Nested Lifting Column Structure for Long Travel and Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lifting columns have limited extension and stability, particularly under pressure and tension, due to their design with fewer column elements and a single drive arrangement.
Innovation Solution
A lifting column with at least five nested column elements and two drive arrangements, where the first drive arrangement moves the three innermost column elements and the second drive arrangement moves the three outermost column elements relative to each other, allowing for increased extension and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a single drive arrangement with a threaded spindle and spindle nut is used, then the lifting column can be compact and simple in structure, but the extension travel is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting column is divided into multiple column elements (at least five) that are arranged in nested fashion, with each element capable of relative movement. The drive arrangements are segmented into at least two separate units, each controlling specific column elements, allowing independent extension control of different sections to achieve greater total travel
Solution Approach 2:
The column elements are arranged in nested fashion where inner elements can move relative to outer elements. The drive arrangements are positioned within the nested structure, with at least one drive arrangement located inside another column element, utilizing the nested space efficiently while enabling extended travel
2Length of moving object
If cable pull systems are added to extend travel, then the extension range increases, but the stability under pressure and tension decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting column structure is segmented into multiple rigid column elements connected by drive arrangements with screw gears. This segmentation into rigid segments with mechanical coupling provides structural stability under load while allowing controlled extension through the nested movement of elements
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting column employs a composite mechanical structure combining multiple column elements made of load-bearing materials, interconnected through drive arrangements with threaded spindles and spindle nuts. This composite construction provides both extension capability and stability under pressure and tension
3Length of moving object
If more column elements are added to increase extension, then the travel distance increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple column elements are arranged in nested fashion where smaller elements fit within larger ones, allowing extensive travel distance while maintaining a compact retracted profile. The nested arrangement enables multiple elements to be accommodated without proportionally increasing the overall footprint or complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The drive arrangements are designed to perform multiple functions: they provide mechanical coupling between column elements, enable controlled extension and retraction, and maintain structural stability under load. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, managing 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 design achieves a greater extension compared to conventional lifting columns while maintaining stability under both pressure and tension, allowing for precise and robust movement of the lifting column portions.
Implementation Method 1
this motor drives a screw gear with a threaded spindle and a spindle nut
Data Source
AI summary
A lifting column includes at least five column elements which are at least partly nested, and a first and a second drive arrangement. The first drive arrangement is configured to move the three innermost column elements relative to one another. The second drive arrangement is configured to move the three outermost column elements relative to one another.