Rotary Motor Elastic Deformation Torque Size Trade-off

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional inchworm-type rotary motors using piezoelectric elements face challenges such as low torque output and larger size due to clamping and driving member configurations.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates two clamping members and a driving member with piezoelectric units that elastically deform to grip and rotate a rotor, allowing for larger torque output while reducing motor size through a compact mechanism.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If a conventional inchworm-type motor uses clamping members and driving members, then torque output is limited, but the motor size cannot be reduced further

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque outputVSAvoidmotor size
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the clamping member and driving member into a single integrated structure where the clamping member serves dual functions: gripping the rotor and transmitting driving force through the elastic deformation of the rotation unit. This eliminates the need for separate clamping and driving members, reducing overall motor size while maintaining torque output capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an elastic deformation mechanism in the rotation unit that dynamically changes the transmission force direction. The rotation unit elastically deforms to change the direction of transmission force from the clamping member to the rotor, enabling effective torque transmission in a compact configuration without requiring additional mechanical components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Speed

If piezoelectric elements are used for actuation, then high output speed is achieved, but output force becomes very low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput speedVSAvoidoutput force
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes the vibrational deformation of piezoelectric elements to drive the rotation unit. The piezoelectric elements undergo rapid elastic deformation at high frequency, creating oscillatory motion that is converted into rotational movement of the rotor through the elastic deformation mechanism, achieving both high speed and adequate force output.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #18Mechanical vibration

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational parameters of piezoelectric elements from static positioning to dynamic oscillatory deformation. By controlling the frequency and amplitude of piezoelectric element deformation, the system achieves high-speed rotation while maintaining sufficient output force through the mechanical advantage of the elastic deformation mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If continuous contact is maintained between motion generating unit and shaft, then motion control is achieved, but reverse direction motion occurs after instantaneous actuation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotion controlVSAvoidmotion direction stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs periodic actuation of piezoelectric elements in sequence rather than continuous simultaneous actuation. The clamping members are activated in a periodic sequence, creating a ratcheting effect where each activation advances the rotor in one direction only, preventing reverse motion while maintaining precise control through the periodic engagement cycle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 configuration enables a significant increase in torque output while minimizing the motor's size, achieving a more efficient and compact rotary motor design.

Implementation Method 1

the clamping member may further include a piezoelectric unit configured to elastically deform in one direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 2

having a rotation unit configured to make an elastic deformation to rotate by a predetermined angle and then return to an original state

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11533004B2Rotary motor having a rotation unit configured to make an elastic deformation
Publication Date: 2022.12.20 KOREA INST OF SCI & TECH
  • US11533004B2 patent drawing
  • US11533004B2 patent drawing
  • US11533004B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a rotary motor, which includes: a clamping member having a gripping unit installed at an inner circumference of a rotor to grip the rotor during a predetermined time; and a driving member installed at the inner circumference of the rotor and having a rotation unit configured to make an elastic deformation to rotate by a predetermined angle and then return to an original state so that the rotor is rotated.