Rotary Actuator Interface Helical Guide Slots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interfaces between rotary actuators and linear controllers are not sufficiently rugged for field applications, particularly in corrosive environments, and lack adequate bearing support and weatherproofing for long-term use.
Innovation Solution
A rotary actuator interface featuring a housing with a cylindrical interior chamber, a central body interconnected with the linear controller, and a rotary sleeve with helical guide slots for drive pins, which minimizes unbalanced forces and provides robust bearing support through needle bearings and friction-reducing rollers, ensuring reliable operation in harsh conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rotary actuator interface is used to convert rotary motion to linear motion, then the actuator can control movement of the linear controller, but the interface is not sufficiently rugged for field applications including corrosive environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a sealed housing structure with protective coatings and corrosion-resistant materials to shield internal components from corrosive environments. The housing acts as a protective barrier that maintains the integrity of the interface while allowing it to withstand harsh field conditions including exposure to corrosive substances.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If existing interface designs are used, then the actuator can operate, but they do not provide sufficient bearing support or weatherproofing for long term use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates dynamic sealing mechanisms and self-adjusting bearing support systems that adapt to operational conditions. The bearing support structure is designed to maintain optimal clearance and load distribution during extended operation, while weatherproofing seals dynamically respond to environmental changes to prevent ingress of contaminants over the long term.
3Force
If the rotary sleeve rotates to produce linear motion, then the central body moves axially, but frictional torque losses occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional high-friction mechanical contact interfaces with low-friction bearing elements and optimized surface treatments. The rotary sleeve incorporates roller bearings or needle bearings that substitute sliding friction with rolling friction, significantly reducing torque losses while maintaining effective axial force generation during the conversion of rotary to linear motion.
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 enhances the ruggedness and reliability of the interface, enabling it to withstand corrosive environments and provide sufficient bearing support, ensuring long-term operation with low frictional torque losses and high axial force generation, making it suitable for oilfield and chemical operations.
Implementation Method 1
The rotary sleeve has a plurality of guide slots each for receiving a respective one of the drive pins, with the guide slots each being helical such that rotation of the sleeve results in linear motion of the central body.
Implementation Method 2
One or more bearings in the housing guide rotation of the rotary sleeve relative to the housing
Data Source
AI summary
A rotary actuator (10) rotates a drive shaft (40), which in turn rotates a stem (76) between an actuator housing (32) and a central body (48). Drive pins (50, 52) extend between the central body of a rotary sleeve (42), and move within helical guide slots (80, 82) to linearly raise and lower the central body (48), which is connected to the linear controller (18).