Planetary Gear Linear Drive for Compact High-Torque Valve Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear drives used in subsea shut-off devices are often too large or require increased torque at the same construction size, which is a challenge for compact and efficient operation in deep water applications.
Innovation Solution
A compact linear drive design utilizing a planetary gear system with two crankshafts and connecting rods, where the planetary gear is driven by a motor and configured to provide a high transmission ratio, allowing for increased torque while maintaining a compact size, and is integrated with an electric motor for enhanced performance in confined spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a conventional linear drive is used for subsea shut-off devices, then the drive can convert rotational movement to linear movement, but the construction size becomes too large and torque is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The planetary gear system is segmented into multiple gear sets (first and second planetary gear sets) with different transmission ratios, allowing the system to provide multiple torque levels while maintaining a compact structure. Each gear set handles specific torque requirements, enabling the drive to achieve high torque when needed without permanently increasing construction size.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear drive employs a dynamic transmission ratio that can be changed during operation. The switching mechanism allows transition between different planetary gear sets, enabling the system to adapt torque output to actual operational needs. This dynamic adjustment capability provides high torque during valve actuation while maintaining compact dimensions during normal operation.
2Volume of moving object
If the linear drive is made more compact, then the construction size is reduced, but the torque output decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The planetary gear system employs nested gear arrangements where planetary gears are positioned within the annular gear structure. This nesting allows multiple gear sets to be arranged in a compact, space-efficient configuration, maximizing torque density while minimizing overall construction volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement of the planetary gear sets, arranging them along the rotational axis rather than in a planar layout. This dimensional approach allows the system to achieve high torque output in a compact footprint by efficiently utilizing vertical space within the drive housing.
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 high reaction moment and compact configuration, enabling efficient operation in deep water environments by distributing power effectively through the planetary gear system, allowing for increased torque and reduced size, thus addressing the need for more compact and powerful linear drives.
Implementation Method 1
a planetary gear for rotationally driving the first crankshaft and the second crankshaft
Implementation Method 2
a first crankshaft associated with a piston rod via a first connecting rod, a second crankshaft associated with a piston rod via a second connecting rod
Data Source
AI summary
Linear drive, in particular for converting a rotational movement into a linear movement for actuating a valve including a shut-off slide, having a crank mechanism, the linear drive comprising a first crankshaft associated with a piston rod via a first connecting rod, a second crankshaft associated with the piston rod via a second connecting rod, and a planetary gear for rotationally driving the first crankshaft and the second crankshaft.