Actuating Mechanism and Method for Operating Same

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention is an improved actuating mechanism based on a thrust chain drive, featuring multiple flexible cord belts with attached chain links that interlock to create a rigid, extendable, and retractable column (called the 'lantern pinion'). The mechanism incorporates three or more cord belts for enhanced stability and compactness, allows for twisted guidance of the belts outside the locked column to save space, and includes an adjustable stabilization feature to increase the rigidity of the extended column when needed.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Height adjustment of patient tables in MRI and CT medical imaging systems (with non-metallic materials for compatibility)
• Lift tables and platforms for stage and grandstand construction
• Automated logistics systems and conveyor platforms in warehouses
• Precise positioning of instruments or devices in confined spaces
• Robotic arms or extensions that require compact stowage and high extension rigidity
• Adjustable furniture or assistive devices where minimal space and high load capacity are required

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Allows for higher rigidity and load-bearing with low weight and compact design due to the use of multiple interlocking belts
• Provides adjustable rigidity by activating or deactivating the stabilization mechanism, enabling both easy movement and strong fixation as needed
• Supports space-saving storage and deployment of the belts via twisted and rolled arrangements
• Can be made from non-metallic materials for compatibility with medical imaging environments (MRI/CT)
• Reduced need for complex external guides or supports compared to traditional solutions, increasing design flexibility and robustness
• Enables precise movement and stabilization in applications with strict space constraints

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to an actuating mechanism (1) which has a thrust chain drive which has at least one flexible cord belt (3) with cord members (4) which are fastened thereto, wherein the cord belt (3) can be retracted and extended as a lantern pinion (7) via a drive (5) in an actuating direction (S) of the actuating mechanism (1), characterized by one, several or all of the following features a), b) and c): a) the thrust chain drive has at least three cord belts (3) with respective cord members (4) which are fastened thereto and are combined with one another in the lantern pinion (7), by the cord members (4) engaging into one another in a positively locking manner, b) that part (31) of the at least one cord belt (3) which is not situated in the lantern pinion (7) is guided in a manner which is twisted by at least 30 degrees, c) the thrust chain drive has an arbitrarily actuable stabilization mechanism (6, 9), by way of which adjacent cord members (4) which are situated in the lantern pinion (7) can be pressed against one another, in order to increase the rigidity of the lantern pinion (7).