Roller device with eccentric wheel axle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rolling devices for moving heavy or cumbersome objects lack a simple and reliable mechanism for easily switching between a retracted position, where the wheel element is prevented from moving along a surface, and an extended position, where the wheel element is prepared for movement.
Innovation Solution
A rolling device with a compact construction that includes a bearing housing, axle support members, and a drive motor, which allows the wheel element to be displaced between an extended and retracted position through an eccentric movement, controlled by locking means and a motor, facilitating easy switching between operation modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mechanical click system with spring is used to move the wheel between positions, then the wheel can be positioned between upper and lower positions, but the device complexity increases due to multiple mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical click system with spring with an electromechanical actuator system. The actuator uses electrical signals to control the wheel position, eliminating the need for complex mechanical components like springs and click mechanisms. This substitution reduces device complexity while maintaining the ability to position the wheel between extended and retracted positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves multiple functions: it extends the wheel for movement, retracts the wheel for stability, and can be controlled wirelessly. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate mechanical systems into a single integrated component, reducing overall device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If an automatic actuator system with wireless control is used, then the wheel can be moved automatically between positions, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control system from the mechanical structure by using wireless control. The actuator is controlled remotely via wireless signals, separating the control function from the physical device. This reduces the complexity of the on-device components while maintaining automatic positioning capability.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact construction is implemented, then the device size is reduced, but the reliability of wheel positioning may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic positioning system where the wheel can be actively moved between extended and retracted positions using the actuator. This dynamic control ensures reliable positioning despite the compact size, as the actuator can precisely control the wheel position rather than relying on passive mechanical stops or springs.
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 provides a simple, reliable, and compact mechanism for controlling the wheel element's position, enabling efficient movement and easy retraction of the rolling device, thus addressing the limitations of prior art solutions.
Implementation Method 1
The wheel axle (8) is arranged for carrying the wheel element (6) in between the axle support members (3), wherein each of the end portions of the wheel axle (8) is connected to each axle support members (3) in an eccentric position displaced off-set from a center line of the axle support members (3), which also forms a rotational axis of the wheel axle (8)
Data Source
AI summary
A rolling device having a bearing housing accommodating a wheel axle,a drive motor with first and second motor parts for conduction of relative rotation between a wheel element and the wheel axle,end portions of the wheel axle being connected to axle support members in an eccentric position displaced from the center line of the axle support members, and locksoperable between an unlocked position allowing rotation of the axle support members relative to the bearing housing, and a locking position preventing the rotation of the axle support members, wherein in the unlocked position, the motor conducts rotation of the axle support members and wheel axis for displacement of the wheel element by an eccentric movement between an extended position where at least a portion of the wheel element projects outside the bearing housing and a retracted position where the wheel element is located inside the bearing housing.