Telescoping Mast Axial Drive Screw Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing telescoping masts face issues with maintaining airtight seals, being heavy, and lacking precise positioning and locking mechanisms, particularly in extreme environments and portable applications, leading to potential accidents and maintenance challenges.
Innovation Solution
A telescoping mast assembly with a rigid axial drive screw and nut carrier system, combined with a gearbox locking mechanism, allows for precise positioning and locking of mast sections between fully retracted and extended heights, using high-strength materials like carbon fiber and incorporating a gear assembly for efficient extension and retraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If pneumatic seals are used between mast sections, then the mast can be lightweight and portable, but the seals are vulnerable to environmental contaminants and ice, causing reliability issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the vulnerable pneumatic seal system entirely from the mast structure. Instead of using sealed pneumatic cylinders between sections, the invention uses an exposed chain drive mechanism that eliminates the need for airtight seals, thereby solving the reliability issue while maintaining lightweight construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the pneumatic mechanical system with a chain-driven mechanical system. The chain drive mechanism uses mechanical advantage through gears and chains instead of pneumatic pressure, substituting a more environmentally resilient mechanical system for the vulnerable pneumatic system.
2Ease of operation
If pneumatic or hydraulic systems are used for mast extension, then the mast can be extended and retracted, but the drive mechanisms are heavy and limit suitability for vehicle roof applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy pneumatic or hydraulic systems with a lighter chain-driven mechanical system. The chain drive mechanism uses a motor connected through gears to rotate a drive screw, which moves the mast sections via chains and sprockets, achieving the same extension function with reduced weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the drive mechanism into modular components: a motor, gear train, drive screw, and separate chain-driven mast sections. This segmentation allows for more efficient weight distribution and enables the use of lighter materials while maintaining structural integrity and operational capability.
3Ease of operation
If chain link mechanisms are used for mast drive, then the mast can be extended and retracted, but the exposed chain mechanism is susceptible to damage from environmental contact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a locking mechanism that engages before the mast sections fully extend or retract. This preliminary locking action prevents the exposed chain mechanism from being subjected to extreme environmental forces during operation, reducing susceptibility to environmental damage while maintaining full extension capability.
4Ease of operation
If axial drive screw systems are used for mast sections, then the mast can be extended and retracted, but axial loadings during thread engagement can damage the drive train components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a locking mechanism that secures the mast sections in position before the axial drive screw engages the threads. This preliminary locking prevents sudden axial loadings and mismatches from damaging the drive train components, while still allowing smooth extension and retraction operation.
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
The solution provides a rugged, reliable, and safe telescoping mast system that can be easily maintained, offering precise positioning and preventing accidental section collapse, while being lightweight and resistant to environmental contaminants.
Implementation Method 1
axial drive screw centrally located in the mast assembly for extending and retracting the second and third elongate tubular sections
Implementation Method 2
gearbox locking mechanism, allows for precise positioning and locking of mast sections
Data Source
AI summary
A telescoping mast has a plurality of elongate tubular sections which are telescopically attached to each other and an axial drive screw centrally located in the mast for extending and retracting the elongate tubular section. A gear assembly is connected to the drive screw for rotating the drive screw. A nut carrier assembly is secured to tubular sections. Each nut carrier assembly has a threaded nut housed within a nut carrier. The threaded nut engages corresponding threads on the drive screw. A locking mechanism is provided for locking the gear assembly which has a first section surrounding a second section secured to the gear assembly. The second section has an elongated member extending from a surface of the second section. The first section has at least one slot for engaging the elongated member, thereby preventing rotation of the gear assembly.