Linear actuator system for motion simulator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear actuators used in motion simulators are constrained by their vertical orientation, which limits the flexibility of motion platforms and imposes height restrictions.
Innovation Solution
A linear actuator system with a transmission mechanism that changes the direction of output from horizontal to vertical, utilizing a frame and pivotally connected joining links to enable relative movement between the frame and an interface in a different direction, allowing for a more flexible and compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If linear actuators are positioned in vertical orientation, then they can support the weight of platform and occupants, but they impose height constraints on motion platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reorients the linear actuator from vertical to horizontal positioning, changing the dimension in which the actuator operates. The transmission mechanism then converts the horizontal actuator movement into vertical platform motion, allowing the actuator to support weight effectively while reducing the height constraint imposed by a vertically-oriented actuator.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission mechanism acts as an intermediary between the horizontally-oriented linear actuator and the motion platform. It includes a frame with at least one joining link pivotally connected at a first location and operatively connected to the actuator at a second location, with the link contacting an interface at a third location to cause relative movement between the frame and interface in a direction differing from the actuator's movement direction.
2Length of moving object
If linear actuators are reoriented from vertical to horizontal, then height constraints are reduced, but the direction of output movement must be changed
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission mechanism serves as an intermediary that adapts the movement direction. The joining link is pivotally connected to the frame at a first location and operatively connected to the actuator assembly at a second location, with the link contacting an interface at a third location to cause relative movement between the frame and interface in a second direction differing from the first direction of actuator output.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission mechanism transforms the horizontal movement output from the actuator into vertical movement of the platform by utilizing a different spatial dimension, effectively changing the direction of output through geometric arrangement of the joining links and interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A linear actuator system may have an actuator assembly for moving an output in translation in a first direction. A transmission has a frame, a joining link(s) pivotally connected to the frame at a first location and operatively connected to the actuator assembly at a second location for receiving movement from the output. The joining link(s) contacting an interface at a third location to cause relative movement between the frame and the interface in a second direction differing from the first direction. A motion platform system is also provided.