Piezo Actuator Wing Locking Device Wear Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing piezoelectric actuators used in door locking devices wear out quickly and cannot adjust for tolerances in the rod or guide mount, leading to inefficiencies in frictional engagement and locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a piezoelectric actuator supported by an adjusting screw in the slider, featuring braking elements with inclined surfaces and an elastic element for controlled force application, allowing for efficient locking and release, and powered by a low-current piezo actuator with optional autonomous power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the piezoelectric actuator itself acts as a braking and clamping element, then the locking function is achieved, but the actuator is subject to wear and wears out quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is segmented into distinct functional components: the piezoelectric actuator (for generating motion), the braking element (for creating frictional engagement), and the actuating element (for transmitting force). This segmentation allows the actuator to perform only its function of generating mechanical displacement without being subjected to wear from frictional engagement, thereby extending its lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The braking element acts as an intermediary between the actuator and the rod/guide receptacle. Instead of the actuator directly engaging in frictional contact, the braking element mediates this interaction, absorbing the wear and allowing the actuator to operate without direct contact with the locking surfaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the piezoelectric actuator is used directly as the locking element, then the structure is simple, but it cannot adjust for tolerances in the rod or guide mount
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates adjustable components (the braking element and actuating element with inclined surfaces) that can be positioned and adjusted to compensate for manufacturing tolerances in the rod or guide mount. This dynamic adjustability allows the system to adapt to varying dimensional tolerances while maintaining proper frictional engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct mechanical coupling of the actuator to the locking mechanism with an adjustable mechanical linkage system involving the actuating element and braking element. This substitution introduces adjustment capability while maintaining the core piezoelectric actuation mechanism.
3Speed
If frictional engagement is used for locking, then the locking function is achieved, but the actuator experiences delayed actuation due to play in the mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The adjusting screw is used to pre-position the actuator and eliminate play in the mechanism before actuation occurs. By preliminarily adjusting the positions of the actuator, actuating element, and braking element, the system ensures that when voltage is applied, there is no delay caused by mechanical clearance, resulting in immediate and precise actuation.
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 extends the lifespan of the piezoelectric actuator, provides adjustable locking without play, and enables efficient, autonomous operation with reduced wear and improved frictional engagement, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of door locking mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
When an electrical voltage is applied, piezo actuators experience a change in shape
Implementation Method 2
An elastic element, for example a spring, can be provided between the braking elements, which returns the braking elements to release the locking
Implementation Method 3
The braking properties of the braking elements and the inner wall of the slide rail can be influenced by friction linings or by surface treatment
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The device involves a motor (1) that is connected to a slide arm (6) in which a slider (7) is located in a slide rail (5). The slide arm can be blocked from changing shape via an electrically activated Piezo actuator (8). The piezo actuator is arranged in the slider, with at least one brake element (10) being loaded with a force via the piezo actuator. The brake element is pushed to adjust the slider on the wall of the slide rail. There may be an operating element (9) for transferring the power operation via a shape alteration of the Piezo actuator in the brake element.