Deployable compliant mechanism
US10767675B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 2, 2017 |
| Grant date | Sep 8, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 15, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16B2200/91
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A mechanism is hereby disclosed that, when activated in the linear direction of its axis, will expand and contract radially. The novel nature of the device is that of compliant methods and materials used in its design. Compliant members, referred to as dyads, translate the motion and imply resistance in a single structure. Thus eliminating the need for separate members, hinges, pins, springs and the associated assembly. When these compliant dyads are combined in the novel configurations hereby disclosed, a device is created that expands (or contracts) in multiple directions from its primary axis of actuation. Furthermore, one or more actuation dyad sets could be arranged at various angles relative to the global vertical axis. The radial expansion/contraction can be 2D or 3D by adding more primary activation dyad sets. Such a device can be applied to many applications and industries. One such application is for gripping the inside of a tube or object for moving manually or in automation. The compliant nature of this device can be optimized to auto-adapt to the objects size and shape allowing for greater part variation and reduce manufacturing line change-over times. Other applicatio…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.