GB2579066A - Apparatus for converting motion - Google Patents

Apparatus for converting motion Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2579066A
GB2579066A GB1818748.4A GB201818748A GB2579066A GB 2579066 A GB2579066 A GB 2579066A GB 201818748 A GB201818748 A GB 201818748A GB 2579066 A GB2579066 A GB 2579066A
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United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
arm
assembly
assembly according
component
distance
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Granted
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GB1818748.4A
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GB2579066B (en
GB201818748D0 (en
Inventor
Martyn David
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Ten Fold Engineering Ltd
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Ten Fold Engineering Ltd
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Priority to GB1818748.4A priority Critical patent/GB2579066B/en
Publication of GB201818748D0 publication Critical patent/GB201818748D0/en
Publication of GB2579066A publication Critical patent/GB2579066A/en
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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/343—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport
    • E04B1/344—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport with hinged parts
    • E04B1/3441—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport with hinged parts with articulated bar-shaped elements
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F10/00—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins
    • E04F10/02—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins of flexible canopy materials, e.g. canvas ; Baldachins
    • E04F10/04—Sunshades, e.g. Florentine blinds or jalousies; Outside screens; Awnings or baldachins of flexible canopy materials, e.g. canvas ; Baldachins with material fixed on sections of a collapsible frame especially Florentine blinds
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/343—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16H—GEARING
    • F16H21/00—Gearings comprising primarily only links or levers, with or without slides
    • F16H21/04—Guiding mechanisms, e.g. for straight-line guidance
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16H—GEARING
    • F16H21/00—Gearings comprising primarily only links or levers, with or without slides
    • F16H21/10—Gearings comprising primarily only links or levers, with or without slides all movement being in, or parallel to, a single plane
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16H—GEARING
    • F16H21/00—Gearings comprising primarily only links or levers, with or without slides
    • F16H21/10—Gearings comprising primarily only links or levers, with or without slides all movement being in, or parallel to, a single plane
    • F16H21/44—Gearings comprising primarily only links or levers, with or without slides all movement being in, or parallel to, a single plane for conveying or interconverting oscillating or reciprocating motions

Abstract

An assembly 2 for converting motion comprising a first arm 8 rotatable at a first position about a first fixed pivot 4; a second arm 10 rotatable at a first position about a second fixed pivot 6; a third arm 12 pivotably connected at a first position on the third arm to a second position on the second arm spaced from the first position; a fourth arm 16 pivotably connected to a second position on the first arm spaced from the first position and to a second position on the third arm spaced from the first position; a connecting arm 22 pivotably connected to the second position on the first arm and to a third position on the second arm between the first and second positions; with a point A on the third arm spaced from the first position on the third arm and located such that the second position on the third arm lies between the point and the first position, movement of the third arm between a retracted position and an extended position causing the point to move in a substantially straight line extending perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots. The assembly may be used to extend balconies, walls, floor or roof extensions, or canopies from a house, apartment, office building, or caravan, or to move a video or television screen or a monitor.

Description

APPARATUS FOR CONVERTING MOTION
The present invention relates to an apparatus for converting motion. In a further aspect, the present invention provides an assembly comprising the apparatus, including but not limited to an expandable building assembly.
Mechanisms for converting motion, in particular producing a straight line motion from a rotational motion are known in the art. Such straight line mechanisms may be characterised by comprising a first member rotatable about an axis passing through the member and a second member linked to or associated with the first member, the arrangement being such that rotational movement of the first member about the axis results in a straight line movement of the second member.
Examples of early mechanisms for producing a straight line motion include the straight line mechanism design by James Watt, comprising a series of three levers in end-to-end configuration, with movement of the two end levers about pivots at their free ends causing the middle lever to follow a close approximation to a straight line over a portion of its movement. A related linkage comprising three levers, with the middle lever constrained to follow a straight line was proposed by Tchebicheff. The Peaucellier-Lipkin inversor consists of an arrangement of seven levers and provides a conversion of circular motion into linear motion and vice versa. A related four-lever mechanism was proposed by Hart. A linear converter, known as the half beam mechanism, in which a first linear motion is converted to a second linear motion perpendicular to the first, was designed by Scott Russell.
An analysis of a variety of multi-lever, straight line linkages is provided 30 by Dijksman, E.A. 'Advances in Robot Kinematics and Computationed Geometry', pages 411 to 420, [1994] Kluwer Academic Publishers.
US 4,248,103 discloses a straight line mechanism, in particular a mechanism of the so-called conchoid' type. There is disclosed a linkage mechanism for an industrial manipulator comprising at least two of the said straight line mechanisms.
US 4,400,985 concerns a straight line link mechanism, comprising a plurality of pivotally connected links. The links are connected between a support and a controlled member. As one of the links is moved in a 360° arc, the controlled member alternately moves in a first direction along a linear path and thereafter in the opposite direction along a curved path. The weight of the controlled member may be balanced by the use of a counter weight, to provide a lifting mechanism. A cam may be employed to control the motion of the controlled member.
More recently, US 4,747,353 discloses a straight line motion mechanism formed from a pair linkage mechanisms arranged in a parallelogram in combination with a motion control means. The motion control means interconnects the two linkage mechanisms and provide a uniform angular displacement of each linkage mechanism.
US 5,102,290 concerns a transfer device for transferring a workpiece from a first location to a second location. The workpiece is moved in a trochoidal arc by means of a pickup arm mounted to roll along a flat surface.
A straight line mechanism is disclosed in US 5,237,887. The mechanism comprises a static base and a platform supported by first and second arm assemblies. Each of the first and second arm assemblies comprises portions pivotally connected to the static base. The arrangement of the pivoted arm portions of each arm assembly is such that the platform is constrained to move in a straight line, as the portions of the arms move about their respective pivot connections.
Still more recently, WO 97/33725 discloses a device for the relative movement of two elements. The device comprises at least two first links connected to a first element by a hinged connection so as to form a four-hinge system and pivot in a plane parallel to the plane of the first element. At least two second links are connected to the second element so as to form a four-hinge system and to pivot in a plane parallel to the plane of the second element. The two four-hinge systems provided by the first and second links are coupled in series to allow relative motion of the first and second elements.
WO 99/14018 discloses a device for the relative movement of two elements. The device comprises at least two link devices coupled between the elements, each comprising two mutually articulated link units. A first link unit is connected to first, moveable element. The second of the link units is connected to the second, static element. Power applied to the link units causes the first element to move relative to the second.
A mechanical linkage is described and shown in US 2,506,151. The linkage comprises a plurality of interconnected levers. The linkage provides for movement of one member with respect to a fixed member. The linkage is specifically described and shown for use in providing movement for components of a chair, in particular to allow for movement of the seat of the chair in a rearwardly-downwardly and forwardly-upwardly direction. The linkage is indicated in US 2,506,151 to provide for movement of the moveable member in a straight path with respect to the fixed member.
US 2,529,451 discloses a linkage for a chair for a theatre. The linkage connects the seat portion of the seat to the back portion, allowing relative movement between the seat and the back.
Perhaps most recently, WO 2013/182834 discloses an assembly for converting motion. The assembly comprises: a first arm rotatable at a first position thereon about a first fixed pivot; a second arm rotatable at a first position thereon about a second fixed pivot, the second fixed pivot spaced apart from the first fixed pivot; a third arm pivotably connected at a first position thereon to the second arm at a second position on the second arm, the second position spaced apart from the first position on the second arm; a first connecting arm extending between the first arm and the third arm, the first connecting arm pivotably connected to a second position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position and pivotably connected to the third arm at a second position thereon spaced apart from the first position thereon; and a second connecting arm extending between the first arm and the second arm, the second connecting arm pivotably connected to a third position on the first arm disposed between the first and second positions thereon and pivotably connected to a third position on the second arm.
Developments of the assembly of WO 2013/182834 are disclosed in subsequently published documents, including WO 2014/029954, WO 2014/184513, W02015/033111, WO 2015/033116, W02016/030659, and WO 2016/030660.
In particular, WO 2016/030659 discloses an assembly of the general configuration of WO 2013/182834 with a locking assembly comprising a first locking member connected to one of the first second or third arms of one of the first or second connecting arms of the assembly and a second locking member.
There is a continuing need to provide improved assemblies for converting motion, in particular assemblies for providing movement and support to components to be moved. It would be particularly advantageous if the assembly could be in a compact form when in a retracted position It would also be advantageous if the assembly and its accompanying components could be supported and moved easily between the retracted position and an extended position.
There has now been found a development to the assembly described and shown in WO 2013/182834 which provides significant additional advantages in the operation of the assembly, in particular when used for moving and supporting components. More particularly, there has now been found a development to the assembly described in WO 2013/1828134 which provides increased rigidity and support when the assembly is in the extended position.
According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an assembly for converting motion, the assembly comprising: a first arm rotatable at a first position on the first arm about a first fixed pivot; a second arm rotatable at a first position on the second arm about a second fixed pivot, the second fixed pivot spaced apart from the first fixed pivot; a third arm pivotably connected at a first position on the third arm to the 25 second arm at a second position on the second arm, the second position on the second arm spaced apart from the first position on the second arm; a fourth arm pivotably connected at a first position on the fourth arm to a second position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position on the first arm and pivotably connected at a second position on the fourth arm spaced apart from the first position on the fourth arm to the third arm at a second position on the third arm spaced apart from the first position on the third arm; and a connecting arm extending between the first arm and the second arm, the connecting arm pivotably connected at a first position on the connecting arm to the second position on the first arm and pivotably connected at a second position on the connecting arm to a third position on the second arm, the third position on the second arm disposed between the first and second positions on the second arm; wherein the third arm comprises a point on the third arm, the said point on the third arm spaced from the first position on the third arm and located such that the second position on the third arm lies between the said point and the first position on the third arm, movement of the third arm between the retracted position and the extended position causing the said point to move in a substantially straight line extending perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots.
In operation of the assembly, rotation of the first arm about the first fixed pivot results in rotation of the second arm about the second fixed pivot and movement of the third arm. In particular, the third arm is caused to move such that a point on the third arm (herein referred to as 'the said point') spaced from the first position on the third arm and located such that the second position on the third arm lies between the said point and the first position moves in a straight line. Thus, rotational motion of the first arm and the second arm about their respective fixed pivots results in a straight line motion of the said point on the third arm. In this respect, it is to be noted that the said point on the third arm referred to traces a line that is substantially straight, that is represents a very close approximation to a straight line. In particular, the path followed by the said point may be characterised as being a very flat sine wave, that is a sine wave of high wavelength and very low amplitude.
More particularly, movement of the assembly between a retracted position and an extended position results in movement of the said point on the third arm along a substantially straight line extending perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots. This is a particularly advantageous arrangement, for example when employing the assembly to provide movement of one component with respect to another component.
The assembly of the present invention may be arranged such that the arms of the assembly are accommodated in a very compact configuration in the retracted position, such as with the arms lying closely together or adjacent one another, for example one within the other. In one preferred embodiment, the arms are sized and arranged so that they all lie between the first and second fixed pivots in the retracted position. This compactness is a significant advantage of the assembly of this invention.
Further, in some embodiments of the assembly the said point on the third arm is arranged to be the forwardmost point of the assembly in the direction extending away from and to one side of the first and second fixed pivots during movement of the assembly. This arrangement provides significant advantages over known assemblies, where the point of the assembly moving in a straight line is contained within or otherwise surrounded by other components of the assembly.
It is a particularly preferred embodiment of the assembly of the present invention that all the components of the assembly are to one side only of the line joining the first and second fixed pivots when the assembly is moving between the retracted position and the extended position.
The point on the third arm referred to above is spaced from the first position on the third arm, with the second position on the third arm lying between the said point and the first position. The location of the said point will depend upon the length of the arms of the device and the positions of their interconnections. In one preferred embodiment, the said point is arranged to be at a distal location on the third arm, that is distal from the first and second positions on the third arm, preferably with the said point being located at the distal end of the third arm or in an end portion at the distal end of the arm.
The extent of the straight line motion of the said point on the third arm varies according the precise positioning of the connections between the arms.
For example, in one embodiment, it has been found that this close approximation to a straight line motion by the said point on the third arm occurs over a distance that is up to 85% of the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. Further embodiments provide motion of the said point on the third arm that follows a close approximation to a straight line for a distance up to or exceeding 100% of the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. References herein to a motion of the said point on the third arm in a 'straight line' are references to this movement.
As noted, the said point on the third arm moves in a pattern that is a close approximation to a straight line. The deviation of the movement of the said point from a straight line may be exemplified by the following: The arrangement of the assembly of the present invention may be varied depending upon the requirements. For example, the assembly may be arranged to provide a longer straight line movement of the said point on the third arm with a slightly greater deviation from a straight line. Alternatively, the assembly may be arranged to provide a shorter straight line movement of the said point, with the path traced by the said point being a closer approximation to a straight line with less deviation.
As noted above, in the assembly, the straight line path followed by the said point on the third arm extends perpendicular to the line joining the first and second pivot points. This is an advantage over assemblies of the prior art and allows the assembly of the present invention to be more versatile and have a wider range of applications. In particular, it allows the assembly to be placed or mounted on a plane and to have all motion of the components confined to one side of the plane. Thus, for example, the assembly may be used on a surface of a construction, such as a building or the like, and all components move from the retracted position to the extended position on one side of the plane, without encroaching on or requiring space on the other side of the plane.
The assembly has been defined hereinbefore by reference to a plurality of arms. It is to be understood that the term 'arm' is used as a general reference to any component that may be connected as hereinbefore described and/or moved about a pivot connection. Accordingly, the term 'arm' is to be understood as being a reference to any such component, regardless of shape or configuration.
As noted, operation of the assembly results in motion of the third arm.
It is to be understood that the assembly may be used to convert a rotational motion of the first or second arms about the first or second fixed pivots into a motion of the said point on the third arm, that is by having drive to the assembly provided at the first or second arms. Alternatively, the assembly may be used to convert a motion of the third arm into a rotational motion of the first and second arms, that is by having drive to the assembly applied at the third arm. As a further alternative, drive may be applied to one or more other arms or components of the assembly.
References herein to 'distal' and 'proximal' with respect to the position of components of the assembly are to be understood as being relative to the first and second fixed pivots in the extended position of the assembly, that is proximal' being at or towards the first and second fixed pivots and 'distal' being away from the first and second fixed pivots.
The assembly of the present invention is connected to a pair of fixed pivots comprising a first fixed pivot and a second fixed pivot. In this respect, the term 'fixed' as used in relation to the fixed pivots is a reference to the first and second pivots being fixed in relation to one another, such that the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is constant. The first and second fixed pivots are typically provided on a member or structure. The member or structure may be non-moveable, such as a building, or may be moveable. The components of the assembly are to be considered to be moveable with respect to the first and second fixed pivots and references to the movement of the components of the assembly are to be understood in this respect.
The fixed pivots are spaced apart and are fixed in relation to one another. In one embodiment, the line joining the first and second fixed pivots is arranged vertically, with the first fixed pivot above the second fixed pivot.
However, the assembly may have other orientations. In particular, the line joining the first and second fixed pivots may be arranged vertically with the second fixed pivot above the first fixed pivot. Other orientations are also possible, such as with the first and second fixed pivots arranged other than vertically. For example, the first and second fixed pivots may be arranged on a line extending horizontally.
The assembly of the present invention comprises a first arm. The first arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the first arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod.
The first arm is rotatable at a first position on the first arm about the first fixed pivot. Preferably, the first arm is pivotably mounted at a first position on the arm to the first fixed pivot. The pivotable connection at the first position of the first arm may be of any suitable form that allows rotation of the first arm about the first fixed pivot. For example, the pivotable connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through the arm and/or the first fixed pivot.
The first position on the first arm may be in any suitable location on the first arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the first arm.
The first arm may function as a driving arm for the assembly, that is have a force applied thereto so as to rotate the arm about the fixed pivot at the first position on the arm, thereby transferring drive to the other components of the assembly. Alternatively, the first arm may be a driven arm of the assembly, that is move about the fixed pivot under the action of the other components of the assembly.
The first arm may have any suitable length. However, generally, the ratio of the length of the first arm, that is the distance between the first and second positions on the first arm, to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots may range from 0.5 to 2.0, more preferably from 0.6 to 1.75, still more preferably from 0.75 to 1.5. The first arm is preferably no longer than, more preferably the same or shorter in length, than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. The ratio of the length of the first arm to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is therefore more preferably from 0.75 to 0.99, still more preferably from 0.8 to 0.99, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99. A ratio of about 0.92 to about 0.98 is particularly suitable for many applications. In this way, the first arm can lie between the first and second fixed pivots in the retracted position.
The assembly further comprises a second arm. The second arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the second arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod.
The second arm is rotatable at a first position on the second arm about the second fixed pivot. Preferably, the second arm is pivotably mounted at a first position on the second arm to the second fixed pivot. The pivotable connection at the first position of the second arm may be of any suitable form that allows rotation of the second arm about the second fixed pivot. For example, the pivotable connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through the arm and/or the second fixed pivot.
The first position on the second arm may be in any suitable location on the second arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the second arm.
The second arm may function as a driving arm for the assembly, that is have a force applied thereto so as to rotate the arm about the second fixed pivot at the first position on the arm, thereby transferring drive to the other components of the assembly. Alternatively, the second arm may be a driven arm of the assembly, that is move about the second fixed pivot under the action of the other components of the assembly.
The second arm may have any suitable length. The ratio of the length of the second arm, that is the distance between the first and second positions on the second arm, to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots may range from 0.5 to 2.0, more preferably from 0.6 to 1.75, still more preferably from 0.75 to 1.5. The second arm is preferably the same or shorter in length than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. The ratio of the length of the second arm to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is therefore more preferably from 0.75 to 0.99, still more preferably from 0.8 to 0.99, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99. A ratio of about 0.92 to about 0.98 is particularly suitable for many applications. In this way, the second arm can lie between the first and second fixed pivots in the retracted position.
The length of the second arm is preferably selected to be as long as possible, within the constraints of the other components of the assembly and the desired motion. In this way, the arc through which the second position on the second arm moves about the second fixed pivot has as large a radius as possible. This facilitates the positioning of the second connecting arm.
The second arm may be longer or shorter than the first arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first and second arms are of the same length.
The assembly further comprises a third arm. The third arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the third arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod.
The third arm is pivotably mounted at a first position on the third arm to the second arm at a second position on the second arm. The pivotable connection between the second and third arms may be of any suitable form that allows rotation of the third arm about the second position on the second arm. For example, the pivotable connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through one or both of the second and third arms about which one or both of the arms are free to move.
The third arm is pivotably connected to the second arm at a first position on the third arm and a second position on the second arm. The first position may be in any suitable location on the third arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the third arm.
The second position on the second arm is spaced apart from the first 5 position on the second arm. In one preferred embodiment, the second position on the second arm is at or adjacent the second end of the second arm.
In operation of the assembly, as noted above, the third arm has a position, point A, thereon that follows the path of a straight line when the assembly is moved between the retracted and extended positions. This point on the third arm is spaced apart from the first position on the third arm, that is the position on the third arm at which the second and third arms are pivotably connected together.
The third arm may be a driven arm, that is moved under the action of movement of the first and second arms. In this case, rotation of the first arm about the first fixed pivot causes the third arm to move, such that the said point on the third arm follows the straight line path between the retracted and extended positions. Alternatively, the third arm may be a driving arm, that is have a force applied thereto resulting in movement of the third arm, which in turn drives the other components of the assembly. For example, application of a straight line force to the said point on the third arm between the retracted and extended positions results in rotational movement of the first arm about the first fixed pivot and rotational movement of the second arm about the second fixed pivot.
The third arm is connected, preferably pivotably connected, to a component to be moved or deployed by the assembly. Preferably, the third arm is connected to the component at the said point on the third arm.
The third arm may have any suitable length. The ratio of the length of the third arm, that is the distance between the first position and the said point on the third arm, to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots may range from 0.5 to 2.0, more preferably from 0.6 to 1.75, still more preferably from 0.75 to 1.5. The third arm is preferably the same or shorter in length than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. The ratio of the length of the third arm to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is therefore more preferably from 0.75 to 0.99, still more preferably from 0.8 to 0.99, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99. A ratio of about 0.92 to about 0.98 is particularly suitable for many applications. In this way, the third arm can lie between the first and second fixed pivots in the retracted position.
Taking the length of the third arm to be the distance between the first position on the third arm and the said point on the third arm, the length of the third arm will be determined by the arrangement of the first and second arms, together with the fourth arm and the connecting arm. In some embodiments, the length of the third arm is less than that of the first and second arms, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99 of the length of the first and/or second arms. For example, with the first and second arms being of equal length and less than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots, the third arm has a length of about 0.975 of the length of the first and/or second arms.
In one preferred embodiment, the length of the third arm is the same as that of the first arm and/or the second arm. In one particularly preferred arrangement, the first, second and third arms are the same length. In this way, the assembly can be formed from a minimum number of different components.
The assembly further comprises a fourth arm. The fourth arm extends between the first arm and the third arm. The fourth arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the fourth arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod.
The fourth arm is pivotably connected to each of the first and third arms. The pivotable connections between the fourth arm and each of the first and third arms may be of any suitable form to allow the fourth arm to pivot about or with respect to each of the first and third arms. For example, the pivotable connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through one or both of the fourth arm and the second arm or the 10 third arm about which one or both of the arms are free to move.
The pivotable connections may be at any suitable location on the fourth arm. In one embodiment, the pivotable connection between the fourth arm and the first arm is at or adjacent one end of the fourth arm and/or the pivotable connection between the fourth arm and the third arm is at or adjacent the second end of the fourth arm. Alternatively, the fourth arm may extend beyond the first arm in the proximal direction towards the line joining the first and second fixed pivots. Alternatively, or in addition, the fourth arm may extend beyond the third arm in the distal direction away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots.
The fourth arm is connected to the first arm at a second position on the first arm. The second position on the first arm is spaced apart from the first position on the first arm. In one preferred embodiment, the second position on the first arm is at or adjacent the second end of the first arm.
The fourth arm is further pivotably connected to the third arm at a second position on the third arm, which second position is spaced apart from the first position on the third arm. The second position on the third arm lies between the first position on the third arm and the said point on the third arm.
The second position on the third arm may be selected according to a number of factors. First, the fourth arm acts to provide support for the third arm, in particular to assist in supporting any load applied to the third arm. The requirement for the third arm to be supported in this manner by the fourth arm is a factor in determining the location of the second position on the third arm.
Second, the overall strength and stability of the assembly is related to the length of the fourth arm, with the strength and stability reducing as the length of the fourth arm increases.
The fourth arm may have any suitable length. Its length may be the distance between the positions on the first and third arms between which the fourth arm extends.
Preferably, the distance between the first position on the fourth arm and the second position on the fourth arm is equal to the distance between the second position on the third arm and the position on the third arm at which the third arm is connected to a component to be moved. More preferably, the distance between the first position on the fourth arm and the second position on the fourth arm is equal to the distance between the second position on the third arm and the said point on the third arm.
In one preferred embodiment, the fourth arm extends perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots in the extended position.
The assembly further comprises a connecting arm. The connecting arm extends between the first arm and the second arm. The connecting arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the connecting arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod.
The connecting arm is pivotably mounted to each of the first and second arms. The pivotable connections between the connecting arm and each of the first and second arms may be of any suitable form to allow the connecting arm to pivot about each of the first and second arms. For example, the pivotable connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through one or both of the connecting arm and the first arm or the second arm about which one or both of the arms are free to move.
The pivotable connections may be at any suitable location on the connecting arm. In one embodiment, the pivotable connection between the connecting arm and the first arm is at or adjacent one end of the connecting arm and/or the pivotable connection between the connecting arm and the second arm is at or adjacent the second end of the connecting arm. Alternatively, the connecting arm may extend beyond the first arm in the proximal direction towards the line joining the first and second fixed pivots.
The connecting arm is connected at a first position on the connecting arm to the first arm at the second position on the first arm, such that the connecting arm is pivotally connected to the first arm and also pivotally connected to the fourth arm.
The connecting arm is further pivotally connected at a second position on the connecting arm to the second arm at a third position on the second arm. The third position on the second arm is spaced apart from and between the first and second positions on the second arm.
Preferably, the distance between the first and second positions on the connecting arm is equal to the distance between the first position and the third position on the second arm.
Preferably, the distance between the first and second positions on the connecting arm is equal to the distance between the first and second positions on the fourth arm.
Preferably, the distance between the first and second positions on the connecting arm is equal to the distance between the second position on the third arm and the position on the third arm at which the third arm is connected to a component to be moved. More preferably, the distance between the first and second positions on the connecting arm is equal to the distance between the second position on the third arm and the said point on the third arm.
In one preferred embodiment, the second connecting arm extends perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots in the extended position.
It is particularly preferred that both the fourth arm and the connecting arm extend perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots in the extended position. In this way, the connecting arm and the fourth arm extend along a single line extending perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots, when the assembly is in the extended position.
The arms of the assembly of the present invention may consist essentially of the first, second, third and fourth arms and the connecting arm described hereinbefore, together with the locking assembly as described hereinafter. Alternatively, the assembly may comprise one or more further arms connected to the aforementioned first, second, third and fourth arms and/or the connecting arm. Further arms may be added, for example, to provide additional support to one or more components being moved by the assembly and connected thereto.
For example, in one embodiment, the fourth arm extends beyond the third arm in the distal direction away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots. A support arm is pivotably connected at a first position on the support arm to the fourth arm at a third position on the fourth arm at a position on the fourth arm spaced from the first and second positions on the fourth arm and distal of the third arm. The support arm may be pivotably connected at a second position on the support arm to a component to be moved and supported. The component may also be pivotably connected to the third arm, for example at the said point on the third arm.
In one preferred embodiment, both the third arm and the support arm are povitably connected to a component to be moved and supported. More preferably, the distance between the first position on the support arm and the second position on the support arm is the same as the distance between the third position on the third arm and the position at which the third arm is pivotably connected to the component. This arrangement provides a number of advantages.
In particular, the component can be caused to rotate while being displaced between its retracted position and its extended position as the assembly moves between the retracted position and the extended position. More particularly, the component can be caused to rotate through 900 when moving from its retracted position to its extended position. This arrangement finds many uses. For example, in embodiments in which the component is a screen, the screen may be stowed in a position extending parallel to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots when the assembly is in the retracted position. When the assembly is moved to its extended position, the screen is displaced away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots and is rotated to extend perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots. For example, the first and second fixed pivots can be arranged to lie on a horizontal line. In this arrangement, the screen may be stowed in a substantially horizontal position and raised or lowered to a substantially vertical position when the assembly is extended.
In one preferred embodiment, the assembly comprises a fifth arm pivotably connected at a first position on the fifth arm to the first arm at a fourth position on the first arm.
The fifth arm may have any shape and configuration. A preferred form for the fifth arm is an elongate member, for example a bar or a rod. The fifth arm is pivotably mounted at a first position on the fifth arm to the first arm at a fourth position on the first arm. The pivotable connection between the first and fifth arms may be of any suitable form to allow the rotational movement of the fifth arm relative to the first arm. For example, the pivotable connection may comprise a pivot member, such as a pin, spindle or axle, passing through one or both of the arms about which the arms are free to move.
The fifth arm is pivotably connected to the first arm at a first position on the fifth arm and a fourth position on the first arm. The first position may be in any suitable location on the fifth arm. In one preferred embodiment, the first position is at or adjacent one end of the fifth arm, in particular the end of the fifth arm that is proximal to the first and second fixed pivots in the extended position.
The fourth position on the first arm is spaced apart from the first position on the first arm. In one preferred embodiment, the fourth position on the first arm is at or adjacent the second end of the first arm, that is the end distal of the first fixed pivot. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the fourth position on the first arm coincides with the second position on the first arm, that is the fifth arm is connected to the first arm at the same position as the fourth arm.
The fifth arm may be a driven arm, that is moved under the action of movement of the first and second arms. In this case, rotation of the first arm about the first fixed pivot causes the fifth arm to move. Alternatively, the fifth arm may be a driving arm, that is have a force applied thereto resulting in movement of the fifth arm, which in turn drives the other components of the assembly to result in movement of the first arm about the first fixed pivot and the second arm about the second fixed pivot.
The fifth arm may be connected to an object to be moved relative to the first and second fixed pivots. The connection between the fifth arm and the object is preferably in the region of, more preferably at, the end of the fifth arm that is distal of the first and second fixed pivots.
It has been found that when the fifth arm is connected to an object to be moved there is a position on the fifth arm, herein referred to as 'the said point' on the fifth arm, that moves in a substantially straight line, corresponding to the movement of the said point on the third arm described in detail above. The connection between the fifth arm and the object is preferably in the region of, more preferably at, this position on the fifth arm.
Taking the length of the fifth arm to be the distance between the first position on the fifth arm and the said point on the fifth arm, the length of the fifth arm will be determined by the arrangement of the first and second arms, together with the fourth arm and the connecting arm. The length of the fifth arm is preferably less than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots. In this way, the fifth arm may be accommodated between the first and second fixed pivots, when the assembly is in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the length of the fifth arm is less than that of the first and second arms, in particular from 0.9 to 0.99 of the length of the first and/or second arms. For example, with the first and second arms being of equal length and less than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots, the fifth arm has a length of about 0.975 of the length of the first and second arms.
In alternative embodiments, the length of the fifth arm is the same as that of the first arm and/or the second arm. Preferably, the length of the fifth arm is the same as the length of the third arm. In one particularly preferred arrangement, the first, second, third and fifth arms are the same length.
In one embodiment, both the third arm and the fifth arm are connected to the same object to be moved, most preferably with both arms connected to the object at the said point on each of the third and fifth arm.
In an alternative embodiment, each of the third and fifth arms is connected to a respective component or object to be moved. In this way, two components or objects may be moved independently of each other by the same assembly.
As noted above, the assembly may comprise additional arms. Such additional arms may be rigidly connected to one of the aforementioned arms of the assembly or may be pivotably connected to an aforementioned arm.
The additional arms may be provided to provide support for one or more components or structures to be moved by the assembly. Alternatively or in addition, the additional arms may be provided to extend the distance a component or object may be moved and supported relative to the first and second fixed pivots.
It is an advantage of the assembly of present invention that it is highly scaleable and may be constructed and applied at a wide range of scales to convert motion, as described hereinbefore.
The assembly of the present invention finds wide applications and uses, in particular by allowing relative movement between a first component and a second component.
Accordingly, in a further aspect, the present invention provides an assembly comprising a first component and a second component, the first component being arranged for movement with respect to the second component, wherein an assembly as hereinbefore described is provided between the first component and second component, operation of the assembly providing movement of the first component with respect to the second component.
One of the first and second components is connected to the third arm of the assembly and, optionally to the fifth arm in embodiments having a fifth arm. The other of the first and second components provides the first and second fixed pivot points to which the first and second arms are pivotally connected. In this way, movement of the first component with respect to the second component is effected. As noted above, such relative movement may be effected by applying a force to the first arm, the second arm or to the third arm of the assembly.
In many applications, a plurality of assemblies of the present invention is employed. In particular, a plurality of assemblies may be employed in a spaced apart relationship, for example on opposing sides of an object or component to be moved. For example, a first and second assembly may be provided on opposing sides of an object or component to be moved with the third arms of two assemblies connected to opposing sides of the object or corriponent.
As noted above, in one preferred embodiment, the component to be moved is a screen, such as a television screen, a video screen or a monitor.
Applications of the assembly of the present invention to convert rotational motion to linear motion include the support and movement of building structures relative to one another.
Accordingly, the present invention further provides a building comprising: a first building portion and a second building portion, the first building portion being moveable relative to the second building portion between a retracted position and an extended position; wherein relative movement between the first and the second building portions and support of one of the first and second building portions with respect to the other of the first and second building portions are provided by an assembly as hereinbefore described.
The first building portion may be any structure or part of a building, in particular a fixed structure, such as a house, apartment or office building, or a mobile building structure, such as a mobile house, caravan or the like. The second building structure may be any structure or component of the installation that is required to be moved relative to the first building portion between the retracted and extended positions. Examples of such structures include balconies, walls, floor extensions, roof extensions, canopies and the like.
The principles and operation of the assembly of the present invention will be further explained by reference to the accompanying figures, in which: Figure 1 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a first embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 2a is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 1 in a retracted position; Figure 2b is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 1 in a first partially extended position; Figure 2c is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 1 in a second partially extended position; Figure 2d is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 1 in a third partially extended position; Figure 3 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according 20 to a second embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 4a is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 3 in a partially retracted position; Figure 4b is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 3 in a first partially extended position; Figure 4c is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 3 in a second partially extended position; Figure 4d is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 3 in a third partially extended position; Figure 5 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a third embodiment of the present invention in an extended position; Figure 6a is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 5 in a retracted position; Figure 6b is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure in a first partially extended position; Figure 6c is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 5 in a second partially extended position; Figure 6d is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 5 in a third partially extended position; Figure 7 is a diagrammatical representation of an assembly according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention in an extended position, Figure 8a is a diagrammatical representation of a screen assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention in a retracted position, Figure 8b is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 8a in a first partially extended position; Figure Sc is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 8a in a second partially extended position; Figure 8d is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 8a in a third partially extended position; Figure 8e is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 8a in a fourth partially extended position; and Figure 8f is a diagrammatical representation of the assembly of Figure 8a in an extended position with the screen deployed.
Turning to Figure 1, there is shown a diagrammatical representation of an assembly of one embodiment of the present invention, generally indicated as 2. The assembly 2 is shown mounted to a fixed structure at a first fixed pivot 4 and a second fixed pivot 6. The fixed pivots 4, 6 are spaced apart and are fixed in relation to one another. In the embodiment shown, the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6 is arranged vertically, with the first fixed pivot 4 above the second fixed pivot 6. However, the assembly 2 may have other orientations. In particular, the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6 may be arranged vertically with the second fixed pivot 6 above the first fixed pivot 4. Other orientations are also possible, such as with the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6 arranged other than vertically.
The fixed pivots 4, 6 are provided in a component or structure, which can be considered to be fixed and with movement of the components of the assembly 2 being relative to this component or structure. For the purposes of illustration only, the fixed pivots 4, 6 are shown in Figure 1 provided on a fixed component 3.
A first arm 8 is pivotally connected at a first position at one end of the first arm to the first fixed pivot 4. A second arm 10 is pivotally connected at a first position on the second arm at one end to the second fixed pivot 6. A third arm 12 is connected at a first position at one end of the third arm by a pivot connection 14 at a second position at the second end of the second arm 10. The third arm 12 has a point A thereon that moves in a substantially straight line perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6, as the assembly 2 moves between the extended position and its retracted position.
A fourth arm 16 is connected at one end by a pivot connection 18 at a second position at the second end of the first arm 8. The second end of the 10 fourth arm 16 is connected by a pivot connection 20 to the third arm 12 spaced from the pivot connection 14.
A connecting arm 22 is connected at one end to the pivot connection 18 on the first arm 8, such that the connecting arm 22 is pivotably connected to both the first arm 8 and the fourth arm 16 The second end of the connecting arm 22 is connected by a pivot connection 24 to the second arm 10. The pivot connection 24 is disposed on the second arm 10 between the fixed pivot 6 and the pivot connection 14.
The pivot connections may be formed by any suitable means, for example by pins extending through holes in one or both of the arms being pivotally joined.
In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the lengths of the first arm 8, the second arm 10 and the third arm 12 are equal.
In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the distance between the fixed pivot 6 and the pivot connection 24 on the second arm 10 is equal to the length of the connecting arm 22, that is the distance between the pivot connection 24 and the pivot connection 18.
Similarly, the length of the connecting arm 22, that is the distance between the pivot connection 24 and the pivot connection 18, is equal to the length of the fourth arm 16, that is the distance between the pivot connection 18 and the pivot connection 20.
Similarly, the length of the fourth arm 16, that is the distance between the pivot connection 18 and the pivot connection 20, is equal to the distance between the pivot connection 20 and the point A on the third arm 12.
As is shown in Figure 1, in the extended position of the assembly 2, the fourth arm 16 and the connecting arm 22 both extend along a line extending perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6.
Turning now to Figures 2a to 2d, there is shown a sequence of representations of the assembly of Figure 1 in positions between a retracted position, shown in Figure 2a, and a partially extended position shown in Figure 2d. The components of the assembly of Figures 2a to 2d have been identified using the same reference numerals as used in relation to Figure 1 and discussed above.
Referring to Figure 2a, the assembly 2 is shown in a retracted position. The arms of the assembly are formed to lie within one another when in the retracted position of Figure 2a, in particular with the arms having appropriate flat, 'L-shaped and U-shaped forms at portions along their lengths. In this way, the assembly 2 occupies the minimum amount of space when in the retracted position.
The assembly 2 is shown in Figure 2b in a first partially extended position, with the third arm 12 having moved away from the fixed pivots 4, 6.
As can be seen in Figures 2b to 2d, the movement of the components of the assembly is all to one side of the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. In the movement from the position of Figure 2a to the position of Figure 2b, the point A at the end of the third arm 12 is following a substantially straight line.
Figure 2c shows the assembly 2 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 12 moved further away from the fixed pivots 4, 6. Again, point A on the third arm 12 is tracing a substantially straight line from its position in the retracted position of Figure 2a.
Similarly, Figure 2d shows the assembly 2 in a third partially extended position, with the third arm 12 still further from the fixed pivots 4, 6 and the point A on the third arm 12 still following a straight line path.
Continued movement of the assembly 2 from the partially extended position shown in Figure 2d results in the components of the assembly taking up the extended position shown in Figure 1.
Turning to Figure 3, there is shown an assembly of a second embodiment of the present invention. The assembly, generally indicated as 102, has the same general configuration as the assembly 2 of Figure 1. Components of the assembly of Figure 3 that are common to the assembly of Figure 1 are indicated using the same reference numerals and are as discussed above. The differences between the assembly of Figure 3 and the assembly of Figure 1 are as follows: In the assembly of the embodiment of Figure 3, in the extended position shown, the fourth arm 16 extends from the first arm 8 to the pivotable connection 20 with the third arm 12 and further beyond the third arm 12 in the distal direction, that is away from the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6.
A support arm 130 is connected by a pivotable connection 132 at one end of the support arm to the fourth arm 16 at the end of the fourth arm.
The second end of the support arm 130 is pivotably connected to a component 140, represented by a dotted line in Figure 3. The component 140 is further pivotably connected to the third arm 12 at the point A on the third arm.
As will be seen from Figure 3, in the extended position, the component 140 lies along a line extending perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6.
Turning now to Figures 4a to 4d, there is shown a sequence of representations of the assembly of Figure 3 in positions between a partially retracted position, shown in Figure 4a, and a partially extended position shown in Figure 4d. The components of the assembly of Figures 4a to 4d have been identified using the same reference numerals as used in relation to Figure 3 and discussed above.
Referring to Figure 4a, the assembly 102 is shown in a partially retracted position. The arms of the assembly are formed to lie within one another when in the retracted position, in particular with the arms having appropriate flat, L'-shaped and 'U-shaped forms at portions along their lengths. In this way, the assembly 102 occupies the minimum amount of space when in the retracted position.
In the position shown in Figure 4a, the assembly 102 has been moved out of the retracted position, with the component 140 moved in the distal direction away from the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. As well as being displaced relative to the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6, the component 140 is also rotating out of a position where the component extends along a line parallel to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6.
The assembly 102 is shown in Figure 4b in a first partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the support arm 130 having moved away from the line joining the fixed pivots 4, 6. As can be seen in Figures 4b to 4d, the movement of the components of the assembly is all to one side of the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. In the movement from the position of Figure 4a to the position of Figure 4b, the point A at the end of the third arm 12 is following a substantially straight line.
Figure 4c shows the assembly 102 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 12 moved further away from the line joining the fixed pivots 4, 6. Again, point A on the third arm 12 is tracing a substantially straight line from its position in the retracted position of Figure 4a.
Similarly, Figure 4d shows the assembly 102 in a third partially extended position, with the third arm 12 still further from the line joining the fixed pivots 4, 6 and the point A on the third arm 12 still following a straight line path.
Continued movement of the assembly 102 from the partially extended position shown in Figure 4d results in the components of the assembly taking up the extended position shown in Figure 3. In particular, the component 140 is moved fully away from the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6 and is rotated through an angle of 90°.
Turning to Figure 5, there is shown a further embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly, generally indicated as 202, has the same general configuration as the assembly 2 of Figure 1.
Components of the assembly of Figure 5 that are common to the assembly of Figure 1 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above. The differences between the assembly of Figure 5 and the assembly of Figure 1 are as follows: The assembly 202 of Figure 5 comprises a fifth arm 204. The fifth arm 204 is pivotably connected at one end to the pivotable connection 18 between the first arm 8, the fourth arm 16 and the connecting arm 22. The fifth arm 204 has a point B thereon that moves in a substantially straight line perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6, as the assembly 202 moves between the extended position and its retracted position, in an analogous manner to the movement of the point A on the third arm 12, described above.
The third arm 12 and the fifth arm 204 of the assembly 202 may be connected to a component or structure to be moved relative to the first and second fixed pivots. In particular, a component or structure can be pivotably connected to the points A and B on the third arm 12 and the fifth arm 204. In this way, the component or structure can be moved in a substantially straight line extending perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. For the purposes of illustration only, the points A and B in the assembly 202 are shown in Figure 5 to be pivotably connected to a moveable component 206.
The moveable component 206 may be an arm extending between the 30 third and fifth arms 12, 204, for example connected to the points A and B on the third and fifth arms 12, 204.
The moveable component 206 may provide the first and second fixed pivots for another assembly, for example an assembly of the kind described above and shown in the accompanying figures, which assembly would function in an analogous manner to that described herein.
Figures 6a to 6d show the assembly 202 of Figure 5 in a plurality of positions between a retracted position, shown in Figure 6a, and a partially extended position shown in Figure 6d.
Referring to Figure 6a, the assembly 202 is shown in a retracted position. The arms of the assembly are formed to lie within one another when in the retracted position of Figure 6a, in particular with the arms having appropriate flat, L'-shaped and 'U-shaped forms at portions along their lengths. In this way, the assembly 202 occupies the minimum amount of space when in the retracted position.
The assembly 202 is shown in Figure 6b in a first partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fifth arm 204 having moved away from the line joining the fixed pivots 4, 6. As can be seen in Figures 6b to 6d, the movement of the components of the assembly is all to one side of the line joining the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. In the movement from the position of Figure 6a to the position of Figure 6b, the point A at the end of the third arm 12 and the point B on the fifth arm 304 are both following parallel, substantially straight lines.
Figure 6c shows the assembly 202 in a second partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fifth arm 204 moved further away from the line joining the fixed pivots 4, 6. Again, the point A on the third arm 12 and the point B on the fifth arm 204 are both tracing parallel, substantially straight lines from their positions in the retracted position of Figure 6a.
Similarly, Figure 6d shows the assembly 202 in a third partially extended position, with the third arm 12 and the fifth arm 204 still further from the line joining the fixed pivots 4, 6 and the point A on the third arm 12 and the point B on the fifth arm 204 each still following a straight line path.
Continued movement of the assembly 202 from the partially extended position shown in Figure 6d results in the components of the assembly taking up the extended position shown in Figure 5.
Turning to Figure 7, there is shown a further embodiment of the assembly of the present invention. The assembly, generally indicated as 302, has the same general configuration as the assembly 2 of Figure 1. Components of the assembly of Figure 7 that are common to the assembly of Figure 1 are indicated using the same references and are as discussed above. The differences between the assembly of Figure 7 and the assembly of Figure 1 are as follows: In the assembly of the embodiment of Figure 7, in the extended position shown, the connecting arm 22 extends from the pivotable connection 18 with the first arm 8 to the pivotable connection 24 with the second arm 10 and further beyond the second arm 10 to the component 3 providing the first and second fixed pivots 4, 6. A locking assembly 304 is provided to lock the proximal end of the connecting arm 22 with the component 3 in the extended position. In the embodiment shown, the locking assembly 304 comprises a first locking member 304a mounted on the component 3. A second locking member 304b is mounted on the distal end of the connecting arm 22. In the extended position shown in the figure, the second locking member 304b contacts the first locking member 304a, which acts as a stop, preventing movement of the assembly 302 beyond the extended position shown. The first and second locking members 304a, 304b may comprise components of a lock to secure the locking members together, preferably releasably.
Turning to Figures 8a to 8f, there is shown a representation of an assembly of a further embodiment of the present invention in a range of positions. The assembly, generally indicated as 402, is shown in a fully retracted position in Figure 8a, a series of partially extended positions in Figures 8b to 8e and an extended or deployed position in Figure 8f.
The assembly 402 comprises a fixed housing 404. The housing 404 is shown arranged horizontally with an open side 406 facing downwards. It is to 15 be understood that the assembly 402 can be employed with the housing 404 arranged in other orientations, for example vertically.
A component 410 is supported by two spaced apart assemblies 412a and 412b. Each assembly 412a, 412b has the configuration shown in Figure 3 and Figures 4a to 4d and described above. The component 410 is pivotally connected to the point A on the third arm 12 of each assembly 412a, 412b and to the support arm 130 of each assembly 412a, 412b.
Each assembly 412a, 412b is provided with first and second fixed pivots 4, 6 within the housing 404.
The first arms 8 of the two assemblies 412a and 412b are connected by a frame 414. A second, similar frame 416 connects the third arms 12 of the two assemblies 412a and 412b. The frames 414, 416 provide the assembly 402 with rigidity.
In the position shown in Figure 8a, the assemblies 412a, 412b are in the retracted position and lie together with the component 410 within the housing 404. In this position, the component 410 extends horizontally across the opening 406 of the housing 404, as shown in the figure.
Figure 8b shows the assembly 402 in a first, partially extended or deployed position. The assemblies 412a, 412b are partially extended away from the housing 404. The component 410 is spaced from the housing 404 and is rotated relative to the housing 404 and its position in Figure 8a.
Figure 8c shows the assembly 402 in a further partially extended position. Similarly, Figures 8d and 8e show the assembly 402 in still further partially extended positions. As can be seen, as the assemblies 412a, 412b extend, the component 410 is moved away from the housing 404 and further rotated relative to the housing 404.
Figures 8a to 8e show the pattern of movement of the component 410 as the assembly 402 is moved from the retracted position to the extended position. Further movement of the assembly from the position shown in Figure Be results in the assembly 402 taking up the extended position shown in Figure 8f, with the component 410 fully deployed. It is to be noted that in the extended position shown in Figure 8f, the component is displaced below the housing, as viewed in the figures, and rotated through 90° relative to the housing 404 and the position of the component 410 in the retracted position shown in Figure 8a.
The component 410 is returned to a stowed position following the reverse pattern of movement from Figure 8f to Figure 8a.
The assembly 402 of Figures 8a to 8f is particularly suitable for storing and deploying a screen, such as a television screen, a video screen, a monitor or the like.

Claims (30)

  1. CLAIMS1. An assembly for converting motion, the assembly being moveable between a retracted position and an extended position, the assembly 5 comprising: a first arm rotatable at a first position on the first arm about a first fixed pivot; a second arm rotatable at a first position on the second arm about a second fixed pivot, the second fixed pivot spaced apart from the first fixed pivot; a third arm pivotably connected at a first position on the third arm to the second arm at a second position on the second arm, the second position spaced apart from the first position on the second arm; a fourth arm pivotably connected at a first position on the fourth arm to a second position on the first arm spaced apart from the first position and pivotably connected at a second position on the fourth arm, spaced apart from the first position on the fourth arm, to the third arm at a second position on the third arm, spaced apart from the first position on the third arm; and a connecting arm extending between the first arm and the second arm, the connecting arm pivotably connected at a first position on the connecting arm to the second position on the first arm and pivotably connected at a second position on the connecting arm to a third position on the second arm disposed between the first and second positions on the second arm; wherein the third arm comprises a point on the third arm, the said point on the third arm spaced from the first position on the third arm and located such that the second position on the third arm lies between the said point and the first position, movement of the third arm between the retracted position and the extended position causing the said point to move in a substantially straight line extending perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots.
  2. 2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the arms are arranged to be accommodated adjacent one another or within one another when in the retracted position.
  3. 3. The assembly according to either of claims 1 or 2, wherein drive is applied to one or both the first and second arms, resulting in motion of the third arm.
  4. 4. The assembly according to either of claims 1 or 2, wherein drive is applied to the third arm, resulting in motion of the first and second arms.
  5. 5. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first position on the first arm is at or adjacent an end of the first arm and/or the second position on the first arm is at or adjacent an end of the first arm.
  6. 6. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first position on the second arm is at or adjacent an end of the second arm and/or the second position on the second arm is at or adjacent an end of the second arm.
  7. 7. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first position on the third arm is at or adjacent an end of the third arm.
  8. 8. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the ratio of the length of the first arm to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is from 0.5 to 2.0 and/or the ratio of the length of the second arm to the distance between the first and second fixed pivots is from 0.5 to 2.0.
  9. 9. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein the length of the first arm is no greater than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots and/or the length of the second arm is no greater than the distance between the first and second fixed pivots.
  10. 10. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the length of the first and second arms is substantially the same.
  11. 11. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the length of the third arm is no greater than the length of the first and/or the second arms.
  12. 12. The assembly according to claim 11, wherein the lengths of the first, second and third arms are substantially the same.
  13. 13. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the pivotable connection between the fourth arm and the first arm is at or adjacent an end of the fourth arm.
  14. 14. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the pivotable connection between the connecting arm and the first arm is at or adjacent an end of the connecting arm and/or the pivotable connection between the connecting arm and the second arm is at or adjacent an end of the connecting arm.
  15. 15. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the distance between the first position and the third position on the second arm is equal to the distance between the first position and the second positon on the connecting arm.
  16. 16. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the distance between the first position and the second position on the connecting arm is equal to the distance between the first position and the second positon on the fourth arm.
  17. 17. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the distance between the first position and the second position on the fourth arm is equal to the distance between the second position and the said point on the third arm.
  18. 18. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the distance between the first position and the third position on the second arm is equal to the distance between the second position and the said point on the third arm.
  19. 19. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein, when in the extended position, the connecting arm extends perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots.
  20. 20. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein, when in the extended position, the fourth arm extends perpendicular to the line joining the first and second fixed pivots.
  21. 21. The assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the fourth arm extends distally of the third arm, the assembly further comprising a support arm pivotably connected at a first position on the support arm to a third position on the fourth arm, the third position on the fourth arm being spaced from the first and second positions on the fourth arm and beyond the second position in the direction from the first position to the second position on the fourth arm.
  22. 22. The assembly according to claim 22, wherein the first position on the support arm is at or adjacent an end of the support arm
  23. 23. The assembly according to either of claims 22 or 23, wherein the third position on the fourth arm is at or adjacent an end of the fourth arm.
  24. 24. The assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising a fifth arm, the fifth arm pivotably connected at a first position on the fifth arm to the first arm at a third position on the first arm.
  25. 25. The assembly according to claim 25, wherein the first position on the fifth arm is at or adjacent an end of the fifth arm.
  26. 26. The assembly according to either of claims 25 or 26, wherein the third position on the first arm coincides with the second position, such that the fifth arm is also pivotably connected to the fourth arm.
  27. 27. An assembly comprising a first component and a second component, the first component being arranged for movement with respect to the second component, wherein an assembly for converting motion according to any preceding claim is provided between the first component and the second component, operation of the assembly providing movement of the first component with respect to the second component.
  28. 28. The assembly according to claim 27 wherein the first component is 20 moveable in a liner motion with respect to the second component between a retracted position and an extended position.
  29. 29. The assembly according to claim 27 wherein the first component is moveable with respect to the second component in a pattern that displaces 25 and rotates the first component with respect to the second component.
  30. 30. The assembly according to claim 30, wherein the first component is a screen.
GB1818748.4A 2018-11-16 2018-11-16 Apparatus for converting motion Active GB2579066B (en)

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Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN108691361A (en) * 2018-06-28 2018-10-23 智房科技股份有限公司 Floor folding device and Collapsible house

Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN108691361A (en) * 2018-06-28 2018-10-23 智房科技股份有限公司 Floor folding device and Collapsible house

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GB201818748D0 (en) 2019-01-02

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