Step Actuator Modular Housing Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing step actuators face challenges in securely and easily coupling to a case, limiting their application in devices requiring stable and efficient linear motion conversion from rotational movement.

Innovation Solution

The step actuator apparatus features a novel structure with a cylindrical first housing and second housing, incorporating a stator, rotor, screw member, and nut member assembly, along with a bearing and joint system, which allows for secure and easy coupling to a circuit board module through a combination of mechanical and thermal bonding methods.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional step actuator structure is used, then the basic linear motion function is achieved, but the coupling to the case is not secure and difficult to implement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling securityVSAvoidcoupling difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The step actuator is divided into modular components including a first housing, second housing, circuit board module, and coupling components. This segmentation allows each part to be independently manufactured and assembled, making the coupling process easier while maintaining secure connections through standardized interfaces between modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a nested structure where the circuit board module is housed within the housing assembly, and coupling components are integrated within the overall structure. This nesting approach secures multiple components in a compact arrangement while simplifying the coupling process through integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of manufacture

If the step actuator structure is simplified for easy coupling, then coupling ease is improved, but coupling security may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling easeVSAvoidcoupling security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple coupling functions into integrated coupling components that simultaneously provide mechanical attachment, electrical connection, and structural support. This merging ensures secure coupling while maintaining ease of implementation through a unified coupling mechanism rather than multiple separate fastening operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling components are designed with multi-functionality, serving both mechanical fastening and electrical connection purposes. This universal design achieves secure coupling through a single integrated component that performs multiple functions, simplifying the overall coupling process while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 secure and efficient linear motion conversion, allowing the step actuator to be easily integrated with various mechanical and electrical devices, enhancing its operational stability and versatility.

Implementation Method 1

A step actuator (100) includes a first housing (110) having a cylindrical shape and a second housing (120). A stator and a rotor are provided between the first housing (110) and the second housing (120). As the rotor rotates according to power applied from the circuit board module (300)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic interaction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a screw member (not shown) coupled to the rotor linearly reciprocates

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentEP2308152B1Step actuator apparatus
Publication Date: 2017.01.04 LG INNOTEK CO LTD
  • EP2308152B1 patent drawing
  • EP2308152B1 patent drawing
  • EP2308152B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a step actuator apparatus. The step actuator includes a step actuator including a housing, a stator installed in the housing, a rotor rotating by a reaction with the stator and a screw member coupled to the rotor and moving linearly according to rotation of the rotor; and a circuit board module including a circuit board electrically connected to the step actuator and a case for supporting the circuit board. The housing has a first opening. The case includes a plurality of hooks inserted into the first opening.