Switchable Stop Actuator for Intermediate Linear Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear positioning systems face challenges in achieving precise and repeatable positioning of loads at intermediate points along a linear axis without the use of dedicated position sensors, which adds complexity and cost, and can introduce latency affecting precision and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a switchable stop actuator made of configurable materials like electroactive polymers (EAP) or shape-memory alloys (SMA) that can selectively engage or disengage to position a load at multiple positions along a linear axis, including intermediate points, without the need for dedicated position sensors, allowing for precise and repeatable positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If position sensors are added to achieve precise intermediate positioning, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the position sensor component from the system. Instead of using sensors to detect and control intermediate positions, the invention uses a stop actuator that mechanically defines the intermediate position, removing the need for sensing and feedback hardware while maintaining positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The stop actuator serves itself by mechanically establishing the intermediate position through its own structure and actuation. The configurable material within the stop actuator automatically engages to define the intermediate position without requiring external sensors or complex control systems to detect and maintain that position.
2Measurement precision
If position sensors are added to achieve precise intermediate positioning, then positioning precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the position sensor component from the system. Instead of using sensors to detect and control intermediate positions, the invention uses a stop actuator that mechanically defines the intermediate position, removing the need for sensing and feedback hardware while maintaining positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The stop actuator with configurable material provides a cost-effective alternative to expensive position sensors. The configurable material (such as shape memory alloy or electroactive polymer) is a relatively inexpensive component that can be integrated into the actuator structure, significantly reducing system cost while achieving the required positioning precision.
3Measurement precision
If position sensors are used for intermediate positioning, then positioning precision is improved, but latency increases affecting reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the position sensor component from the system. Instead of using sensors to detect and control intermediate positions, the invention uses a stop actuator that mechanically defines the intermediate position, removing the need for sensing and feedback hardware while maintaining positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electronic sensing and feedback system with a direct mechanical system. The stop actuator mechanically engages to define the intermediate position, eliminating the latency inherent in sensor detection, signal processing, and actuator response cycles, thereby improving positioning reliability and speed.
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 precise and repeatable positioning of loads at intermediate points along a linear axis, improving the accuracy and reliability of linear positioning systems while reducing complexity and cost by eliminating the need for position sensors, thus enhancing the performance of applications such as optical scanners.
Implementation Method 1
A stop actuator is made of a configurable material switchable selectively between an engaged configuration, in which the load is positioned in the at least third position, and a disengaged configuration, in which the load is freely movable between the first and the second positions. The configurable material may comprise an electroactive polymer (EAP).
Implementation Method 2
The configurable material may comprise a shape-memory alloy (SMA).
Data Source
AI summary
A system is described for positioning a load in of multiple positions disposed over a linear axis. A linear actuator moves the load into each of the positions. A first position is at an end of the movement, with a second position opposite. A third position is intermediate between the first and the second positions. A stop actuator is made of a configurable material switchable selectively between an engaged configuration, in which the load is positioned in the at least third position, and a disengaged configuration, in which the load is freely movable between the first and the second positions.