Tri-Sphere Kinematic Positioning System for Inverted Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional six-degree-of-freedom positioning systems, such as the tri-sphere, are limited by their inability to operate in inverted or suspended orientations, incompatibility with high-vacuum and low-temperature environments, and excessive cost due to the use of precision motors for single or low-use applications.
Innovation Solution
The development of a tri-sphere positioning system incorporating constrained interfaces and joints that allow operation in any orientation, combined with detachable actuation motors for reduced expense and compatibility with extreme environments, using piezoelectric actuators and portable motor units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional tri-sphere positioning system is used, then six-degree-of-freedom positioning capability is achieved, but the system cannot operate in inverted or suspended orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by redesigning the tri-sphere system to operate reliably in inverted orientations. The jack mechanisms are configured with constrained interfaces that maintain proper mechanical relationships regardless of orientation, allowing the system to function with the object suspended from above rather than supported from below. This inversion principle directly resolves the contradiction by enabling operational versatility in inverted modes while maintaining system reliability.
2Measurement precision
If precision motorized actuators are used in conventional tri-sphere, then positioning precision is improved, but cost increases significantly for single-use applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the actuation system adjustable and reconfigurable. Motors can be attached when positioning adjustments are needed and detached when not required. This dynamic configuration allows the system to achieve high positioning precision when needed while reducing operational costs for single-use or low-frequency applications by eliminating the need for permanently installed precision motors in all scenarios.
3Ease of operation
If ball screw and motor actuators are used in conventional tri-sphere, then positioning control is achieved, but compatibility with high-vacuum and low-temperature environments is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by offering alternative actuation mechanisms that operate in extreme environments. Instead of standard ball screws and motors that fail in high-vacuum or low-temperature conditions, the system can use piezoelectric actuators or other specialized mechanisms that maintain positioning control capability while being compatible with extreme environmental parameters such as high vacuum and cryogenic temperatures.
4Measurement precision
If three jacks with full actuation are used, then positioning precision is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing jack mechanisms that can serve multiple functions. Each jack is equipped with constrained interfaces that allow it to provide both positional support and controlled movement in specific degrees of freedom. This multi-functional design enables the system to achieve precise six-degree-of-freedom positioning while reducing overall complexity compared to systems requiring completely independent actuation for each degree of freedom.
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 flexible, scalable, and precise positioning in six degrees of freedom while being compatible with extreme environments and reducing costs by allowing motor detachment and reuse, facilitating previously impossible applications.
Implementation Method 1
using piezoelectric actuators
Data Source
AI summary
A scalable and adaptable, six-degree-of-freedom, kinematic positioning system is described. The system can position objects supported on top of, or suspended from, jacks comprising constrained joints. The system is compatible with extreme low temperature or high vacuum environments. When constant adjustment is not required a removable motor unit is available.