Tensile Motion Generator with Elastic Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current motion generators for simulation systems, particularly those used in high-end applications like military and commercial flight training, are large, heavy, complex, and expensive, with overhead suspension systems limiting their compactness and requiring extensive programming and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A motion generator system utilizing a network of tensile members, including elastic elements like bungee cords and wire ropes, to support a moveable end effector within a defined volume, allowing for six degrees of freedom and high backdrivability, with actuators controlling tension to simulate movements and haptic feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional Stewart platform or hexapod systems are used, then six degrees of freedom motion capability is achieved, but the system becomes large, heavy, and complex requiring overhead suspension devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the overhead suspension device from the system by using a baseplate with embedded actuators that directly control the platform's six degrees of freedom motion, eliminating the need for external overhead structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates the actuator mechanisms directly into the baseplate structure, combining the support and actuation functions into a single unified system rather than separating overhead suspension and platform components
2Measurement precision
If traditional motion generators are used for high-end simulation, then motion accuracy is achieved, but the system becomes expensive and requires extensive programming and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses passive elastic elements (springs, rubber bands, rubber tires) that automatically maintain tension and provide restoring forces without requiring active control, reducing programming complexity and maintenance needs while preserving motion accuracy
3Adaptability or versatility
If overhead suspension cables are used, then the system can support six degrees of freedom motion, but the overall dimensions increase and compact installation is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a vertical overhead suspension arrangement to a horizontal baseplate-mounted actuator arrangement, changing the spatial dimension of the system architecture to achieve compact footprint while maintaining six degrees of freedom capability
4Ease of operation
If cable/actuator-controlled systems are used, then motion control is achieved, but the system becomes non-backdrivable and limited in application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs elastic elements with inherent flexibility and compliance that allow the system to respond bidirectionally to forces, enabling backdrivability and broader application ranges compared to rigid cable-controlled systems
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 compactness, reduced weight, and lower costs while enabling high-frequency motion simulations, improved backdrivability, and compatibility with virtual reality applications, providing a more realistic and immersive experience without the need for overhead suspension devices.
Implementation Method 1
Each one of the at least six second tensile members comprises an elastic element... The elastic element... acts to apply a tension to the tensile member
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
This invention relates inter alia to a motion generator which comprises: an end effector; a stationary support having a base; at least one first tensile member, and at least six second tensile members, wherein each of the at least one first tensile member and the at least six second tensile members comprises a elastic element and each of which tensile members being attached at one end thereof to the end effector and being attached at the other end thereof to the stationary support; in which each tensile member applies a tensile force between the end effector and the stationary support, and in which each one of the at least six tensile members is independently adjustably tensioned by an actuator fixed to the stationary support which acts on the tensile member at a point along its length between the end effector and the elastic element, wherein the actuator acts to change the tension in the part of the tensile member between the end effector and the actuator in order to affect the forces and moments applied to the end effector by the system, wherein the actuator reacts the tensile force it applies to the tensile member against the stationary support, and wherein the tensile force applied by each tensile member to the end effector reacts against the tensile forces applied by the other tensile members via the end effector such that the end effector is maintained in suspension and out of contact with the stationary support by the tensile forces in the tensile members and any other forces applied to the end effector.