Linear Actuator Coupling for Manual and Motorized Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustment mechanisms in vehicles, such as robotic lawn mowers, often face a trade-off between equipment costs and the variety of adjustment options, lacking an optimal balance.
Innovation Solution
An adjustment mechanism incorporating a linear actuator with an electric motor, manual actuation, and a coupling element that switches between electromechanical and manual modes, allowing for both electromechanical and manual height adjustments, including a screw drive and reduction gear, enabling intuitive and efficient height adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a linear actuator with electromechanical drive is used for adjustment, then adjustment precision and automation are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element serves dual functions: it acts as a mechanical connector for the electromechanical actuator while simultaneously serving as a manual operating element. This allows the same component to enable both automated and manual adjustment modes, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining multiple adjustment capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the electromechanical actuator system and manual adjustment mechanism into a single integrated structure. The coupling element merges the output shaft of the actuator with the manual operating lever, creating a unified system that eliminates the need for separate mechanisms for each adjustment mode.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adjustment modes are provided, then versatility and user convenience are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element is designed to perform multiple functions: it transmits force from the electromechanical actuator during automated adjustment, serves as a manual operating lever when pulled, and provides mechanical coupling between the two systems. This multi-functionality enables versatile adjustment modes without requiring separate control systems for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between adjustment modes based on user input. When the coupling element is in its normal position, the electromechanical actuator controls adjustment. When the coupling element is pulled outward, it disengages from the actuator and enables manual adjustment. This dynamic behavior allows mode switching without complex control logic.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a coupling element with stop surface is used, then mechanical stability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to preload requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element provides a counteracting force that offsets the preload required to maintain contact between the coupling element and the actuator output. This spring force makes it easier for the user to pull the coupling element outward to engage manual mode, reducing the operational effort required while maintaining stable mechanical coupling during automated mode.
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
Provides a favorable cost-effectiveness and versatility in adjusting vehicle components, such as mower height, with both electromechanical and manual modes, enhancing user convenience and operational flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-elastic arrangement (26) which strikes two stop surfaces under preload
Implementation Method 2
The adjustment mechanism comprises, for example, a screw drive, in particular in the form of a ball screw drive
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustment mechanism, in particular for a vehicle, for example a lawn mower, comprises a linear actuator, which has a motor, a transmission arrangement and a displaceable output element, and a manually operable actuation mechanism, wherein there is a coupling element which is displaceable relative to the output element, which represents both a component of the linear actuator and a component of the manual actuation mechanism and which, in a mechanical mode, permanently rests against a stop of the output element, whereas, in a manual mode, it can be lifted off from the stop by means of the actuation mechanism.