Precision Trigger Mechanism for Accurate Device Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing triggering mechanisms fail to accurately test devices with varying degrees of durability and intricacy, as they apply forces that do not reflect normal use, often causing premature failure in more delicate or intricate devices.
Innovation Solution
A precision triggering mechanism incorporating an electric linear motor, force limiter, force sensor, and controller, which allows for adjustable force limits and precise actuation, enabling the mechanism to push buttons or components with controlled force and distance, while the force limiter provides protection against excessive forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If a hydraulic piston driver is used to repeatedly push buttons for durability testing, then the testing can be performed for extended periods, but the applied forces do not reflect normal use and cause premature failure in delicate devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hydraulic piston mechanical system with an electric linear motor system that provides precise positional control and force control through electronic feedback mechanisms, enabling accurate reproduction of normal use conditions while maintaining extended testing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control using position sensors to detect the linear position of the drive rod and force sensors to detect the amount of force applied, with the controller adjusting driver parameters based on this feedback to maintain precise actuation within specified tolerances over extended testing periods
2Strength
If high force is applied to test durable devices, then durability can be assessed, but intricate devices with specific engagement requirements suffer premature failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic adjustment of force parameters through the controller, which modifies driver parameters based on feedback from position and force sensors, allowing the system to adapt force magnitude to match the specific requirements of different devices being tested
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a static, fixed-force hydraulic system to a dynamic electric linear motor system that can continuously adjust force and position parameters in real-time based on feedback, enabling the system to respond to the specific characteristics of each device under test
3Ease of operation
If a fixed-force triggering mechanism is used, then the mechanism is simple to operate, but it cannot accommodate devices with varying durability requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal testing system that can accommodate devices with varying durability requirements through programmable force and position parameters, sensor feedback control, and the ability to test different types of components (buttons, switches, sensors) with their specific engagement characteristics
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-adjusting capabilities where the system automatically adjusts its operation based on feedback from sensors and pre-programmed parameters, eliminating the need for manual adjustment while maintaining adaptability to different device requirements
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 solution enables more accurate testing of devices by applying precise forces and distances, reducing the risk of premature failure and ensuring the mechanism can safely engage and disengage without damaging the tested components.
Implementation Method 1
an electric linear motor including a drive rod, a driver that applies a force to the drive rod to move the drive rod linearly
Implementation Method 2
The force sensor is connected to the force limiter and is configured to detect an amount of force applied by the force limiter on the force sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A precision triggering mechanism for engaging a portion of a device and a method of using the same are provided. The mechanism comprises an electric linear motor, a force limiter, a force sensor, an engagement slide, and a controller. The electric linear motor includes a drive rod, a driver that applies a force to the drive rod to move the drive rod linearly, and a sensor for detecting a linear position of the drive rod. The force limiter is connected to the drive rod and is configured to absorb an amount of axial force asserted by the drive rod above a maximum amount. The force sensor is connected to the force limiter and is configured to detect an amount of force applied by the force limiter on the force sensor. The engagement slide includes an end extending from the force sensor for engaging the portion of the device. The controller is configured to receive a signal representative of the linear position of the drive rod from the sensor of the electric linear motor; receive from the force sensor a signal representative of the amount of force applied by the force limiter; and direct the driver of the electric linear motor to apply a force to the drive rod based on at least one of the linear position of the drive rod or the amount of force applied by the force limiter.