Motor-Bypass Electromechanical Spring for Compact Load Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large spring systems used in various applications often have a large footprint due to the size of the springs and hydraulic systems, and they become inoperable when the motor disengages or breaks, leading to a need for a compact and fail-safe solution that maintains functionality even without motor assistance.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable spring system that includes mechanical springs and/or compressible fluids, capable of maintaining partial or full operation when the motor is inoperable, with a disengagement arrangement that allows the system to bypass the motor and continue functioning through mechanical springs or fluids, and equipped with sensors and a transmitter/receiver for remote monitoring and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If large springs and hydraulic systems are used to handle large loads, then the load capacity is improved, but the footprint of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a telescoping rod design where multiple rod segments are nested within each other, allowing the spring system to achieve extended stroke lengths without increasing the retracted footprint. The inner rod slides within the outer rod, creating a compact configuration when retracted while maintaining the ability to extend for load handling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static, fixed-length structure to a dynamic, variable-length configuration. The telescoping rods can extend and retract based on operational requirements, allowing the system to occupy minimal space during storage or transport while providing sufficient extension for load handling when needed.
2Ease of operation
If the spring system is designed to operate only when the motor is engaged, then the motor provides consistent control, but the system becomes inoperable when the motor disengages or breaks
Solution Approach 1:
The spring system is designed to be self-sufficient through its mechanical telescoping mechanism that can operate independently of the motor. The spring force and mechanical advantage provided by the telescoping rods enable the system to function autonomously when motor assistance is unavailable, maintaining operational capability through pure mechanical means.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a mechanical design that anticipates motor failure by providing an alternative operational mode. The telescoping rod mechanism and spring system are configured to cushion and absorb the operational requirements, allowing the system to continue functioning even when the motor cannot provide assistance.
3Reliability
If the spring system includes a disengagement arrangement to bypass the motor, then the system can operate when the motor is inoperable, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The disengagement arrangement is merged with the existing telescoping rod mechanism rather than being added as a separate system. The mechanical components that enable telescoping also facilitate the disengagement and bypass functionality, combining multiple functions into a unified structural solution that minimizes additional complexity.
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 system achieves compactness and reliability by allowing the spring system to operate independently of the motor, ensuring continuous functionality and remote monitoring, which is advantageous in applications where motor failure is a concern.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanical spring positioned in said internal chamber of said bottom sleeve, said internal chamber of said top sleeve, or combinations thereof
Implementation Method 2
The spring system can include one or more mechanical springs and/or include a compressible or non-compressible fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A spring system that includes an adjustable spring system that is operated by a motor.