Threaded Spindle Actuator Switching With Minimal Axial Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuators with threaded spindles face challenges in achieving a compact and cost-effective design with minimal axial clearance, particularly in applications like operating tables and treatment chairs, where space is limited and precise control of the threaded spindle's extension is necessary.
Innovation Solution
The actuator design incorporates a threaded spindle with self-locking spindle nuts and deep groove ball bearings to minimize axial clearance, along with an actuating element attached to the housing that interacts with switches to control the spindle's movement and switch off the drive, ensuring a compact and reliable construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two switches are disposed on the housing with clamping rings on the threaded spindle, then the actuator can be switched off at extreme positions, but the axial extension of the subassembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating element combines multiple functions: it serves as both the switching mechanism and the mechanical stop for the threaded spindle. By integrating the stop function into the actuating element itself rather than requiring separate mechanical stops, the design reduces axial extension while maintaining the ability to switch off the actuator at extreme positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating element performs multiple roles simultaneously: it actuates the switch to turn off the drive, serves as a mechanical stop to prevent over-travel of the threaded spindle, and provides a compact structure that reduces axial dimension. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between reliability and compactness.
2Ease of operation
If a complex circuit board is used for switching, then the actuator can be controlled, but the construction becomes less cost-effective and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the switching function from a complex circuit board and implements it through a simple mechanical switch actuated by the actuating element. This removes the need for complex electronic control circuits while maintaining the ability to control and switch off the actuator, thereby reducing construction complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating element automatically actuates the switch through its own movement when the threaded spindle reaches the extreme position. This self-actuating mechanism eliminates the need for external control systems or complex circuit boards, achieving cost-effective and simple construction while maintaining operational control.
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator includes at least one threaded spindle, at least one switch, at least one actuating element configured to actuate the switch, and at least one housing relative to which the threaded spindle is movable. The actuating element is attached to the housing. The housing may include at least one wall extending circumferentially around the threaded spindle and a first axial end wall and a second axial end wall, and the threaded spindle may pass through the first and second axial end walls. The first axial end wall may overlie the at least one switch, and a first end of the at least one actuating element may be connected to the housing and a second end of the at least one actuating element may extend between the at least one switch and the first axial end wall.