Vented Gas Actuator Force Profile Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pressurized gas-powered actuators lack the ability to control the actuation force profile effectively throughout the piston stroke, as they rely on fixed designs that do not allow for dynamic adjustment of force based on piston position.
Innovation Solution
A vented pressurized gas-powered actuator with a housing featuring strategically positioned and dimensioned vent grooves that control the flow of pressurized gas, allowing for adjustable force profiles by varying the cross-sectional area and length of the grooves along the piston stroke.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed design is used for pressurized gas-powered actuator, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but ability to control actuation force profile is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The housing incorporates vent grooves with specific geometric characteristics (cross-sectional area, length, position) at localized regions to control gas flow and achieve desired force profiles. Different groove configurations (varying cross-sectional areas, different lengths, different positions) provide localized control over the actuation force during different portions of the piston stroke, allowing customization of force profiles without redesigning the entire actuator system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If vent grooves are added to control gas flow, then force profile control is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention controls actuation force profiles by varying geometric parameters of the vent grooves, specifically the cross-sectional area and length of the grooves. By changing these dimensional parameters during the molding or manufacturing process, different force profiles can be achieved from the same basic housing design, allowing for flexibility in force control while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing procedures.
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 control of the actuator force profile by managing gas flow through the vent grooves, allowing for tailored force exertion throughout the piston stroke, enhancing the actuator's functionality and adaptability in applications like automotive hood lifting.
Implementation Method 1
a first chamber defined by the piston and having a first pressure and a second chamber defined by the piston and having a second pressure lower than the first pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A vented pressurized gas-powered actuator includes a housing having a central longitudinal axis and an inner surface. At least one vent groove extends from the inner surface in a direction away from the axis. The at least one groove has a first end spaced apart from a first plane extending perpendicular to the axis, and a second end spaced apart from a second plane extending perpendicular to the axis. The groove second end is closer to the second plane than to the first plane.