Scissor Hand Controller With Circumferential Spring Biasing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional scissor-like hand controllers face limitations in providing precise control and durability due to their linear spring mechanisms, which can lead to non-linear force deflection curves and increased wear, especially when used in varied environments such as vehicles or in low-gravity conditions.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of a scissor assembly with a pivot pin and dynamic pin configuration, along with a biasing member positioned around the scissor apparatus, allows for multi-dimensional control and actuation between closed and open positions, utilizing circumferential biasing members that provide a more linear deflection force and reduce wear, enabling efficient movement and return to neutral positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a linear spring mechanism is used in conventional scissor-like hand controllers, then the structure is simple, but the force deflection curve becomes non-linear and wear increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidcontrol precision and durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the spring configuration from linear to circumferential arrangement around the scissor mechanism. This parameter change in spring geometry and orientation transforms the force deflection characteristics from non-linear to more linear, while also distributing wear more evenly across the mechanism components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces circumferential biasing members (springs) that are arranged in a curved or circular pattern around the scissor mechanism rather than linear alignment. This curvature in the spring arrangement creates a more linear force deflection curve and improves the mechanical characteristics of the hand controller

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

2Ease of operation

If conventional scissor-like mechanisms are used, then the hand controller can provide basic control, but precision and durability are limited especially in varied environments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebasic control capabilityVSAvoidcontrol precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The circumferential spring configuration changes the mechanical parameters of the scissor mechanism, creating a more linear force deflection curve that improves control precision. This parameter change allows for more accurate and predictable control responses across varied operating environments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Device complexity

If conventional spring mechanisms are used, then the hand controller structure is straightforward, but wear and tear increases reducing durability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanism simplicityVSAvoiddurability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By changing from linear to circumferential spring arrangement, the patent modifies the load distribution parameters across the scissor mechanism components. This results in more uniform wear distribution and reduced stress concentration, thereby extending the service life and durability of the hand controller

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The curved/circular arrangement of biasing members around the scissor mechanism creates a more favorable stress distribution pattern compared to linear springs. This geometric configuration reduces peak stresses and wear rates on critical components, improving overall durability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

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 enhances the precision and durability of hand controllers by allowing for controlled movement in multiple dimensions, reducing wear and tear, and facilitating easier replacement of biasing members, making them suitable for diverse environments and applications.

Implementation Method 1

A spring is coupled at each end to one of the handle portions so that the spring extends between the handle portions. The blade portions may be biased by the spring in a neutral position... The restoring force of the spring causes the hand controller to return to the neutral position when the hand controller is released.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11874683B1Hand controller
Publication Date: 2024.01.16 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AS REPRESENTED BY THE ADMINISTRATOR NAT AERONAUTICS & SPACE ADMINISTRATION
  • US11874683B1 patent drawing
  • US11874683B1 patent drawing
  • US11874683B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A scissor assembly includes a scissor apparatus having a first scissor jaw and a second scissor jaw that are coupled together. The first scissor jaw has a first jaw face, and the second scissor jaw has a second jaw face that opposes the first jaw face. The scissor apparatus is configured to actuate between a closed position and a plurality of open positions. The scissor assembly includes a pivot pin extending through the first and second scissor jaws. The first and second jaws are configured to rotate around the pivot pin as the scissor apparatus actuates between the closed position and the open positions. The scissor assembly includes a dynamic pin positioned between the first jaw face and the second jaw face. The scissor assembly includes a biasing member positioned at least partially around the scissor apparatus and configured to bias the scissor apparatus toward the closed position.