Phased Cam and Linear Actuator Torque Range Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for translating linear motion into rotational torque on a shaft lack efficient control over torque application and range, particularly in varying operational conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a shaft with cams having involute and circular portions, coupled with linear actuators that detachably engage and disengage based on reference angles and positions, allowing for controlled torque application through hydraulic or pneumatic pressure adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single cam and linear actuator system is used, then the structure is simple, but the control over torque ranges and operational flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the cam into multiple segments (first cam with involute portion, second cam with involute portion) that can be independently engaged by different linear actuators. This segmentation allows selective engagement of specific cam-actuator pairs based on operational requirements, enabling variable torque control without requiring a completely different mechanism for each torque level.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic engagement and disengagement of linear actuators with cams based on shaft angle and position feedback. The reference angle and reference position triggers enable the system to adaptively select which cam-actuator pair is active, providing dynamic torque control across different operational phases rather than a fixed configuration.
2Productivity
If linear actuators are continuously engaged with cams, then torque is continuously applied, but the ability to optimize torque application based on shaft position is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures multiple cam profiles with different involute portions designed for specific torque requirements. Before the shaft reaches a particular angular position, the appropriate linear actuator is already positioned and ready to engage with the corresponding cam, ensuring optimal torque application from the outset of each operational phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses reference angle and reference position feedback to determine when to engage or disengage linear actuators from cams. This feedback mechanism allows the control system to monitor shaft position and trigger actuator engagement/disengagement at precise moments, optimizing torque application efficiency while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cams and linear actuators are used, then torque control flexibility is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each linear actuator is designed to be universally compatible with multiple cam profiles, and each cam is designed with standardized involute portions that can be engaged by any actuator. This universality allows the same actuator-cam components to serve multiple functions across different torque ranges and operational modes, reducing the need for entirely separate mechanisms for each function.
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 control over torque ranges by engaging and disengaging linear actuators with cams, optimizing torque application based on shaft angles and positions, enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A cross-section of the first cam includes an involute portion. The system additionally includes a second cam coupled to the shaft. A cross-section of the second cam includes an involute portion.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a system that uses linear actuators to generate a torque on a shaft. In an example implementation, a system may include a shaft and an attached cam. The cam includes an involute portion. The system also includes a first linear actuator and a second linear actuator configured to move along a first axis and a second axis, respectively. The linear actuators are configured to detachably couple to the cam based on at least a reference angle of the shaft. That is, as the shaft rotates about its rotational axis at the reference angle, the first and the second linear actuators may couple to, and decouple from, various portions of the cam. As the linear actuators couple to, and decouple from, the various portions of the cam, different rotational torques and/or different ranges of such torques may be imparted onto the shaft.