CA2086053A1 - Apparatus with inversion linkage mechanism - Google Patents
Apparatus with inversion linkage mechanismInfo
- Publication number
- CA2086053A1 CA2086053A1 CA 2086053 CA2086053A CA2086053A1 CA 2086053 A1 CA2086053 A1 CA 2086053A1 CA 2086053 CA2086053 CA 2086053 CA 2086053 A CA2086053 A CA 2086053A CA 2086053 A1 CA2086053 A1 CA 2086053A1
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- link
- container
- shafts
- receptive
- horse
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B06—GENERATING OR TRANSMITTING MECHANICAL VIBRATIONS IN GENERAL
- B06B—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR GENERATING OR TRANSMITTING MECHANICAL VIBRATIONS OF INFRASONIC, SONIC, OR ULTRASONIC FREQUENCY, e.g. FOR PERFORMING MECHANICAL WORK IN GENERAL
- B06B1/00—Methods or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic frequency
- B06B1/10—Methods or apparatus for generating mechanical vibrations of infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic frequency making use of mechanical energy
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
The apparatus for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of material in a container has a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work of which at least one link serves as receptacle for the container; and means for driving the link-work, the driving means being capable of imparting thrusting power, rather than rotating power.
The apparatus for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of material in a container has a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work of which at least one link serves as receptacle for the container; and means for driving the link-work, the driving means being capable of imparting thrusting power, rather than rotating power.
Description
~ 3~) IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO APPARAT~S WITH
INVERSION LINKAGE MECHANISM
The present invention is concerned with improvements in and relating to apparatus which include an inversion linkage mecha-nism.
More particularly, the invention is concerned with a method for imparting torque to the input shaft or shafts of an inversion linkage mechanism.
Still more particularly, my present invention relates to a rhythmically-modulated drive arrangement for mixers and/or blen-ders, of the type generally known as Schatz mixer, as described, for example, in ~nited States Patent No. 2,302,804 of November 24, 1942, issued to Paul Schatz, particularly describing an in-version type kinematic link to impart wobbling or wavering motions to a container, for mixing and/or blending the contents of the container; or for use in propulsion mechanisms for ships.
The inversion triple linkage, at times also called the Schatz linkage, is a uniform three-part kinematic chain comprised of rigid links connected by pivots, the axes of two successive links being askew to one another, and which when turned inside out imparts a wobble motion to the center element.
The mechanical principle has been used to advantage in the construction of mixing machines and propulsion mechanisms for ships. The principle requires that the ends of the outer links of the three-part chain are each hinged to a rotating shaft, and that the chain or linkage is then set in motion by imparting a rotary driving ~orce to either one, or both, of these shafts, giving rise in the center link to a unique pattern of motion , : . ~
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INVERSION LINKAGE MECHANISM
The present invention is concerned with improvements in and relating to apparatus which include an inversion linkage mecha-nism.
More particularly, the invention is concerned with a method for imparting torque to the input shaft or shafts of an inversion linkage mechanism.
Still more particularly, my present invention relates to a rhythmically-modulated drive arrangement for mixers and/or blen-ders, of the type generally known as Schatz mixer, as described, for example, in ~nited States Patent No. 2,302,804 of November 24, 1942, issued to Paul Schatz, particularly describing an in-version type kinematic link to impart wobbling or wavering motions to a container, for mixing and/or blending the contents of the container; or for use in propulsion mechanisms for ships.
The inversion triple linkage, at times also called the Schatz linkage, is a uniform three-part kinematic chain comprised of rigid links connected by pivots, the axes of two successive links being askew to one another, and which when turned inside out imparts a wobble motion to the center element.
The mechanical principle has been used to advantage in the construction of mixing machines and propulsion mechanisms for ships. The principle requires that the ends of the outer links of the three-part chain are each hinged to a rotating shaft, and that the chain or linkage is then set in motion by imparting a rotary driving ~orce to either one, or both, of these shafts, giving rise in the center link to a unique pattern of motion , : . ~
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2 ~ 3 called "inversion". The phrase "inversion linkage" will therefore be used to denote the Schatz -triple linkage in the following.
The priol art hitherto has been concerned with s~stems in which torque is imparted to the shaft or shafts in a manner that does not fully suit the inversion linkage mechanism.
Thus, complex drive systems have been developed to drive such machines/mixers. One known system is using a cumbersome pendulum-type chain drive. Another system uses a universal joint, or joints, set at an angle to act for transfer of motive power between the motor and the linkage mechanism. Also known are dual rotary hydraulic drives for powering two shafts.
United States Patent No. 860,155 of July 16, 1907, to Henry M. Russell, Jr., relates to a mechanical movement including the combination of three aligned revoluble members and a conic link-work differentially connecting said revoluble members.
Russell, Jr. also pertains to a mechanical movement with the combination of three aligned revoluble members, two separate symmetrical, four bar, conic linkages intermediate of two of the said revoluble members, and two gimbal points connecting the two idle pins of the said linkages with the third of the said revoluble members, the linkages being so placed that when the four links of one of the said linkages lie in a plane the four links of the other shall not lie in a plane.
U.S. Patent No. 1,071,101 of Cleve T. Shaffer issued ~ugust 16, 1926, discloses an apparatus, in combination with an aero~
plane, with a supporting track therefor, means for propelling the aeroplane relative to said supporting track, flexible connection .. . . ~ ..
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between said supporting track and said aeroplane, and means for controlling the flexibility of said flexible connection for regulating the universal movement of the aeroplane relative to the supporting track.
Still, in the apparatus according to Shaffer, of the class described, the combination with an aeroplane provided with the usual balancing planes, elevating planes and steering rudder, of means under the control of the passenger within the aeroplane for operating said balancing planes, elevating planes and steering rudder of a supporting track for said aeroplane, means for pro-pelling the aeroplane relative to its supporting track, a flexible connection between the aeroplane and the supporting track, and means under control of a passenger within the aero-plane for controlling said flexible connection for permitting universal movement of the aeroplane during its travel relative to said track.
U. S. Patent No. 2,302,804 issued November 24, 1942, to Paul Schatz is concerned with a mechanism for producing wavering and rotating movements, comprising: a frame adapted to hold a receptacle, a fork member rotatably secured near one end of the frame, a second fork member rotatably secured near the other end of the frame, the axes of rotation of the fork ends on the frame being at right angles to each other, and a shaft for each fork member to rotate the fork members, said shafts being parallel to 25 each other and at least one of them being a driving shaft for the ;~
mechanism. Each shaft can be provided with a fork connection with its respective fork member. ~-Schatz is further concerned with a device for subjecting ;
The priol art hitherto has been concerned with s~stems in which torque is imparted to the shaft or shafts in a manner that does not fully suit the inversion linkage mechanism.
Thus, complex drive systems have been developed to drive such machines/mixers. One known system is using a cumbersome pendulum-type chain drive. Another system uses a universal joint, or joints, set at an angle to act for transfer of motive power between the motor and the linkage mechanism. Also known are dual rotary hydraulic drives for powering two shafts.
United States Patent No. 860,155 of July 16, 1907, to Henry M. Russell, Jr., relates to a mechanical movement including the combination of three aligned revoluble members and a conic link-work differentially connecting said revoluble members.
Russell, Jr. also pertains to a mechanical movement with the combination of three aligned revoluble members, two separate symmetrical, four bar, conic linkages intermediate of two of the said revoluble members, and two gimbal points connecting the two idle pins of the said linkages with the third of the said revoluble members, the linkages being so placed that when the four links of one of the said linkages lie in a plane the four links of the other shall not lie in a plane.
U.S. Patent No. 1,071,101 of Cleve T. Shaffer issued ~ugust 16, 1926, discloses an apparatus, in combination with an aero~
plane, with a supporting track therefor, means for propelling the aeroplane relative to said supporting track, flexible connection .. . . ~ ..
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between said supporting track and said aeroplane, and means for controlling the flexibility of said flexible connection for regulating the universal movement of the aeroplane relative to the supporting track.
Still, in the apparatus according to Shaffer, of the class described, the combination with an aeroplane provided with the usual balancing planes, elevating planes and steering rudder, of means under the control of the passenger within the aeroplane for operating said balancing planes, elevating planes and steering rudder of a supporting track for said aeroplane, means for pro-pelling the aeroplane relative to its supporting track, a flexible connection between the aeroplane and the supporting track, and means under control of a passenger within the aero-plane for controlling said flexible connection for permitting universal movement of the aeroplane during its travel relative to said track.
U. S. Patent No. 2,302,804 issued November 24, 1942, to Paul Schatz is concerned with a mechanism for producing wavering and rotating movements, comprising: a frame adapted to hold a receptacle, a fork member rotatably secured near one end of the frame, a second fork member rotatably secured near the other end of the frame, the axes of rotation of the fork ends on the frame being at right angles to each other, and a shaft for each fork member to rotate the fork members, said shafts being parallel to 25 each other and at least one of them being a driving shaft for the ;~
mechanism. Each shaft can be provided with a fork connection with its respective fork member. ~-Schatz is further concerned with a device for subjecting ;
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wavering and rotating movements to a receptacle, comprisiny: a frame to removably receive the receptacle, a base member, a pair of shafts spaced to rotate vertically from the base member, a pair of bearings connecting the shafts from the frame, means for rotating one of said shafts, each bearing including two forked members interconnected at right angles to each other of which one forked member is connected to the shaft and the other to the frame.
Schatz also relates to a mechanism for producing wavering and rotating movements, comprising a frame adapted to hold a receptacle, a pair of fork members, one near each end of the frame, the axis of rotation of the fork rnembers on the frame being at righ' angles to each other, and a second pair of forks each pivotally connected to the mid section of its respective first-mentioned fork member on an axis which is at right angles to said respective first mentioned fork member, each second fork having an extension in the form of a shaft of which both shafts are parallel to each other.
At least one of the shafts is a dri.ving shaft to rotate all the forks and the frame with a wavering motion added to the rotatory motion for the frame.
Schatz also claims a mechanism for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of a receptacle, comprising a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link~
work, of which at least one link serves as receptacle having a supporting device, driving means for the link-work, the recep-tive link being hinged at both ends to two horse-shoe shaped links, which overlap the receptive link, the axes of the two a~ --. ~ : . . ., . , , .. . . .. ~ :, : ~ "
~ 3 hinges being at right angles to each other in different planes.
Schatz also claims the mechanism for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of a receptacle, comprising a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as receptacle having asupporting device, driving means for the link-work, the receptive link being hinged at both ends to two horse-shoe shaped links, which overlap the receptive link, the axes of the two hinges being at right angles to each other in different planes, the two horse-shoe shaped links being hinged in the middle to two fork~
shaped members, the axes of the fork-shaped members being at right angles to the axes of the adjoining horse-shoe shaped hinges in different planes.
As well, the mechanism for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of a receptacle, comprising a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as receptacle having a supporting device, driving means for the link-work, the recep-tive link being hinged at both ends to two horse-shoe shaped links, which overlap the receptive link, the axes of the two hinges being at right angles to each other in different planes, the two horse-shoe shaped links being hinged in the middle to two fork-shaped members, the a~es of the fork-shaped members being at right angles to the axes of the adjoining horse-shoe shaped ~ -hinges in different planes, and the two fork-shaped members being inflexibly prolonged into two shafts, which are rotatably mounted in the supporting device so that they are parallel.
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As well, the Schatz patent of 1942 refers to the mechanism :: ' ' ' , ` : ' :' , :' , : ' : ': , ' ' ' ', ' , ! ' ~ :
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for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of a receptacle, comprising [a] a closed and con-strained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link ~receptive link] serves as receptacle and having a supporting device, [b] driving means for the link-work, the receptive link being hinged at both ends to [c] two horse-shoe shaped links, which overlap the receptive link, the axes of the two hinges being at right angles to each other in different planes, the two horse-shoe shaped links being hinged in the middle to [d] two fork-shaped members, the axes of the fork-shaped members being at right angles to the axes of the ad-joining horse-shoe shaped hinges in different planes, the two fork-shaped members being inflexibly prolonged into two shafts, which are rotatably mounted in the supporting device so that they are parallel, and one of the two rotatably mounted shafts being coupled to [e] a motor by [f] a driving means.
U. S. Patent No. 3,475,976 of November 4, 1969, to James M.
Steinke and assigned to The National Cash Register Company, re-lates to a transmission device having aligned input and output shafts with yokes on their adjacent ends. The yoke on the input shaft rotatably supports a block having a pin projecting there-from with the outer end thereof secured to the inner race of a bearing utilized as a support structure. An arcuate link is pivotally joined to said outer end and to one leg of the yoke on said output member. The outer race of said bearing may be ad-justably fixed relative to the frame means of the device to provide for a change in the velocity fluctuation of the output shaft.
., ~ . . :. . ., , 2 ~ 3 u.S. Patent No. 3,824,866 of July 23, 1974r issued to Paul Schatz, refers to an apparatus for generating a wobble motion with a wobbIe [oloid] body. An endless band is secured to the wobble body for transmitting motion thereto. The endless band is formed of a flat circular ring band which is bent about axes parallel to two perpendicular diameters. In position, the endless band includes a symmetry plane which extends through one of the body suspension means. A drive mechanism secured to a frame imparts motion to the wobble body via the endless bandO
The wobble body is rotatably secured to said frame by suspension means.
There has remained, however, the need to provide an effec-tive and selective drive system for use with apparatus including an inversion linkage mechanism.
Summary of the Invention ~-Included in the objects of my invention are:
To provide an apparatus which is simple in operation and construction.
It is also an object of my invention to provide a drive system that will permit the inversion linkage to be used with a ~ . - :- :
larger number of applications.
It is further an object of the invention to provide a drive ; ~;
system that will permit the inversion linkage to be used with machines having greater capacities.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a drive system which is more economical than prior art apparatus.
In accordance with one aspect of my invention, there is provided the improvement in an apparatus for producing a combi-::
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nation of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of material in a container, comprising: [a] a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as said container; and [b] means for driving said link-work, said driving means exerting substantially only thrusting power.
In accordance with a further aspect of my invention, there is provided an apparatus for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of material in a container, comprising: [a] a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as receptacle for said container; [b] means for securing said container in said receptacle; and [c] rhythmically-modulated driving means for imparting only thrusting rather than rotating power from its source.
In accordance with another aspect of my invention, there is provided a method of imparting rhythmically-modulated movements to an inversion linkage system which is comprised of a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as receptive link for a container, the receptive link being hinged at both ends to two horse-shoe shaped links, which overlap the receptive link, the axes of the two hinges being at right angles to each other in different planes, the two horse-shoe shaped links being hinged in the middle to two fork-shaped members, the axes of the fork-shaped members being at right angles to the axes of the adjoining horse-shoe shaped hinges ln different planes, the two fork-shaped members being inflexibly prolonged into two shafts, which are rotatably mounted in the supporting device so that they are parallel, both of the two , 3 rotatably mounted shafts being coupled to motive power imparting means exerting substantially only thrust, comprising the step of supplying thrusting power such that for every 360 rotation of a respective shaft there are two phases during which a lifting of the receptive link takes place such that the said two horse-shoe shaped links are perpendicular with respect to one another.
Description of the Drawing Other and further objects and advantages of the invention will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:-FIG. 1 is a side elevation of a mixer embodiment showingschematically the drive system with vertically disposed shafts with the receptive link being at its highest point or position of the lifting motion;
FIG. 2 is a view similar to FIG. 1 with the receptive link shown to be at its mid-point position of the lifting motion;
FIG. 3 is a top plan view of a hydraulic drive system embodiment of my invention;
FIG. 4 is a top plan view of a linear induction motor drive system wherein overlapping armature elements are used;
FIG. 5 is the side elevation of the embodiment of FIG. 4;
FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a linear induction motor drive system in which the armature paddle elements are located in the same plane; and FIG. 7 is the side elevation of the embodiment of FIG. 6;
FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a drive system with a linear actuator; and 2 ~
FIGs. 9 and 10, appearing on the sheet with FIGs. 1 and 2, are diagrams showing the various phases for two vertically disposed drive shafts.
Alike elements in the following description are identified by like reference designations.
Turning to FIG. 1, this shows a base 1 from which project vertically disposed shafts 3 and 4, which are suitably journaled in the enclosure 2 of base 1. The drive system contained in base 1 is generally identified by reference designations M1 and M2, and this will be described in greater detail in the following.
The torque imparted to shafts 3 and 4 is respectively transmitted to clevises 6 and 7 and thence to yokes 8 and 9 which, in turn, are linked to the receptacle identified by reference designation R. The receptacle R is the center or receptive link 14, of the inversion linkage mechanism I, which has connections 10, 11, 12, and 13.
Usually, the center link 14 serves as the receptacle R for a container, omitted in the drawings. Such container is then in shape so as to fit into the receptacle R. The container may have the configuration of a wobble body as is shown in U.S. Patent No.
3,824,866 of Paul Schatz, mentioned above.
It will be appreciated that the elements described thus far form a closed and constrained invertible kinematic linkage or link-work, with the receptive center link 14, serving as :25 receptacle R, being respectively hinged at its two ends, 14a and 14b, by way of the connections 10 - 13, to a respective one of two horse-shoe or yoke shaped links 8 and 9, which respectively embrace the receptive center link 14. The respective central 2 ~ ' 3 axes of the two pair of hinges (10, 11) and (12, 13) extend a-t right angles to each other in different planes, and the -two yokes or links 8 and 9 are hin~ed at their respective mid-points to the clevises 6 and 7, with the axes of these clevises, members or elements, being at right angles to the central axes of the ad-joining horse-shoe shaped yokes or links 8 and 9 in different planes, and the clevises or fork-shaped members 5 and 6 being extensions of, or inflexibly prolonged into, the two parallel shafts 3 and 4, which are rotatably mounted in the base or supporting device 1.
FIGs. 1 and 2, taken together with FIGs. 9 and 10, indicate the operation of the inversion linkage mechanism I with torque being applied to vertically disposed drive shaft 3 and 4.
In every 360 rotation of a respective shaft (3 and 4) there are only two phases, indicated by segments of arc, during which "lifting" of the center link 14 takes place.
With respect to the vertically disposed shafts (3 and 4), "lifting" in this specification refers to the fact that the yokes 8 and 9 are positioned perpendicularly with respect to one another and the right-hand end 14a of the center link 14, has been raised from the mid-way point or position in the lifting motion of the inversion linkage mechanism I. The mid-way position is indicated in FIG. 2 and the yokes 8 and 9 are now positioned parallel with respect to one another. The mid-way points are on lines X - X in FIGs. 9 and 10, and the highest point or position of the lifting motion, as is indicated in FIG.
1, are on lines Y - Y in FIGs. 9 & 10.
In the case of horizontally disposed shafts (3 and 4), the ., .
2 0 ~ F~ 3 3 motions are analogous.
During each complete cycle of motion of the center link 14, the end 14a is subjected twice to this lifting, i.e., there are two lifting phases for the end 14a of the link 14, and two at the other end (14b) which is to say, each end (14a) and (14b) is lifted or elevated twice during each 360 revolution or rotation of each drive shaft (3 and 4). Because the pivot axes of the clevises 6 and 7, at which are connected the centers of the yokes 8 and 9, are disposed at a 90 angle to each other, a total of four lifting phases must occur in each 360 rotation of the center or receptive link 14.
The lifting phase, when it occurs, occupies approximately a 57.5 segment of arc, but depending upon the payload and other variables, such as friction and smoothness of electrical opera-tion, the driving force itself may be usefully made to persistthrough 70 of arc, or even slightly more.
Given 70 to be the case, this means that if the driving force is imparted to each shaft (3 and 4) only during the two lift phases, each shaft is driven for a total of only 140 per complete shaft rotation, and this 140 consists of two 70 segments of arc that are diametrically opposite each other, or 180 apart, as is shown in FIG. 9 & 10.
The embodiments of my invention differ from the prior art drive systems in that they accomplish the delivery of a discon-tinuous drive in alternate manner to each shaft, i.e., not acontinuous application of torque to one or more shafts.
"Discontinuous" in the sense used in this specification, therefore, means that during the remaining 220 of rotation of ~ 9 ~3 ~
either shaft, substantially no driving force whatever is imparted directly to the respective shaft (3 and 4), but is instead con-veyed indirectly, via the motion of the center link 14, from the other shaft.
"Continuous" means that a driving force is applied to one or both shafts, and this is caused to vary in speed so as to accom-modate the speed variations of the shaft(s) without special attention being given to the lifting phase.
As mentioned, the drive system embodiments are intended to be used with drive shafts (3 and 4) which are disposed in verti-cal attitudes, but may also be used with shafts which are other-wise disposed, say horizontally, as described.
The means to impart motive power to the shafts 3 and 4 will be described next. FIG. 3 shows a pneumatic system, i.e., a system using either a gaseous or fluid medium to power or drive the shafts 3 and 4. For this, the shafts 3 and 4 carry co-planar disks 20 and 22, i.e., the disks 20 and 22 are positioned so as to extend in the same plane, and mounted thereat are position indicators 23 and 24 which, in turn, co-operate with posi~ion-sensors 25. The position-sensors 25 serve to actuate a pair of piston/cylinder units 27 and 28. These piston/cylinder units 27 and 28 are double-acting units, controlled by valves 29 which are arranged in lines 30, and connected to a reservoir 31 with motor 32, as will be readily understood from perusal of FIG. 3.
The drive system embodiment shown in FIGs. 4 & 5 comprises a linear motor system with two linear motors 40 and 41 which co-operate with the magnetic sensors or switches 25a and 26a and with the position indicators 23a and 24a of disks 20 and 22 for .
shafts 3 and 4. The controller 33 can supply AC or DC current to the system. The feature of this embodiment resides in the overlapping of portions of the diameters of the discs 20 and 22, which allows a larger effective diameter, which, in turn, allows a slower angular velocity or speed.
FIG. 5 indicates the arrangement of the elements of FIG. 4 in side elevation.
The embodiment of FIG. 4 need not use sensors (25a, 26a) and position indicators (23a, 24a), thereby providing a continuous drive system. In such an embodiment continuous application of power can be used to drive either one shaft, or several shafts.
FIG. 6 shows paddles rotating with respect to a two-sided linear motor 34 whereby a trailing edge 35 of a paddle 36 is at a variable, pre-determined distance with respect to the leading tip 38 of the other paddle 37. The feature of this embodiment allows the same motor 34 to power both shafts 3 and 4.
FIG. 7 indicates the arrangement of the elements of FIG. 6 in side elevation.
FIG. 8 shows a drive system with two-way linear actuators 20 40 (AC or DC) with magnetic sensors 25b in lines 30a, the latter being connected to controller 33a. It will be understood that the actuators 40 are mounted so as to allow them to follow the rotating movement of the disks 20 and 22 to which they are re-spectively connected.
The primary difficulty that has been addressed in my appli-cation of the inversion linkage mechanism, particularly in mixer applications, is due to the fact that the geometry of the linkaye - causes the speed of rotation of the respective drive shafts to be "3 3 non-linear. Thus, the speed of rotation of each shaft must be altered four times during each 360 rotation. This speed al-teration takes the form of a gradual acceleration to a high speed or speed level, followed by a gradual deceleration to a low speed or speed level, both arising in the space of each 180 rotation of a shaft. This pattern is then repeated in each successive 180 rotation of a shaft.
The ratio between the highest speed and the lowest speed is approximately 2:1, and in case of two drive shafts these condi-tions are always exactly 90 out of phase with each other. Thismeans that when one shaft is at its fastest level or point, the other is always at its slowest level or point.
In some cases both shafts may be driven, and in other cases only one shaft is driven, but in all cases in the prior art the drive is continuously delivered to the shaft, and, by differing methods, made to vary in speed in such a ~anner that approximate- ~;
ly matches the requirements of the inversion linkage of the system.
It will be understood that the embodiments illustrated in the aforesaid are primarily used for describing the present invention, but not as limiting my present invention. Any struc-ture or apparatus made with or without minor modifications but not deviating from the spirit, concept and features of the present invention is deemed as being included in the scope of the 25 claims of my invention. -~ -;~
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wavering and rotating movements to a receptacle, comprisiny: a frame to removably receive the receptacle, a base member, a pair of shafts spaced to rotate vertically from the base member, a pair of bearings connecting the shafts from the frame, means for rotating one of said shafts, each bearing including two forked members interconnected at right angles to each other of which one forked member is connected to the shaft and the other to the frame.
Schatz also relates to a mechanism for producing wavering and rotating movements, comprising a frame adapted to hold a receptacle, a pair of fork members, one near each end of the frame, the axis of rotation of the fork rnembers on the frame being at righ' angles to each other, and a second pair of forks each pivotally connected to the mid section of its respective first-mentioned fork member on an axis which is at right angles to said respective first mentioned fork member, each second fork having an extension in the form of a shaft of which both shafts are parallel to each other.
At least one of the shafts is a dri.ving shaft to rotate all the forks and the frame with a wavering motion added to the rotatory motion for the frame.
Schatz also claims a mechanism for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of a receptacle, comprising a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link~
work, of which at least one link serves as receptacle having a supporting device, driving means for the link-work, the recep-tive link being hinged at both ends to two horse-shoe shaped links, which overlap the receptive link, the axes of the two a~ --. ~ : . . ., . , , .. . . .. ~ :, : ~ "
~ 3 hinges being at right angles to each other in different planes.
Schatz also claims the mechanism for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of a receptacle, comprising a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as receptacle having asupporting device, driving means for the link-work, the receptive link being hinged at both ends to two horse-shoe shaped links, which overlap the receptive link, the axes of the two hinges being at right angles to each other in different planes, the two horse-shoe shaped links being hinged in the middle to two fork~
shaped members, the axes of the fork-shaped members being at right angles to the axes of the adjoining horse-shoe shaped hinges in different planes.
As well, the mechanism for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of a receptacle, comprising a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as receptacle having a supporting device, driving means for the link-work, the recep-tive link being hinged at both ends to two horse-shoe shaped links, which overlap the receptive link, the axes of the two hinges being at right angles to each other in different planes, the two horse-shoe shaped links being hinged in the middle to two fork-shaped members, the a~es of the fork-shaped members being at right angles to the axes of the adjoining horse-shoe shaped ~ -hinges in different planes, and the two fork-shaped members being inflexibly prolonged into two shafts, which are rotatably mounted in the supporting device so that they are parallel.
,. ..
As well, the Schatz patent of 1942 refers to the mechanism :: ' ' ' , ` : ' :' , :' , : ' : ': , ' ' ' ', ' , ! ' ~ :
: ,. ', . : ' ' ' , 2 ~ `f ~
for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of a receptacle, comprising [a] a closed and con-strained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link ~receptive link] serves as receptacle and having a supporting device, [b] driving means for the link-work, the receptive link being hinged at both ends to [c] two horse-shoe shaped links, which overlap the receptive link, the axes of the two hinges being at right angles to each other in different planes, the two horse-shoe shaped links being hinged in the middle to [d] two fork-shaped members, the axes of the fork-shaped members being at right angles to the axes of the ad-joining horse-shoe shaped hinges in different planes, the two fork-shaped members being inflexibly prolonged into two shafts, which are rotatably mounted in the supporting device so that they are parallel, and one of the two rotatably mounted shafts being coupled to [e] a motor by [f] a driving means.
U. S. Patent No. 3,475,976 of November 4, 1969, to James M.
Steinke and assigned to The National Cash Register Company, re-lates to a transmission device having aligned input and output shafts with yokes on their adjacent ends. The yoke on the input shaft rotatably supports a block having a pin projecting there-from with the outer end thereof secured to the inner race of a bearing utilized as a support structure. An arcuate link is pivotally joined to said outer end and to one leg of the yoke on said output member. The outer race of said bearing may be ad-justably fixed relative to the frame means of the device to provide for a change in the velocity fluctuation of the output shaft.
., ~ . . :. . ., , 2 ~ 3 u.S. Patent No. 3,824,866 of July 23, 1974r issued to Paul Schatz, refers to an apparatus for generating a wobble motion with a wobbIe [oloid] body. An endless band is secured to the wobble body for transmitting motion thereto. The endless band is formed of a flat circular ring band which is bent about axes parallel to two perpendicular diameters. In position, the endless band includes a symmetry plane which extends through one of the body suspension means. A drive mechanism secured to a frame imparts motion to the wobble body via the endless bandO
The wobble body is rotatably secured to said frame by suspension means.
There has remained, however, the need to provide an effec-tive and selective drive system for use with apparatus including an inversion linkage mechanism.
Summary of the Invention ~-Included in the objects of my invention are:
To provide an apparatus which is simple in operation and construction.
It is also an object of my invention to provide a drive system that will permit the inversion linkage to be used with a ~ . - :- :
larger number of applications.
It is further an object of the invention to provide a drive ; ~;
system that will permit the inversion linkage to be used with machines having greater capacities.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a drive system which is more economical than prior art apparatus.
In accordance with one aspect of my invention, there is provided the improvement in an apparatus for producing a combi-::
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.. ~ .: ,, : . : . . ~ , ,.. : . . :-.:, :;
. :: ': : :- .' ' : : ' , . . . , :.::, ' , , ::, . : .
nation of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of material in a container, comprising: [a] a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as said container; and [b] means for driving said link-work, said driving means exerting substantially only thrusting power.
In accordance with a further aspect of my invention, there is provided an apparatus for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of material in a container, comprising: [a] a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as receptacle for said container; [b] means for securing said container in said receptacle; and [c] rhythmically-modulated driving means for imparting only thrusting rather than rotating power from its source.
In accordance with another aspect of my invention, there is provided a method of imparting rhythmically-modulated movements to an inversion linkage system which is comprised of a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as receptive link for a container, the receptive link being hinged at both ends to two horse-shoe shaped links, which overlap the receptive link, the axes of the two hinges being at right angles to each other in different planes, the two horse-shoe shaped links being hinged in the middle to two fork-shaped members, the axes of the fork-shaped members being at right angles to the axes of the adjoining horse-shoe shaped hinges ln different planes, the two fork-shaped members being inflexibly prolonged into two shafts, which are rotatably mounted in the supporting device so that they are parallel, both of the two , 3 rotatably mounted shafts being coupled to motive power imparting means exerting substantially only thrust, comprising the step of supplying thrusting power such that for every 360 rotation of a respective shaft there are two phases during which a lifting of the receptive link takes place such that the said two horse-shoe shaped links are perpendicular with respect to one another.
Description of the Drawing Other and further objects and advantages of the invention will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:-FIG. 1 is a side elevation of a mixer embodiment showingschematically the drive system with vertically disposed shafts with the receptive link being at its highest point or position of the lifting motion;
FIG. 2 is a view similar to FIG. 1 with the receptive link shown to be at its mid-point position of the lifting motion;
FIG. 3 is a top plan view of a hydraulic drive system embodiment of my invention;
FIG. 4 is a top plan view of a linear induction motor drive system wherein overlapping armature elements are used;
FIG. 5 is the side elevation of the embodiment of FIG. 4;
FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a linear induction motor drive system in which the armature paddle elements are located in the same plane; and FIG. 7 is the side elevation of the embodiment of FIG. 6;
FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a drive system with a linear actuator; and 2 ~
FIGs. 9 and 10, appearing on the sheet with FIGs. 1 and 2, are diagrams showing the various phases for two vertically disposed drive shafts.
Alike elements in the following description are identified by like reference designations.
Turning to FIG. 1, this shows a base 1 from which project vertically disposed shafts 3 and 4, which are suitably journaled in the enclosure 2 of base 1. The drive system contained in base 1 is generally identified by reference designations M1 and M2, and this will be described in greater detail in the following.
The torque imparted to shafts 3 and 4 is respectively transmitted to clevises 6 and 7 and thence to yokes 8 and 9 which, in turn, are linked to the receptacle identified by reference designation R. The receptacle R is the center or receptive link 14, of the inversion linkage mechanism I, which has connections 10, 11, 12, and 13.
Usually, the center link 14 serves as the receptacle R for a container, omitted in the drawings. Such container is then in shape so as to fit into the receptacle R. The container may have the configuration of a wobble body as is shown in U.S. Patent No.
3,824,866 of Paul Schatz, mentioned above.
It will be appreciated that the elements described thus far form a closed and constrained invertible kinematic linkage or link-work, with the receptive center link 14, serving as :25 receptacle R, being respectively hinged at its two ends, 14a and 14b, by way of the connections 10 - 13, to a respective one of two horse-shoe or yoke shaped links 8 and 9, which respectively embrace the receptive center link 14. The respective central 2 ~ ' 3 axes of the two pair of hinges (10, 11) and (12, 13) extend a-t right angles to each other in different planes, and the -two yokes or links 8 and 9 are hin~ed at their respective mid-points to the clevises 6 and 7, with the axes of these clevises, members or elements, being at right angles to the central axes of the ad-joining horse-shoe shaped yokes or links 8 and 9 in different planes, and the clevises or fork-shaped members 5 and 6 being extensions of, or inflexibly prolonged into, the two parallel shafts 3 and 4, which are rotatably mounted in the base or supporting device 1.
FIGs. 1 and 2, taken together with FIGs. 9 and 10, indicate the operation of the inversion linkage mechanism I with torque being applied to vertically disposed drive shaft 3 and 4.
In every 360 rotation of a respective shaft (3 and 4) there are only two phases, indicated by segments of arc, during which "lifting" of the center link 14 takes place.
With respect to the vertically disposed shafts (3 and 4), "lifting" in this specification refers to the fact that the yokes 8 and 9 are positioned perpendicularly with respect to one another and the right-hand end 14a of the center link 14, has been raised from the mid-way point or position in the lifting motion of the inversion linkage mechanism I. The mid-way position is indicated in FIG. 2 and the yokes 8 and 9 are now positioned parallel with respect to one another. The mid-way points are on lines X - X in FIGs. 9 and 10, and the highest point or position of the lifting motion, as is indicated in FIG.
1, are on lines Y - Y in FIGs. 9 & 10.
In the case of horizontally disposed shafts (3 and 4), the ., .
2 0 ~ F~ 3 3 motions are analogous.
During each complete cycle of motion of the center link 14, the end 14a is subjected twice to this lifting, i.e., there are two lifting phases for the end 14a of the link 14, and two at the other end (14b) which is to say, each end (14a) and (14b) is lifted or elevated twice during each 360 revolution or rotation of each drive shaft (3 and 4). Because the pivot axes of the clevises 6 and 7, at which are connected the centers of the yokes 8 and 9, are disposed at a 90 angle to each other, a total of four lifting phases must occur in each 360 rotation of the center or receptive link 14.
The lifting phase, when it occurs, occupies approximately a 57.5 segment of arc, but depending upon the payload and other variables, such as friction and smoothness of electrical opera-tion, the driving force itself may be usefully made to persistthrough 70 of arc, or even slightly more.
Given 70 to be the case, this means that if the driving force is imparted to each shaft (3 and 4) only during the two lift phases, each shaft is driven for a total of only 140 per complete shaft rotation, and this 140 consists of two 70 segments of arc that are diametrically opposite each other, or 180 apart, as is shown in FIG. 9 & 10.
The embodiments of my invention differ from the prior art drive systems in that they accomplish the delivery of a discon-tinuous drive in alternate manner to each shaft, i.e., not acontinuous application of torque to one or more shafts.
"Discontinuous" in the sense used in this specification, therefore, means that during the remaining 220 of rotation of ~ 9 ~3 ~
either shaft, substantially no driving force whatever is imparted directly to the respective shaft (3 and 4), but is instead con-veyed indirectly, via the motion of the center link 14, from the other shaft.
"Continuous" means that a driving force is applied to one or both shafts, and this is caused to vary in speed so as to accom-modate the speed variations of the shaft(s) without special attention being given to the lifting phase.
As mentioned, the drive system embodiments are intended to be used with drive shafts (3 and 4) which are disposed in verti-cal attitudes, but may also be used with shafts which are other-wise disposed, say horizontally, as described.
The means to impart motive power to the shafts 3 and 4 will be described next. FIG. 3 shows a pneumatic system, i.e., a system using either a gaseous or fluid medium to power or drive the shafts 3 and 4. For this, the shafts 3 and 4 carry co-planar disks 20 and 22, i.e., the disks 20 and 22 are positioned so as to extend in the same plane, and mounted thereat are position indicators 23 and 24 which, in turn, co-operate with posi~ion-sensors 25. The position-sensors 25 serve to actuate a pair of piston/cylinder units 27 and 28. These piston/cylinder units 27 and 28 are double-acting units, controlled by valves 29 which are arranged in lines 30, and connected to a reservoir 31 with motor 32, as will be readily understood from perusal of FIG. 3.
The drive system embodiment shown in FIGs. 4 & 5 comprises a linear motor system with two linear motors 40 and 41 which co-operate with the magnetic sensors or switches 25a and 26a and with the position indicators 23a and 24a of disks 20 and 22 for .
shafts 3 and 4. The controller 33 can supply AC or DC current to the system. The feature of this embodiment resides in the overlapping of portions of the diameters of the discs 20 and 22, which allows a larger effective diameter, which, in turn, allows a slower angular velocity or speed.
FIG. 5 indicates the arrangement of the elements of FIG. 4 in side elevation.
The embodiment of FIG. 4 need not use sensors (25a, 26a) and position indicators (23a, 24a), thereby providing a continuous drive system. In such an embodiment continuous application of power can be used to drive either one shaft, or several shafts.
FIG. 6 shows paddles rotating with respect to a two-sided linear motor 34 whereby a trailing edge 35 of a paddle 36 is at a variable, pre-determined distance with respect to the leading tip 38 of the other paddle 37. The feature of this embodiment allows the same motor 34 to power both shafts 3 and 4.
FIG. 7 indicates the arrangement of the elements of FIG. 6 in side elevation.
FIG. 8 shows a drive system with two-way linear actuators 20 40 (AC or DC) with magnetic sensors 25b in lines 30a, the latter being connected to controller 33a. It will be understood that the actuators 40 are mounted so as to allow them to follow the rotating movement of the disks 20 and 22 to which they are re-spectively connected.
The primary difficulty that has been addressed in my appli-cation of the inversion linkage mechanism, particularly in mixer applications, is due to the fact that the geometry of the linkaye - causes the speed of rotation of the respective drive shafts to be "3 3 non-linear. Thus, the speed of rotation of each shaft must be altered four times during each 360 rotation. This speed al-teration takes the form of a gradual acceleration to a high speed or speed level, followed by a gradual deceleration to a low speed or speed level, both arising in the space of each 180 rotation of a shaft. This pattern is then repeated in each successive 180 rotation of a shaft.
The ratio between the highest speed and the lowest speed is approximately 2:1, and in case of two drive shafts these condi-tions are always exactly 90 out of phase with each other. Thismeans that when one shaft is at its fastest level or point, the other is always at its slowest level or point.
In some cases both shafts may be driven, and in other cases only one shaft is driven, but in all cases in the prior art the drive is continuously delivered to the shaft, and, by differing methods, made to vary in speed in such a ~anner that approximate- ~;
ly matches the requirements of the inversion linkage of the system.
It will be understood that the embodiments illustrated in the aforesaid are primarily used for describing the present invention, but not as limiting my present invention. Any struc-ture or apparatus made with or without minor modifications but not deviating from the spirit, concept and features of the present invention is deemed as being included in the scope of the 25 claims of my invention. -~ -;~
- 15 - ;~
::: i: i ,~ ~.,
Claims (17)
1. The improvement in an apparatus for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of material in a container, comprising:
[a] a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as said container;
and [b] means for driving said link-work, said driving means exerting substantially only thrusting power.
[a] a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as said container;
and [b] means for driving said link-work, said driving means exerting substantially only thrusting power.
2. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein said container is a wobble body having oloid configuration.
3. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein thrust is provided by at least one hydraulic piston/cylinder unit.
4. The apparatus according to Claim 3, wherein thrust is provided by a pair of hydraulic piston/cylinder units operating in alternate manner.
5. The apparatus according to Claims 3 and 4, wherein at least one hydraulic piston/cylinder unit is controlled subject to the rotation of a respective shaft.
6. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein said driving means includes at least one linear motor.
7. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein said driving means includes at least one linear actuator.
8. The apparatus according to Claims 6 and 7, wherein one of AC
or DC is applied to said linear motor and said linear actuator.
or DC is applied to said linear motor and said linear actuator.
9. The apparatus according to Claim 7, wherein two linear actuators are arranged to operate in alternating manner.
10. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein said driving means includes at least one armature connected to a respective shaft; and means for sensing the position of said armature.
11. The apparatus according to Claim 6, wherein said linear motor powers overlapping armature elements.
12. The apparatus according to Claim 6, wherein said at least one linear motor powers co-planar armature paddles disposed to leave an operative gap when in a respective rotational attitude with respect to one another.
13. An apparatus for producing a combination of rotating, tumbling and shaking movements of material in a container, comprising:
[a] a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as receptacle for said container;
[b] means for securing said container in said receptacle;
and [c] rhythmically-modulated driving means for imparting only thrusting rather than rotating power from its source.
[a] a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as receptacle for said container;
[b] means for securing said container in said receptacle;
and [c] rhythmically-modulated driving means for imparting only thrusting rather than rotating power from its source.
14. A method of imparting rhythmically-modulated movements to an inversion linkage system which is comprised of a closed and constrained invertible kinematic link-work, of which at least one link serves as receptive link for a container, the receptive link being hinged at both ends to two horse-shoe shaped links, which overlap the receptive link, the axes of the two hinges being at right angles to each other in different planes, the two horse-shoe shaped links being hinged in the middle to two fork-shaped members, the axes of the fork-shaped members being at right angles to the axes of the adjoining horse-shoe shaped hinges in different planes, the two fork-shaped members being inflexibly prolonged into two shafts, which are rotatably mounted in the supporting device so that they are parallel, both of the two rotatably mounted shafts being coupled to motive power imparting means exerting substantially only thrust, comprising the step of supplying thrusting power such that for every 360° rotation of a respective shaft there are two phases during which a lifting of the receptive link takes place such that the said two horse-shoe shaped links are perpendicular with respect to one another.
15. The method of Claim 14, wherein lifting occupies approxima-tely a 57.5° segment of arc.
16. The method of Claim 14, wherein the driving force is applied for 70° segment of arc.
17. The method of Claim 14, wherein the driving force is applied for 75° segment of arc.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2086053 CA2086053A1 (en) | 1992-12-22 | 1992-12-22 | Apparatus with inversion linkage mechanism |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2086053 CA2086053A1 (en) | 1992-12-22 | 1992-12-22 | Apparatus with inversion linkage mechanism |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2086053A1 true CA2086053A1 (en) | 1994-06-23 |
Family
ID=4150891
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2086053 Abandoned CA2086053A1 (en) | 1992-12-22 | 1992-12-22 | Apparatus with inversion linkage mechanism |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2086053A1 (en) |
-
1992
- 1992-12-22 CA CA 2086053 patent/CA2086053A1/en not_active Abandoned
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