Rotary Flex Joint Assembly for Low-Friction Motion Conversion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mechanical systems require multiple moving parts and bearings to convert between linear and rotary motion, which can lead to increased friction, maintenance needs, and reduced efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The use of a rotary flex joint apparatus that incorporates a plate, wobbler assembly, and flexure assemblies to convert between linear and rotary motion, reducing the number of moving parts and relying on flexures to store energy elastically rather than dissipate it through friction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple moving parts and bearings are used to convert between linear and rotary motion, then the conversion function is achieved, but friction increases and maintenance needs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconversion functionVSAvoidfriction

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical bearings and moving parts with a flexure-based mechanism. The flexure assemblies convert linear motion to rotary motion through elastic deformation rather than mechanical contact, eliminating friction associated with bearings and reducing energy loss.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs flexure assemblies that utilize flexible elastic materials to achieve motion conversion. These flexible elements deform elastically to transform linear motion into rotary motion without requiring rigid mechanical contacts or bearings, thereby reducing friction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Reliability

If multiple moving parts and bearings are used to convert between linear and rotary motion, then the conversion function is achieved, but maintenance needs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconversion functionVSAvoidmaintenance needs

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The flexure assemblies are designed to be self-lubricating through their elastic material properties, requiring no external maintenance or lubrication systems. The elastic deformation and recovery of the flexure elements provides inherent protection against wear and friction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Loss of energy

If flexures are used to store energy elastically, then friction is reduced, but the number of moving parts is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovefrictionVSAvoidnumber of moving parts

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functions into the flexure assemblies: they simultaneously act as motion converters, energy storage elements, and friction-reducing mechanisms. The flexure assemblies integrate the motion conversion function and energy storage function into a single component system, reducing the overall number of moving parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The flexure assemblies serve multiple purposes: converting linear motion to rotary motion, storing energy elastically during the conversion cycle, and eliminating friction by replacing traditional mechanical contacts. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 reduces the number of moving parts and friction surfaces, enhancing efficiency and reducing maintenance needs while effectively converting between linear and rotary motion in a bidirectional manner.

Implementation Method 1

relying on flexures to store energy elastically rather than dissipate it through friction

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11536353B1Apparatus and method for converting between linear and rotary motion and systems involving the same

Publication Date: 2022.12.27 SENCERA ENERGY INC

AI summary

An apparatus and a method for converting linear motion to rotary motion are provided. In some embodiments, the apparatus may include a plate having a plurality of connection points and a channel. The apparatus may also include a wobbler having an end that extends along the first axis and a cylindrical body having a second axis that is offset from the first axis by a first angle. The plate may be rotatably connected to the cylindrical body and configured to rotate about the second axis. The apparatus may further include a plurality of flexure assemblies connected to the plurality of connection points of the plate.