Pivoting Trim Tab Bracket for Equal Actuator Loading
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional trim tab actuator assemblies with two actuators face issues due to manufacturing tolerances, leading to unequal loading and potential damage or failure of the actuators.
Innovation Solution
The use of a bracket with a main body that pivots about multiple axes to facilitate equal loading of the first and second rods of the actuator assembly, coupled with a linking member to connect the actuator assembly to a pivotable component like a trim tab.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional trim tab actuator assemblies with two actuators are used, then the trim tab can be actuated, but manufacturing tolerances lead to unequal loading and potential damage or failure of the actuators
Solution Approach 1:
A bracket assembly is introduced as an intermediary component between the two actuators and the trim tab. This bracket includes a first bracket portion coupled to the first actuator, a second bracket portion coupled to the second actuator, and a linking portion connecting the two bracket portions. The linking portion allows relative movement between the bracket portions, serving as a mediator that equalizes the load distribution despite manufacturing tolerances in the actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly is designed with dynamic characteristics, where the linking portion permits relative movement between the first and second bracket portions. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to manufacturing variations and maintain equal loading during operation, rather than being constrained by fixed rigid connections that would propagate unequal loads.
2Reliability
If manufacturing tolerances are reduced to achieve equal loading, then actuator reliability improves, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly is segmented into distinct functional portions: a first bracket portion for coupling to the first actuator, a second bracket portion for coupling to the second actuator, and a linking portion connecting them. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized independently and simplifies manufacturing compared to a monolithic rigid structure, while achieving the goal of equal load distribution.
3Strength
If rigid fixed connections are used between actuators and trim tab, then structural strength is maintained, but unequal loading due to tolerances causes actuator failure
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the operational parameters of the bracket assembly by allowing controlled movement and flexibility in the linking portion. This parameter change enables the bracket to transition from a rigid fixed connection system to a semi-flexible system that can accommodate manufacturing tolerances while maintaining sufficient structural strength through proper material selection and dimensional design.
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket for coupling an actuator assembly having a first rod and a second rod to a pivotable component of a marine vessel comprises a main body with a first end configured to be pivotally coupled to the first rod and an opposite second end configured to be pivotally coupled to the second rod. The main body pivots about at least one axis to thereby facilitate equal loading of the first rod and the second rod, and a linking member is pivotally coupled to the main body and is configured to be coupled to the pivotable component.