Linear Actuator Assembly Using Clevis Pin and Slot Mounts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior art linear actuators for adjustable furniture are costly to manufacture and difficult to assemble due to the use of threaded fasteners, which complicates the connection of the electric motor drive assembly to the rigid arm and alignment with furniture components.
Innovation Solution
The improved linear actuator simplifies assembly by using a clevis pin to secure the linkage to the pusher block, eliminating the need for additional brackets and threaded fasteners, and employs slots and prongs to secure the drive motor assembly to the rigid arm without threaded fasteners, reducing the number of parts and assembly time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded fasteners are used to connect the electric motor drive assembly to the rigid arm, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the electric motor drive assembly directly to the rigid arm using integrated mounting features (such as integrated motor mounts or direct coupling mechanisms) that combine the motor assembly and arm into a more unified structure, eliminating the need for separate threaded fasteners and reducing assembly steps while maintaining connection reliability
2Reliability
If threaded fasteners are used on the pusher block to attach linkages, then the connection is secure, but it becomes difficult for assembly line workers to align the furniture so that the levers line up with threaded apertures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces self-aligning features such as tapered mounting surfaces, cam-locked mechanisms, or floating mounting brackets that act as intermediaries between the linkage and pusher block, allowing automatic alignment during assembly while maintaining secure connections, thereby eliminating the difficulty of precise aperture alignment
3Strength
If multiple threaded fasteners and brackets are used in the actuator design, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the number of parts increases and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple separate components (brackets, fasteners, mounting elements) into integrated structural features where the rigid arm itself incorporates mounting provisions, the motor assembly includes integrated mounting tabs or flanges, and the pusher block has built-in attachment mechanisms, thereby reducing part count while maintaining structural integrity through the unified design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs multi-functional components such as the rigid arm that serves both as a structural support element and as a mounting platform for the motor assembly, and the pusher block that functions both as a mechanical connector and as a structural link, thereby reducing the need for separate dedicated mounting brackets and fasteners
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 design reduces production costs and simplifies the mounting process, allowing for quicker assembly and alignment of the actuator with furniture, enhancing manufacturing efficiency and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator is typically comprised of an electric motor drive assembly that drives a threaded spindle. As the electric motor drive assembly turns the spindle, the pusher block moves from one end of the arm to the other end.
Data Source
AI summary
A linear actuator is configured to provide the moving force for adjustable furniture, such as beds, chairs, or tables. The linear actuator includes a drive assembly, rigid arm, and linkage assembly. The rigid arm includes a pusher block with one or more attachment projections where the linkage assembly is attached.