Compound Rotary Lock Actuator for High-Load Linear Locking

The patent extracts the locking function from the synchronization system by providing a dedicated lock mechanism with a lock sleeve and lock key that operate independently. The lock key is directly engaged with the output ram, eliminating the need for synchronization system engagement to achieve locking, thus improving reliability while reducing complexity.

The locking system is segmented into distinct components: a lock sleeve that rotates independently, a lock key that engages with the output ram, and a rotation-to-linear conversion mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, with the lock key providing direct locking without involving the synchronization system.

The lock sleeve is nested within the actuator housing and rotates within the existing structure. The lock key is nested within the output ram, with grooves and protrusions that engage without adding external components. This nesting approach provides direct locking capability while minimizing the increase in actuator mass.

The lock sleeve serves multiple functions: it houses the lock key, provides the rotation-to-linear conversion mechanism, and engages with the output ram for direct locking. By making the lock sleeve multi-functional, the design avoids adding separate components that would increase actuator mass.

Instead of using a flexing element to achieve locking, the patent inverts the approach by using a rigid lock key with grooves that engage with corresponding protrusions on the output ram. The locking is achieved through mechanical interference rather than flexing, eliminating fatigue concerns while maintaining a single-piece housing structure.

The patent replaces the flexing lock element mechanism with a groove-and-protrusion engagement system. The lock key has circumferential grooves that receive protrusions from the output ram, creating a rigid mechanical connection that eliminates the need for flexing and thereby eliminates fatigue-related reliability issues.

The patent transitions from point contact (ball locks) to line contact by using circumferential grooves in the lock key that engage with protrusions along the output ram. This dimensional change from zero-dimensional point contact to one-dimensional line contact distributes the load over a larger area, significantly increasing external load carrying capability while maintaining reliable locking.

The lock key serves as an intermediary between the lock sleeve and the output ram. It has grooves that receive protrusions from the output ram, creating a distributed contact interface. This intermediary structure transfers loads effectively from the output ram through the lock key to the lock sleeve, enabling high load carrying capability.

The lock sleeve's rotation automatically converts to linear motion of the lock key through the screw lead and nut mechanism. As the lock sleeve rotates, the screw lead advances the nut linearly, which in turn moves the lock key axially to engage or disengage from the output ram. This self-service mechanism provides reliable locking with minimal additional complexity.

The patent merges the rotation-to-linear conversion mechanism directly into the lock sleeve structure. The screw lead is integrated with the lock sleeve, and the nut is integrated with the lock key assembly. This merging eliminates the need for separate conversion mechanisms and reduces overall complexity while maintaining reliable locking capability.