Swing-Gate Electromechanical Actuator With Modular Replacement Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromechanical actuators for swing gates face challenges in replacing different models without requiring labor-intensive modifications to the fixing plates and supporting structures, as the vertical distance between the actuator casing and nut plate can vary, necessitating complex repositioning and welding.
Innovation Solution
An electromechanical actuator design featuring an intermediate element, such as L-shaped components, that allows for easy installation by enabling oscillations on a horizontal plane, allowing the actuator to be replaced without altering the fixing plates, through simple drilling of additional holes if necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the actuator is replaced with a different model, then the actuator can be updated or improved, but the fixing plates and supporting structures require labor-intensive modifications including welding and repainting
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the mounting system into separate modular components: the actuator, the first bracket (fixed to support structure), the second bracket (fixed to gate), and adjustment elements. This segmentation allows the actuator to be replaced without modifying the fixed brackets or support structure, eliminating welding and repainting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces adjustable and oscillating connection mechanisms between the brackets and actuator, allowing dynamic adaptation to different actuator models and positions. This enables the mounting system to accommodate various actuator types without requiring structural modifications, simplifying replacement operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the vertical distance between the horizontal plate and actuator nut plate varies for different actuators, then different actuator models can be used, but the axis of the worm screw cannot remain horizontal
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates oscillating connections and adjustment mechanisms that allow the mounting brackets to adapt dynamically to different vertical distances between actuator components. This enables the system to maintain proper horizontal alignment of the worm screw axis regardless of variations in actuator model dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces intermediate adjustment elements and oscillating connection brackets that act as mediators between the fixed support structure and the actuator. These intermediaries compensate for dimensional variations in different actuator models, ensuring the worm screw axis remains properly aligned without requiring modifications to the support structure.
3Manufacturing precision
If the mounting bracket is welded to the swing gate to ensure proper alignment, then the worm screw axis remains horizontal, but the actuator cannot be easily replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the mounting system into detachable bracket components that can be independently adjusted and repositioned. This allows the brackets to be removed and reinstalled when replacing actuators, eliminating the need for welding operations while maintaining proper alignment through adjustable connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention designs the mounting brackets as reusable components that can be removed from the old actuator and recovered for use with the new actuator. The brackets maintain their alignment properties through the oscillating connection design, allowing them to be reused without welding or permanent attachment, facilitating easy actuator replacement.
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
Enables easy replacement of actuators without modifying the fixing plates or supporting structures, reducing installation complexity and cost by allowing precise horizontal alignment of the worm screw with minimal on-site adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor housed within an enclosure or casing of the actuator, configured to drive a worm screw
Implementation Method 2
the motor is configured to drive a worm screw in rotation, to which a nut is coupled. As the motor rotates in one direction or the other, the nut moves along this extension.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Electromechanical actuator for an articulated barrier, to be interposed between said swing gate (16) and a fixed structure (20), to which the swing gate is articulated at a first vertical axis (18), said actuator being of the type comprising: - a casing (2) articulated at a horizontal axis (28) to a bracket (22), which in turn is articulated at a second vertical axis (24) to a first plate (26) fixed to said fixed structure (14), said casing (2) housing an electric drive motor for a worm screw (4) with a horizontal axis, - a nut (6) coupled to said worm screw (4) and articulated at a third vertical axis (12) to a second substantially horizontal plate (14) fixed to said swing gate (16), characterized in that it includes an intermediate element (30), which is removable and is articulated to said bracket (22) through a coupling with mutually engaging pins and holes, wherein said pins have an axis coinciding with said horizontal articulation axis (28), and said holes are defined by the installer to ensure the substantial horizontality of the axis of said worm screw (4).