Motorized Joint Locking Device for Torque Peak Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motorized joints for programmable automatic movement devices lack precise adjustment and reliable locking of connected carriers, leading to inefficiencies and potential damage from torque peaks during operation.
Innovation Solution
A motorized joint with a tension shaft transmission and a locking device that uses a frictionally connected locking means with form-fitting components to brake and lock the transmission component, decoupling the output shaft from torque effects and allowing for precise control and emergency stiffening, featuring a braking mechanism that can dissipate forces over a short distance without overloading upstream components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the output shaft is directly connected to the transmission component, then torque transmission is efficient, but the output shaft cannot be protected from torque peaks during braking
Solution Approach 1:
A locking means with frictional connection is introduced as an intermediary between the output shaft and the transmission component (flex spline). This frictional connection allows torque transmission while protecting the output shaft from torque peaks during braking, as the frictional engagement absorbs shock loads without directly transmitting them to the output shaft.
2Device complexity
If the locking device braked transmission component is directly connected to the output shaft, then the structure is simple, but the output shaft is overloaded during braking
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means serves as a mediator that frictionally connects the braked transmission component to the output shaft. This frictional connection decouples the output shaft from direct torque effects during braking, allowing the output shaft to be made thinner, lighter, and more space-saving while maintaining structural integrity.
3Reliability
If a form-fitting locking means is used, then precise locking is achieved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means combines multiple functions into a single component: frictional connection for torque transmission, form-fitting means for precise locking, and integration with the braking device. This merging of functions achieves precise locking while minimizing structural complexity compared to separate locking and braking mechanisms.
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
Enables precise adjustment and reliable locking of carriers, reduces the risk of damage from torque peaks, and allows for a compact, space-saving design by decoupling the output shaft from torque effects during braking, ensuring the motorized joint remains undamaged and maintaining component service life.
Implementation Method 1
The locking device has a locking means which is frictionally connected to the transmission component that can be braked by means of the locking device
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a motorized articulation (1) for connecting two carriers (2, 3), which are movable relative to one another, of a programmable motion automaton, comprising a drive motor (4) and a locking device (16). A harmonic drive gear (6) is mounted downstream of the drive motor (4) in the drive train, wherein the locking device (16) is designed and arranged to directly brake and lock a transmission component of the harmonic drive gear (6).