Damping apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-centering damping mechanisms are susceptible to contamination from debris and external elements, and solar tracking systems require large motors and gearboxes to compensate for moments induced when solar panels are rotated off horizontal, which is inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A self-centering damping apparatus with a pre-compressed mechanical spring contained within a housing, where the spring is operatively connected to a piston rod via retaining members and applies force to both the rod and housing surfaces, minimizing exposure to contaminants and eliminating the need for large motors and gearboxes by compensating for torque in solar tracking systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the coil compression spring is disposed outside the body housing the piston rod, then the spring is accessible for installation and maintenance, but the spring is susceptible to contamination from debris and other external elements
Solution Approach 1:
The coil compression spring is nested inside the body housing, with the spring positioned within the cylindrical body alongside the piston rod. This nesting arrangement protects the spring from external contaminants while maintaining system functionality, as the body acts as a protective enclosure for both the spring and piston rod components
2Reliability
If larger motors and gearboxes are used to compensate for the moment induced when solar panels are rotated off horizontal, then the solar tracking system can maintain panel alignment, but the system becomes more complex and less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coil compression spring acts as a counterweight mechanism, positioned to oppose the moment induced by solar panel rotation. The spring provides a restoring force that automatically counteracts the gravitational moment when panels are rotated off-horizontal, eliminating the need for large motors and gearboxes to compensate for this moment
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-based self-centering mechanism provides automatic compensation for the induced moment without requiring external power sources or complex control systems. The spring naturally opposes the moment and centers the panel assembly, making the system self-regulating and eliminating the need for additional motors or gearboxes
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 effectively minimizes contamination of the spring and reduces the need for large motors and gearboxes in solar tracking systems by maintaining the spring within the housing and using the spring's force to center the damping apparatus, thereby optimizing energy collection and reducing mechanical complexity.
Implementation Method 1
A mechanical spring can be operatively connected to the rod and contained within the interior of the housing. The mechanical spring applies force to an outer surface of the rod and the interior surface of the housing.
Data Source
AI summary
A damping apparatus can be self-centering and include one or more pre-compressed and preloaded mechanical springs. A solar tracking apparatus can include a solar panel mounted on a rotating shaft, and a self-centering damping apparatus operatively connected to the rotating shaft to compensate for torque created when the solar panel is rotated at an angle to horizontal. A steering assembly for a zero-turn riding lawn mower can include a pair of steering levers and a self-centering damping apparatus operatively connected to the steering levers.