Torsion-Spring Locking Ring for Fast Motor State Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compensating devices used in automated manufacturing systems face significant stress on electric motors when rapidly switching between operating states, leading to reduced motor lifespan and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a torsion spring connected to the electric motor via a rotary drive, which absorbs the impact stress, allowing for rapid switching while minimizing the load on the motor, and the use of a spring mechanism with pretensioned springs and a locking ring design that reduces stress on the motor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If rapid switching between operating states is implemented to maximize productivity, then productivity is improved, but impact stress on the electric motor increases causing reduced service life
Solution Approach 1:
A torsion spring is integrated into the locking ring mechanism to absorb impact stress before it reaches the electric motor. The spring is pre-loaded and positioned to engage during rapid switching operations, cushioning the shock loads that would otherwise damage the motor during high-speed state transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The torsion spring acts as an intermediary element between the locking ring and the electric motor. It mediates the transmission of torque by absorbing and releasing energy elastically, protecting the motor from direct impact stress while still enabling the motor to drive the locking mechanism for rapid switching.
2Manufacturing precision
If a locking mechanism with multiple balls and locking ring is used to achieve fixed positioning, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring serves multiple functions: it provides the locking action through its interaction with positioning balls, absorbs impact stress through the integrated torsion spring, and transmits torque from the electric motor. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying the overall device while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The torsion spring is merged directly into the locking ring structure, combining the spring mechanism with the locking mechanism. This integration eliminates the need for separate spring housings and mounting structures, reducing device complexity while maintaining the dual functionality of locking and shock absorption.
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
This configuration extends the service life of the electric motor by reducing impact stress during rapid switching operations, ensuring maximum productivity in manufacturing systems.
Implementation Method 1
a torsion spring which is elastic with respect to the center axis. The torsion spring lessens the above-discussed impact in such a manner that said impact exerts only a small stress on the electric motor
Implementation Method 2
The spring mechanism preferably comprises at least one spring which is installed under pretension in the direction of the center axis between the at least three balls and the first assembly such that the at least three balls are in each case pretensioned toward the second assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A compensating element having a first and a second assembly, wherein a locking mechanism is provided which can be switched over between a first and a second operating state. In the first operating state, the first assembly is connected fixedly to the second assembly and, in the second operating state, the first and second assemblies are connected to each other via a spring mechanism in such a manner that they are movable relative to each other. The locking mechanism includes an electric motor that can be used to switch over between the first and the second operating state. A locking ring is or is not braced against at least three balls depending on its rotational position with respect to a center axis. The locking ring is connected in terms of rotary drive to the electric motor via a torsion spring which is elastic with respect to the center axis.