures the rear mounting to the console, preventing lateral movement and pulling forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional separate rear mounting parts secured by screws or housing encapsulation are used, then reliable fixation is achieved, but assembly complexity and number of assembly operations increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the rear mounting part with the console by integrating the fixing geometries directly into these components. The first fixing geometry is formed on the console with fingers distributed circumferentially, while the second fixing geometry is formed on the rear mounting part as a negative form, allowing direct engagement without separate fastening components or housing encapsulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing geometry is segmented into multiple fingers distributed in the circumferential direction around the axis. This segmentation allows the rear mounting part to be securely fixed to the console through multiple contact points while maintaining a simple overall structure that requires minimal assembly operations.
2Strength
If a spring ring is added to prevent lateral movement and secure against pulling forces, then fixation strength improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A spring ring in the form of a flexible element is arranged in the overlapping region between the first and second fixing geometries. The spring ring can elastically deform to accommodate assembly tolerances and then provides continuous elastic force to prevent lateral movement between the console and rear mounting part, while also resisting pulling forces that may arise during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring ring changes its physical state from a compressed or relaxed condition during assembly to a pre-loaded elastic state after assembly. This parameter change allows the spring ring to provide continuous securing force without requiring additional active control mechanisms, maintaining simplicity while improving fixation strength.
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
Simplifies the mounting process by establishing a well-defined geometric relation and secure fixation between the rear mounting and console, reducing assembly complexity and ensuring stability.
Implementation Method 1
a spring ring is arranged in the overlapping region. The spring ring can be used to prevent a lateral movement between the console and the rear mounting
Implementation Method 2
The inclined front face of the first fixing geometry then widens the spring ring so that it can pass the first protrusion
Implementation Method 3
The inclined front face of the first fixing geometry then widens the spring ring so that it can pass the first protrusion and snaps radially inwards behind the first protrusion
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a linear actuator comprising a console (2), an outer tube connected to the console, an electric motor, a transmission, and a spindle in connection with the transmission. The linear actuator comprises a spindle nut on the spindle and an inner tube connected to the spindle nut. The spindle nut and the inner tube are guided inside the outer tube. For mounting the linear actuator, a rear end is equipped with a rear mounting (5) and a front end of the inner tube is equipped with a front mounting. In such a linear actuator the rear mounting should be mounted to the housing in a simple manner. To this end, the console (2) comprises a first fixing geometry (18) having a number of first fingers (19) distributed in the circumferential direction around the axis and the rear mounting (5) comprises a second fixing geometry (20) as negative form of the first fixing geometry, wherein the first fixing geometry and the second fixing geometry form an overlapping region.