Switchable Spring-Coupled Actuator for Variable Mounting Direction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuators require costly modifications and extensive reconfiguration to accommodate different installation positions or directions, leading to increased production and maintenance costs, as well as time-consuming mechanical adjustments.
Innovation Solution
An actuator design featuring a coupling device that can be switched between two coupling states, allowing the reset spring's closing force to be directed in different ways, enabling versatile installation without the need for partial dismantling or modification, utilizing a mechanism with a coupling sleeve and gear wheels with opposing directions of rotation to alter the closing direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the actuator is designed for a specific installation position with a predetermined closing direction, then the reliability and durability are improved, but the adaptability to different installation positions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device can be switched between different coupling states (first and second states) to dynamically change the closing direction of the reset spring. This allows the actuator to adapt to different installation positions while maintaining reliable operation in each position, resolving the contradiction between reliability for a specific position and adaptability to multiple positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is designed with a universal coupling device that can accommodate multiple installation positions and closing directions through its switchable coupling states. This multi-functional design allows a single actuator model to serve multiple installation scenarios, improving adaptability without compromising reliability through the maintained mechanical connection quality in each state.
2Reliability
If different actuators are provided for various installation positions, then the reliability for each position is improved, but the device complexity and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing different actuators for various installation positions, the invention uses a single actuator design with a coupling device that can be configured in different coupling states. This universal design reduces device complexity and production costs while maintaining reliability through the switchable coupling mechanism that adapts to different installation requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device incorporates a dynamic switching mechanism that allows the actuator to change its closing direction based on the installation position. This dynamic capability eliminates the need for multiple static actuator designs, reducing overall system complexity while preserving reliability in each operational state.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical modifications are made to the actuator for variable installation, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of manufacture and time required deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is designed with a switchable mechanism that can be configured in different coupling states during assembly or operation. This dynamic configurability allows the actuator to adapt to different installation positions without requiring complex mechanical modifications or partial dismantling, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is pre-configured with the capability to switch between different coupling states, allowing the actuator to be manufactured in a standardized manner and then adapted to different installation positions through simple state changes rather than complex modifications. This preliminary design approach simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments include an actuator comprising: a drive element; a transmission section; an actuating element mechanically actively connected to the drive element through the transmission section; a reset spring exerting a closing force on the actuating element; and a coupling device providing a mechanically active connection between the reset spring and the transmission section. The coupling device is configured to be brought into a first coupling state and a second coupling state. With the coupling device in the first coupling state, the reset spring exerts the closing force on the actuating element in a first closing direction. With the coupling device in the second coupling state, the reset spring exerts the closing force on the actuating element in a second closing direction. The first closing direction and the second closing direction are different.