Offset Cam Follower Reduces Friction in Rotary Reciprocating Power Transfer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power transfer devices, such as rotary cam-operated compressors and internal combustion engines, face inefficiencies due to friction between the follower and the cam, limiting their performance and output.
Innovation Solution
Offsetting two cylinders from the central axis and using a follower with offsets at both ends to reduce friction between the follower and the cam, allowing for improved power transfer efficiency and enabling operation in both directions of piston motion without increasing device size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional cam-operated power transfer devices are used with cylinders aligned on the central axis, then the structure is simple, but friction between the follower and cam is high reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by offsetting the cylinders from the central axis and providing offsets at both ends of the follower. This asymmetric configuration changes the contact geometry between the follower and cam, reducing friction during power transfer while maintaining structural feasibility through the offset arrangement.
2Productivity
If the device size is increased to improve power transfer efficiency, then output increases, but the device becomes larger and less compact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the offset arrangement in a spatial dimension away from the central axis, allowing the cylinders to be positioned radially outward. This dimensional change enables increased output through improved friction reduction while maintaining a compact overall device footprint by utilizing the radial space rather than increasing axial length.
3Loss of energy
If a follower with offsets at both ends is used to reduce friction, then power transfer efficiency improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The follower is segmented into distinct sections with offsets at both ends, allowing each section to be manufactured separately and then assembled. This segmentation reduces the manufacturing complexity of the overall follower by breaking down the complex offset geometry into manageable segments that can be produced using standard machining operations and then joined together.
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
This configuration enhances the efficiency of power transfer by reducing friction and increasing output without enlarging the device, allowing for oil-free operation in compressors and improved performance in various applications like pumps, compressors, and internal combustion engines.
Implementation Method 1
The present invention is premised on the realization that the efficiency of such a power transfer device can be improved by offsetting two cylinders from the central axis of the device and utilizing a follower connected to pistons wherein the follower has offsets at both ends. This reduces the friction between the follower and the cam, improving efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus to transfer power from rotary power to reciprocating power includes an odd numbered multi-lobed rotating cam that acts on a follower, which, in turn, causes or acts in response to reciprocation of pistons. The follower includes offset head portions and the cylinders, in turn are actually offset in the direction of the head portions. This reduces friction and improves efficiency. Further, the cylinders can include two inlets and two outlets so that each cylinder functions when the piston moves in either direction within the cylinder.