Infant Swing Velocity Feedback Control for Smooth Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infant swing motor systems fail to provide a consistent motion profile and smooth velocity over the motion path due to varying torque requirements based on the weight and location of the child, leading to inconsistent velocity profiles and peak/valley type velocity changes.
Innovation Solution
A feedback system using a light interrupter detector with a slotted disk and optical sensor, coupled with a microprocessor, adjusts the motor voltage to maintain a consistent velocity by comparing measured velocity to a goal velocity, reversing torque when necessary to maintain a steady velocity profile.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If constant torque is provided to the motor, then different motion profiles are produced at each setting, but varying motion profiles are produced for the same speed under different loading conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system that continuously monitors the swing velocity and compares it to a desired velocity profile. The controller adjusts the motor torque in real-time based on the difference between actual and desired velocity, ensuring consistent motion profiles under varying loading conditions. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining velocity consistency (reliability) while adapting to different loads (adaptability).
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static constant torque control to dynamic torque control. The motor torque is continuously adjusted based on real-time velocity measurements and the desired velocity profile, allowing the system to adapt to changing loading conditions while maintaining consistent motion characteristics.
2Adaptability or versatility
If feedback system varies motor torque once per cycle, then motion profile consistency is improved under various loading conditions, but inconsistent velocity profile is produced over the motion path
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback control operates continuously throughout the swing cycle rather than once per cycle. The controller continuously monitors velocity and adjusts motor torque in real-time, providing continuous useful action that maintains smooth velocity profiles throughout the entire motion path while adapting to loading conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
Continuous feedback control adjusts motor torque at multiple points throughout each swing cycle, not just once. This continuous adjustment ensures smooth velocity profiles by correcting velocity deviations as they occur, rather than allowing peak and valley type changes to develop.
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 system achieves a consistent motion profile and smoother velocity over the entire motion path, providing a gentler and more calming motion for the child, independent of the angle of travel or direction, and adaptable to various loading conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A feedback system using a light interrupter detector with a slotted disk and optical sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the invention include a motor system for driving a swing and controlling the speed and/or amplitude of the swing. In one embodiment, the motor system includes a DC motor, a swing velocity sensor system, and a swing velocity control circuit. The DC motor drives the swing through at least one fill swing cycle, and then the motor is allowed to free-wheel for at least a half swing cycle. During the free-wheeling half cycle, the swing velocity sensor system measures the velocity of the swing and compares the measured velocity to a goal velocity. The control circuit increases or decreases the velocity depending on this comparison. In other embodiments, the system includes a swing amplitude sensor system that measures the amplitude of the swing and a swing amplitude control circuit that compares the measured amplitude to a goal amplitude.