Locking strut
US7011191B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 17, 2003 |
| Grant date | Mar 14, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 17, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE05Y2900/546
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A locking strut including a housing with a piston rod extending therethrough. A baffle mounts on the piston rod to divide the housing into two chambers. An orifice through the baffle allows fluid to pass between the chambers to damp reciprocating movement. An electromagnetic driver within the housing is selectively energized to move a ferromagnetic plate between an open position, wherein fluid flows freely between the chambers, and a closed position, wherein the ferromagnetic plate blocks the orifice to prevent fluid flow between the chambers and lock the locking strut in position. A plurality of orifices may be spaced about the baffle, with the number and size of the orifices determining the damping capability of the locking strut. A plurality of drivers may be disposed within the housing to overcome fluid forces during movement of the locking strut between an extended and a retracted position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.