Linear Actuator Selective Locking Mechanism to Reduce Energy and Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional linear actuators face inefficiency due to the need for high self-locking to prevent undesired feedback effects from gravitational forces, which increases energy expenditure and noise.
Innovation Solution
A locking arrangement with a motor shaft that selectively activates and deactivates rotation locking using a locking element clamped between inner and outer chambers, allowing for low friction and efficient operation by controlling the rotation locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high self-locking is designed into the linear actuator components, then prevention of undesired feedback effects from gravitational forces is improved, but energy expenditure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the self-locking function from the friction-dependent component interaction and relocates it to a dedicated locking arrangement with a locking element. This locking element can be selectively engaged or disengaged independent of the friction characteristics of the spindle-nut system, allowing the main actuation mechanism to operate with low friction while reliability is maintained through the separate locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the gravitational forces acting on the furniture and the actuator system. When engaged, it provides the necessary self-locking effect to prevent gravitational feedback; when disengaged, it allows efficient low-friction operation during active adjustment phases.
2Reliability
If high self-locking is designed into the linear actuator components, then prevention of undesired feedback effects from gravitational forces is improved, but noise increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the noise-generating self-locking friction from the continuous operation of the spindle-nut system and concentrates it into the selective engagement of the locking element. During active adjustment, the locking element remains disengaged allowing smooth low-noise operation; self-locking is only activated when adjustment is complete and the system needs to hold position against gravitational forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism operates periodically rather than continuously - engaged only when position holding is required and disengaged during active adjustment phases. This periodic activation reduces cumulative noise exposure while maintaining the necessary reliability for preventing gravitational feedback effects.
3Reliability
If rotation locking is continuously activated, then prevention of undesired rotary movements is improved, but efficiency of linear adjustment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic locking system where the locking element can be selectively engaged or disengaged based on operational requirements. The system transitions between locked and unlocked states - remaining unlocked during active adjustment for efficient motor-driven rotation, and locking only when position stability is needed, thus optimizing both reliability and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is positioned and ready to engage before gravitational feedback becomes problematic, and is disengaged in advance before adjustment operations begin. This preliminary positioning allows the system to switch between operational modes without delay, maintaining high efficiency during adjustment while ensuring reliability when needed.
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 enhances the efficiency of linear actuators by reducing energy consumption and noise, while preventing unwanted rotary movements, thus improving the overall performance and usability of adjustable furniture.
Implementation Method 1
The deflection force can be generated, for example, as a centrifugal force or as an electromagnetic force.
Implementation Method 2
The deflection force can be generated, for example, as a centrifugal force or as an electromagnetic force.
Implementation Method 3
The restoring force is generated, for example, by a spring force or a gravitational force.
Implementation Method 4
The restoring force is generated, for example, by a spring force or a gravitational force.
Data Source
AI summary
A linear actuator for adjusting a piece of furniture comprises a motor having a motor shaft, a conversion arrangement coupled to the motor shaft and adapted to convert a rotational movement generated by the motor shaft into an elongation of the linear actuator, and a locking arrangement coupled directly or indirectly to the motor shaft and adapted to selectively cause rotation locking of the motor shaft by means of a locking element. The locking arrangement comprises an inner part with at least one inner chamber and an outer part radially surrounding the inner part and having at least one outer chamber. The outer part and the inner part are rotatable relative to each other in such a way that the at least one inner chamber and the at least one outer chamber can be aligned with each other. The rotation locking is activated by clamping the locking element between the at least one inner chamber and the at least one outer chamber by means of rotation of the inner part and the outer part relative to each other.