Multi-Actuator Rotator Assembly for Wide-Angle High-Torque Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional linear actuators are limited in generating rotary motion, often restricted to less than 180 degrees due to instability and loss of rotational force as the system approaches the 180-degree limit, making them unsuitable for wide-range rotational applications.
Innovation Solution
A multi-actuator rotator assembly utilizing a pair of linear actuators connected to a rotary link and rotating body, allowing for high torque rotational motion across a wide arc (200 degrees or more) through a simple mechanical configuration, enabling precise control and handling of heavy loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single linear actuator is used to generate rotary motion, then the device complexity is low, but the rotation angle is limited to less than 180 degrees due to instability and torque loss
Solution Approach 1:
The single actuator system is segmented into multiple actuators (first and second linear actuators) that work in coordination. Each actuator handles a portion of the rotational range, allowing the system to achieve rotation angles greater than 180 degrees while maintaining stability and torque throughout the full range of motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-degree-of-freedom actuator system to a multi-actuator system with coordinated control. By adding another actuator and implementing synchronized operation, the system expands its operational dimension to achieve wider rotation angles without compromising structural simplicity.
2Device complexity
If a linear actuator is connected directly between base and rotating body, then the mechanical configuration is simple, but the torque decreases to zero as the system approaches the 180 degree limit
Solution Approach 1:
The torque generation function is segmented between multiple actuators. The first linear actuator connects to a rotary link while the second linear actuator connects to the rotating body, creating distributed torque application points that maintain rotational force throughout the full range of motion without the torque collapse seen in single-actuator systems.
Solution Approach 2:
A rotary link is introduced as an intermediary component between the first linear actuator and the rotating body. This intermediary allows the actuators to apply force at optimal angles throughout the rotation range, maintaining torque consistency and preventing the torque from decreasing to zero near the 180-degree limit.
3Device complexity
If a single actuator system is used, then the system geometry is simple, but the rotation becomes unstable and the system may become locked at the 180 degree point
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational control function is segmented between multiple actuators, each managing a portion of the rotation range. This segmentation prevents any single actuator from reaching its mechanical limit where instability occurs, thereby eliminating the locking problem at 180 degrees while maintaining overall system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple actuators are merged into a coordinated system where their combined operation provides continuous rotational control. The first and second linear actuators work together to maintain stability throughout the full rotation range, combining their individual capabilities to overcome the limitations of a single actuator system.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-actuator rotator assembly includes a base, a rotary link coupled to the base and able to pivot relative to the base, a rotating body coupled to the base and able to pivot relative to the base, a first linear actuator connected to the base and to a first side of the rotary link, and a second linear actuator connected to a second side of the rotary link and to the rotating body.