Compact Vibration Simulator Using Four-Bar Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing three-degree of freedom vibration simulators are complex, expensive, and require a high number of actuators, making them unsuitable for compact and cost-effective applications such as in-cockpit simulation.
Innovation Solution
A compact vibration simulator design using a four-bar-linkage mechanism with three actuators, each forming a universal joint assembly that allows movement in three translational degrees of freedom, utilizing rotary actuators for efficient high-frequency vibration simulation and incorporating a stiffening assembly for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a two degree of freedom Cartesian slideway is used to provide movement in perpendicular horizontal directions, then translational movement in all three degrees of freedom is achieved, but the device requires a high number of actuators and is relatively complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuators into a single integrated actuator assembly that provides movement in multiple directions simultaneously. The actuator assembly includes a linear actuator and a rotary actuator working together through a common mounting structure, reducing the total number of separate actuators needed while maintaining three-degree-of-freedom translational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator assembly is designed to perform multiple functions through a single integrated structure. The linear actuator component serves both as a translational actuator and as part of the mounting structure for the rotary actuator, making the system more efficient and less complex
2Adaptability or versatility
If three vertically oriented actuators are used with horizontal slideways to move the seat in translational degrees of freedom, then movement in three degrees of freedom is achieved, but the mechanism is complex and large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple separate actuators into a single compact actuator assembly. The linear actuator and rotary actuator are mounted together on a common structure, significantly reducing the overall volume required compared to three separate vertically oriented actuators with horizontal slideways
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a vertical actuator orientation to a horizontal actuator assembly that provides translational movement through a different geometric arrangement. The actuator assembly uses a combination of linear and rotary motion in a horizontal plane to achieve the same translational degrees of freedom with reduced vertical clearance and compact overall dimensions
3Ease of operation
If linear actuators are used to provide translational movement, then movement in translational degrees of freedom is achieved, but a brake is required to stop them in emergency situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the linear actuator with a rotary actuator that drives a crank mechanism. The rotary actuator inherently provides easier stopping control through its rotational nature and does not require a separate brake mechanism, eliminating the complexity of emergency stopping systems while maintaining translational movement capability
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a linear actuator that moves directly in the translational direction and requires braking to stop, the patent inverts the approach by using a rotary actuator that drives a crank mechanism. The rotational motion is converted to translational motion through the crank, providing a more convenient stopping mechanism inherent in the rotary drive system
Data Source
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AI summary
A movement simulator [100] has at least three translational degrees of freedom and has at least three actuator assemblies [106, 108, 110] each of which having a four bar parallelogram / trapezoidal link arrangement. A stiffener [214] is also disclosed.