Parallel Link Braking Mechanism With Shared Shaft Brake
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing parallel link mechanisms are large in size due to the inclusion of individual emergency brakes for each motor, which hinders further downsizing and increases interference with other devices.
Innovation Solution
A collective braking system is implemented using a braking unit with multiple braking pads and a switching unit operated by an actuator, allowing simultaneous braking or release of multiple drive shafts, eliminating the need for individual actuators on each motor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual emergency brakes are provided for each motor, then reliable braking is ensured, but the overall size of the parallel link mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual braking systems are merged into a single collective braking unit. The patent combines multiple braking pads and a single actuator into one integrated braking unit that can simultaneously brake multiple drive shafts, replacing what would otherwise require multiple separate braking units and actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The single braking unit is designed to perform multiple functions by selectively engaging different braking pads with different drive shafts. The switching unit enables one braking unit to universally serve multiple motors, allowing the same hardware to brake any combination of drive shafts as needed.
2Reliability
If individual actuators are installed on each motor for emergency braking, then rapid response is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual actuators are merged into a single actuator that controls the entire braking unit. This single actuator simultaneously actuates multiple braking pads, eliminating the need for multiple separate actuators while maintaining the ability to rapidly engage braking on multiple shafts at once.
Solution Approach 2:
The braking unit is segmented into multiple independently controllable braking pads, each capable of engaging a specific drive shaft. The switching unit segments the control function, allowing selective engagement of different braking pads while being driven by a single actuator through a switching mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If multiple motors and individual braking systems are used, then each motor can be independently braked, but interference with other devices increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple distributed braking systems are merged into one centralized braking unit with a compact design. By consolidating the braking functionality into a single location rather than distributing separate actuators on each motor, the mechanism occupies less space and reduces interference with other devices while maintaining independent control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single braking unit provides universal braking capability for multiple drive shafts through the switching unit, which can route the single actuator's force to any required braking pad. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for dedicated actuators on each motor, reducing spatial interference.
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 solution enables a more compact design by reducing the overall size of the parallel link mechanism while ensuring reliable and rapid braking, minimizing interference with other devices and reducing motor damage.
Implementation Method 1
a braking unit (140)... including a plurality of braking pads (142a, 142b)... switch between a contact state in which the plurality of braking pads (142a, 142b) are in contact with the plurality of drive shafts (131)
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a parallel link mechanism includes a base portion, a movable portion, a braking unit, motors, links, and a switching unit. The movable portion is separated from the base portion in a first direction. The braking unit is provided between the base portion and the movable portion, and includes braking pads. The motors are provided around the braking unit, and each include a drive shaft extending along a direction intersecting the first direction. The links are each coupled between the drive shafts and the movable portion. The switching unit is provided between the base portion and the movable portion. The switching unit is configured to switch, by moving the braking pads, between a contact state in which the braking pads are in contact with the drive shafts and a non-contact state in which the braking pads are separated from the drive shafts.