WO2023038521A1

WO2023038521A1 - Adjustment mechanism for adjusting two adjustment members relative to each other

Info

Publication number: WO2023038521A1
Application number: PCT/NL2022/050505
Authority: WO
Inventors: Teunis Hendrik HEIKOOP; Stefan Fritz Brouwer
Original assignee: Mci (Mirror Controls International) Netherlands B.V.
Priority date: 2021-09-08
Filing date: 2022-09-07
Publication date: 2023-03-16
Also published as: NL2029152B1; NL2029152B9

Abstract

The disclosure relates to an adjustment mechanism comprising a first stepped crown gear which includes a first crown ring of crown gear teeth that extends around the first axis at a first crown ring radius from the first axis, and a second crown ring of crown gear teeth that is axially spaced from the first ring of crown gear teeth and that extends around the first axis at a second crown ring radius from the first axis, different from the first crown ring radius. The mechanism further comprises a first stepped pinion gear which includes a first pinion ring of pinion gear teeth that extends around the second axis at a first pinion ring radius from the second axis, and a second pinion ring of pinion gear teeth that is axially spaced from the first pinion ring and that extends around the second axis at a second pinion ring radius from the second axis, different from the first pinion ring radius. The first crown ring is configured and arranged to mesh with the first pinion ring, and the second crown ring being configured and arranged to mesh with the second pinion ring.

Description

Title: Adjustment mechanism for adjusting two adjustment members relative to each other

FIELD

The invention relates to an adjustment mechanism, in particular for adjusting an orientation of an antenna dish or solar panel.

BACKGROUND

Various devices, such as for example antenna dishes and solar panels may require regular readjustment of a part of the device relative to a mounting structure. For example, an antenna dish, being arranged for receiving and/or transmitting radio signals, often needs to be aligned with a distant radio transceiver for optimal communication. In stationary situations, the antenna principally needs to be aligned only once upon installation. However, in non-stationary situations and frequently changing situations regular readjustment of the antenna dish orientation may be desired, for instance for tracking non-geostationary satellites. Similarly, the orientation solar panels can be regularly adjusted to track the sun. Also other adjustable devices may require regular readjustment, such as security camera’s, tracking sensors such as LIDAR- or heat tracking sensors, survey equipment as used in cartography, signal transmitters, interior mirrors for vehicles, etcetera.

Such regular readjustment places high demands on the adjustment mechanism.

SUMMARY

It is therefore an aim to provide a robust and accurate adjustment mechanism. It is furthermore an aim to provide a robust and accurate adjustment mechanism that is cost-effective and easy to mass-produce. Provided is mechanism for adjusting a first adjustment member relative to a second adjustment member. The mechanism is particular suitable for adjusting an orientation of an antenna dish or solar panel. The first adjustment member may be associated with a mounting structure, and may for example be kept stationary. The second adjustment member may be associated with a dish of an antenna dish, or a solar cell of a solar panel. The mechanism comprises at least two meshing gears having respectively a first axis and a second axis that are obliquely angled with respect to one another. The mechanism comprises a first stepped crown gear with a first axis. The first stepped crown gear is coupled to the first adjustment member. The first stepped crown gear includes a first crown ring of crown gear teeth that extends around the first axis at a first crown ring radius from the first axis, and at least a second crown ring of crown gear teeth that is axially spaced from the first ring of crown gear teeth and that extends around the first axis at a second crown ring radius from the first axis, different from the first crown ring radius. The mechanism further comprises a first stepped pinion gear having a second axis. The first stepped pinion gear is coupled to the second adjustment member. The first stepped pinion gear includes a first pinion ring of pinion gear teeth that extends around the second axis at a first pinion ring radius from the second axis, and a second pinion ring of pinion gear teeth that is axially spaced from the first pinion ring and that extends around the second axis at a second pinion ring radius from the second axis, different from the first pinion ring radius. The first crown ring is configured and arranged to mesh with the first pinion ring, and the second crown ring being configured and arranged to mesh with the second pinion ring.

Hence, torque can be transmitted between the first adjustment member and the second adjustment member, via the first stepped crown gear and first stepped pinion gear, enabling an adjustment of a relative orientation of the first and second adjustment members. The first adjustment member may include a first shaft which extends along the first axis. The first stepped crown gear may be mounted on the first shaft. The second adjustment member may include a second shaft which extends along the second axis. The first stepped pinion gear may be mounted on the second shaft.

It will be appreciated that a crown gear, or crown ring, also known as a face gear, or face ring, is a gear which has teeth that project substantially perpendicular to the face of the gear. Otherwise stated, the teeth of a crown gear project, at least substantially, in a direction parallel to an intended rotation axis of the crown gear. Here, the crown gear teeth of the first stepped crown gear project parallel to the first axis. The crown gear teeth of a crown gear may be substantially wedge-shaped in a radial direction, as well as in an axial direction, e.g. for meshing with an involute pinion gear. It will be appreciated that a module of the crown gear teeth of a crown gear, or crown ring, is constant, as opposed to a module of bevel gear teeth which have a variable module due to the conical shape of bevel gears.

Any of the crown rings as described herein may include an inner crown ring radius and an outer crown ring radius. The crown gear teeth of a crown ring generally extend between its inner and outer crown ring radius. A crown ring radius of a crown ring as described herein may be defined by any radius of the crown ring between its inner and outer radius, for example its crown mean radius.

For example, the first crown ring may include a first inner crown ring radius and a first outer crown ring radius. The second crown ring may include a second inner crown ring radius and a second outer crown ring radius. Optionally, the first inner crown ring radius coincides to the second outer crown ring radius. Optionally, the first inner crown ring radius differs from the second outer crown ring radius.

It will further be appreciated that a pinion gear, or pinion ring, is a gear which has teeth that project radially outward with respect to an intended rotation axis of the pinion gear, i.e. substantially transverse to the intended rotation axis of the pinion gear. Here, the pinion gear teeth project, at least substantially, transverse to the second axis. For each pinion ring, a module of the pinion gear teeth may be constant. A pinion gear teeth module of the first pinion ring may be equal to a crown gear teeth module of the first crown gear. Also, pinion gear teeth module of the second pinion ring may be equal to a crown gear teeth module of the second crown gear. A pinion ring radius as described herein may be defined by a pitch radius of the pinion ring. The pinion ring radius may also be defined by a root radius or tip radius of the pinion ring. A pinion ring may have a constant pinion ring radius over an axial extend the pinion ring.

A cooperating crown gear and pinion gear can be used to provide an angle transmission in which torque is transmitted between two mutually inclined axis, e.g. the first and second axis. The first axis and the second axis may particularly be, but do not have to, at least approximately, perpendicular to one another. The first axis and the second axis may, but do not have to, particularly intersect each other.

The meshing first stepped crown gear, which includes at least two concentric crown rings of crown gear teeth which crown rings extend around the first axis at a different radius and are axially spaced from one another, and first stepped pinion gear, which includes at least two concentric pinion rings of pinion gear teeth which pinion rings extend around the second axis at a different radius and are axially spaced from one another, allows for axial movement of the first stepped pinion gear along the second axis, relative to the first stepped crown gear, while maintaining smooth torque transmission. Hence, the meshing stepped gears are particularly tolerant to misalignments and dimensional inaccuracies, particularly compared to bevel gears which have a continuously conical shape. Torque transmitting properties of the meshing stepped gears are yet comparable to bevel gears of similar dimension. This tolerance of the meshing stepped gears enables easy and cost-effective manufacture, particularly for of mass-production.

It will be appreciated that a stepped gear as described herein, e.g. the first stepped crown gear, and the first stepped pinion gear, have a finite number of steps, i.e. a finite number of gear rings. It will also be appreciated that the first stepped crown gear may have more than two crown rings, e.g. a third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and/or seventh crown ring. It will also be appreciated that the first stepped pinion gear may have more than two pinion rings, e.g. a third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and/or seventh pinion ring. The number of rings of the stepped gears may be equal, but it will be appreciated that the stepped gears may have a mutually different number of rings.

The rings of the respective stepped gears may be axially arranged in geometric order, so as to create a stepped cone shaped gear. Hence, the stepped gear is stepped in both an axial and a radial direction.

The first crown ring and the second crown ring may have an equal number of teeth. Additionally or alternatively, the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring may have an equal number of teeth. A tooth size of the first crown ring and the second crown ring may be adapted accordingly, e.g. a size, e.g. a module, of the crown gear teeth of the first crown ring could differ from the crown gear teeth of the second crown ring. Similarly, a tooth size of the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring may be adapted accordingly, e.g. a size, e.g. a module, of the crown gear teeth of the first crown ring could differ from the crown gear teeth of the second crown ring, which allows for an smooth transmission of torque.

The first crown ring and the second crown ring may have a different number of teeth, and/or the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring may have a different number of teeth.

A smooth torque transmission between the first stepped crown gear and the first stepped pinion gear can be obtained, when the first crown ring and the second crown ring may be rotationally staggered with respect to one another about the first axis, the first pinion ring of and the second pinion ring may be correspondingly rotationally staggered with respect to one another about the second axis. The crown gear teeth of the first crown ring may be shifted in a circumferential direction of the first stepped crown gear, relatively to crown gear teeth of the second crown ring, such that the crown gear teeth of both rings do not radially align. The pinion gear teeth of the first pinion ring may be shifted in a circumferential direction of the stepped pinion gear relative to the pinion gear teeth of the second pinion ring, such that the pinion gear teeth of both rings do not axially align. This provides a evenly distributed meshing between the stepped gears, for a smooth torque transmission.

The first crown ring may be rigidly fixed to the second crown ring. Also, the first pinion ring may be rigidly fixed to the second pinion ring. The first stepped crown gear and/or the first stepped pinion gear may for example be manufactured in one piece, e.g. monolithic. The first stepped crown gear and/or the first stepped pinion gear may for instance be injection molded and/or powder sintered.

The first crown ring may also be movable relative to the second crown ring. The first pinion ring may also be movable relative to the second pinion ring. Hence, play between the meshing stepped gears may for instance be reduced or eliminated. The first crown ring may for example be movably coupled to the second crown ring, e.g. via a resilient coupling. Also, the first pinion ring may be movably coupled to the second pinion ring, e.g. via a resilient coupling.

Optionally, the first crown ring is movable relative to the second crown ring in axial direction along the first axis, and/or the first pinion ring is movable relative to the second pinion ring in axial direction along the second axis. The first crown ring may be movable relative to the second crown ring only in the axial direction along the first axis and not e.g. in the rotational direction about the first axis. Similarly, the first pinion ring may be movable relative to the second pinion ring only in axial direction along the second axis and not e.g. in rotational direction about the second axis.

Optionally, the first crown ring is movable relative to the second crown ring in rotational direction about the first axis, and/or the first pinion ring is movable relative to the second pinion ring in rotational direction about the second axis. Hence, play between the meshing gears can be reduced or eliminated in rotational direction. The first crown ring may be movable relative to the second crown ring only in the rotational direction about the first axis and not e.g. in the axial direction along the first axis. Similarly, the first pinion ring may be movable relative to the second pinion ring only in rotational direction about the second axis and not e.g. in axial direction along the second axis.

Optionally, a resilient coupling is provided between the first crown ring and the second crown ring, and/or a resilient coupling is between the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring.

For example, the mechanism may comprise an axially resilient coupling between the first crown ring and the second crown ring arranged for allowing relative axial motion between the first crown ring and the second crown ring in axial direction along the first axis. The axially resilient coupling element may bias the first crown ring and the second crown ring in opposite axial directions along the first axis. Similarly, the mechanism may comprise an axially resilient coupling between the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring arranged for allowing relative axial motion between the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring in axial direction along the second axis. The axially resilient coupling element may bias the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring in opposite axial directions along the second axis.

For example, the mechanism may comprise a rotationally resilient coupling between the first crown ring and the second crown ring, and/or a rotationally resilient coupling between the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring. The first crown ring may for instance be rotationally coupled to the second crown ring via a rotationally resilient coupling element arranged for allowing relative rotation between the first crown ring and the second crown ring about the first axis. The rotationally resilient coupling element may bias the first crown ring and the second crown ring in opposite rotation directions about the first axis. Similarly, the first pinion ring may be rotationally coupled to the second pinion ring via a rotationally resilient coupling element arranged for allowing relative rotation between the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring about the second axis. The rotationally resilient coupling element may bias the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring in opposite rotation directions about the second axis.

Hence, play between the meshing gears can be reduced or eliminated, which allows for accurate control over the adjustment of the antenna dish.

The first crown ring and the second crown ring may be slidingly connected. The first crown ring and the second crown ring may particularly be frictionally slidingly connected. Also, the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring may be slidingly connected, e.g. frictionally slidingly connected. For example, between the first crown ring and the second crown ring and/or between the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring, a rotational friction element can be provided. A rotational frictional connection may be established, arranged for dampening a relative rotation between the first crown ring and the second crown ring, and/or between the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring. Friction between the any of the rings may for instance be induced mechanically such as by using contact surface friction, (electro)magnetically, inductively, hydraulically such by as using viscous fluids, etc..

The first crown ring and the first pinion ring may have a mutually different number of teeth. Also, the second crown ring and the second pinion ring may have a mutually different number of teeth. Hence, a speed- increasing or speed-decreasing transmission ratio can be established between the first stepped crown gear and the first stepped pinion gear.

Any transmission ratio may be established between the first stepped pinion gear and the first stepped crown gear. Hereto, the transmission ratios between meshing gear rings may be adapted.

In an example, a first transmission ratio between the first crown ring and the first pinion ring is equal to a second transmission ratio between the second crown ring and the second pinion ring. Alternatively formulated, a first ratio of the number of teeth of the first crown ring and the number of teeth of the first pinion ring may be equal to a second ratio of the number of teeth of the second crown ring and the second pinion ring.

It may be desirable to obtain a transmission ratio between the stepped gears of 1.0, or close to 1.0. For example, the first crown ring and the first pinion ring, as well as the second crown ring and the second pinion ring, may differ from each other by only one, two or three teeth.

The first transmission ratio between the first crown ring and the first pinion ring need not be identical to the second transmission ratio between the second crown ring and the second pinion ring. In an example, the first transmission ratio between the first crown ring and first pinion ring differs from the second transmission ratio between the second crown ring and the second pinion ring. Alternatively formulated, the first ratio of the number of teeth of the first crown ring and the number of teeth of the first pinion ring may be different to the second ratio of the number of teeth of the second crown ring and the second pinion ring.

The first crown ring and the second crown ring may be rotatable relative to each other about the first axis, wherein the first crown ring and the second crown ring are frictionally connected. Additionally or alternatively, the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring may be rotatable relative to each other about the second axis, wherein the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring are frictionally connected, e.g. similar as the first and second crown rings, for dampening a relative rotation between the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring. For example, only one of the first and second pinion rings, and/or only one of the first and second crown rings, may be driven by an actuator.

Optionally, in a meshing position, the first stepped crown gear and the first stepped pinion gear are biased against each other in axial direction along the first axis and/or in axial direction along the second axis. For example, the first stepped crown gear and the first stepped pinion gear may be biased towards each other either in a direction along the first axis or in a direction along the second axis. Also, the first axis and the second axis may intersect an intersection point, wherein the first stepped crown gear and the first stepped pinion gear are biased towards the intersection point.

Optionally, the first stepped crown gear and the first stepped pinion gear are releasably meshed with each other, wherein the mechanism is arranged to disconnect the first stepped crown gear from the first stepped pinion gear when an external torque on the first stepped crown gear or the first stepped pinion gear exceeds a predetermined threshold torque.

The mechanism may further comprise a second stepped crown gear that is rotatable about the first axis, the second stepped crown gear having a at least one crown ring of crown gear teeth that extends around the first axis at the first crown ring radius from the first axis for meshing with the first pinion ring or at the second crown ring radius from the first axis for meshing with the second pinion ring. For example, the mechanism may comprise a second stepped crown gear coupled to the first adjustment member. The second stepped crown gear may have at least two further crown rings of crown gear teeth, e.g. a first further crown ring of crown gear teeth that extends around the first axis at the first crown ring radius from the first axis, and a second further crown ring of crown gear teeth that is axially spaced from the first further crown ring and that extends around the first axis at the second crown ring radius from the first axis. The first further crown ring may be configured and arranged to mesh with the first pinion ring and the second further crown ring may be configured and arranged to mesh with the second pinion ring. The second stepped crown gear may be rotatable relative to the first stepped crown gear about the first axis. The first and second stepped crown gears may particularly be arranged on a common shaft on opposite sides of an intersecting point of the first and second axis.

The mechanism may further comprise a second stepped pinion gear that is rotatable about an axis that is perpendicular to the first axis, e.g. the second axis, the second stepped pinion gear having a at least one pinion ring of pinion gear teeth that extends around the second axis at the first pinion ring radius from the second axis for meshing with the first crown ring or at the second pinion ring radius from the second axis for meshing with the second crown ring. The second stepped pinion gear may have at least two further pinion rings of pinion gear teeth, e.g. a first further pinion ring of pinion gear teeth that extends around the second axis at the first pinion ring radius from the second axis, and a second further pinion ring of pinion gear teeth that is axially spaced from the first further pinion ring and that extends around the second axis at the second pinion ring radius from the second axis. The first further pinion ring may be configured and arranged to mesh with the first crown ring and the second further pinion ring may be configured and arranged to mesh with the second crown ring. The second stepped pinion gear may be rotatable relative to the first stepped pinion gear about the second axis. The first and second stepped pinion gears may particularly be arranged on a common shaft on opposite sides of an intersecting point of the first and second axis. The second stepped pinion gear may be rotatable about the second axis. The first and second stepped pinion gears may be mounted on a common shaft that extends along the second axis, wherein the second pinion gear may be rotatable relative to the first pinion gear. The second stepped crown gear may be configured and arranged to mesh with the second stepped pinion gear. More specific, the first further crown ring may be configured and arranged to mesh with the first further pinion ring, and the second further crown ring may be configured and arranged to mesh with the second further pinion ring.

An axial distance, along the first axis, between the first stepped crown gear and the second stepped crown gear may be adjustable. The first stepped crown gear and the second stepped crown gear may for example be axially biased towards each other in a direction along the first axis, e.g. by means of a spring.

Also, an axial distance, along the second axis, between the first stepped pinion gear and the second stepped pinion gear may be adjustable. For example, the first stepped pinion gear and the second stepped pinion gear may be axially biased towards each other in a direction along the second axis, e.g. by means of a spring.

The mechanism may comprise an actuator, e.g. connected to the first and/or second stepped crown gear, for driving at least one of the first stepped crown gear and the first stepped pinion gear in rotation about respectively the first and second axis.

The mechanism may comprise a first actuator connected to the first stepped crown ring for directly driving the first stepped pinion gear in rotation about the first axis, and a second actuator connected to the second stepped crown ring for directly driving the second stepped pinion gear in rotation about the second axis. The first and second actuator can for example be an electric motor. The electric motor may have an output shaft that directly couples to respectively the first stepped pinion gear or the second pinion gear.

A particular embodiment of an adjustment mechanism for adjusting a first adjustment member relative to a second adjustment member, may comprise a first shaft extending along a first axis and associated with the first adjustment member, and a second shaft extending along a second axis associated with the second adjustment member, wherein the mechanism comprises a first stepped crown gear and a second stepped crown gear, each associated with a first shaft, the first and second stepped crown gears each comprising a first crown ring of crown gear teeth that extends around the first axis at a first crown ring radius from the first axis, and a second crown ring of crown gear teeth that is axially spaced from the first crown ring and that extends around the first axis at a second crown ring radius from the first axis, different from the first crown ring radius; and a first stepped pinion gear and a second stepped pinion gear, each associated with the second axis, the first and second stepped pinion gears each comprising a first pinion ring of pinion gear teeth that extends around the second axis at a first pinion ring radius from the second axis, and a second pinion ring of pinion gear teeth that is axially spaced from the first pinion ring and that extends around the second axis at a second pinion ring radius from the second axis, different from the first pinion ring radius; the first crown rings being configured and arranged to mesh with the first pinion rings, and the second crown rings being configured and arranged to mesh with the second pinion rings. The mechanism may further comprise a first actuator arranged for driving to the first stepped pinion gear about the second axis or the first stepped crown gear about the first axis, and a second actuator arranged for driving the second stepped pinion gear about the second axis or the second stepped crown gear about the first axis. The first actuator and the second actuator may be coupled to a common housing, e.g. to (a housing of) the second adjustment member. The second adjustment member, which is associated with the second axis, can be rotated about the first axis, and relative to the first adjustment member, by driving, e.g. with the first and second actuators, the first stepped pinion gear and the second pinion gear in opposite rotation direction about the second axis. The second adjustment member can be rotated about the second axis, and relative to the first adjustment member, by driving, e.g. with the first and second actuators, the first stepped pinion gear and the second stepped pinion gear in the same rotation direction about the second axis.

It will be appreciated that any one or more of the above features can be combined. It will also be appreciated that any features described in view of the first stepped pinion gear equally apply to the second stepped pinion gear, and that any features described in view of the first stepped crown gear equally apply to the second stepped crown gear. It will also be appreciated that the mechanism as described herein, may be used for various applications, including but not limited to adjusting an antenna dish or adjusting an orientation of a solar panel. The adjustment mechanism can for example also be used for adjusting a vision unit relative to a vehicle, security camera’s, tracking sensors such as LIDAR- or heat tracking sensors, survey equipment as used in cartography, signal transmitters, interior mirrors for vehicles, etc..

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

The invention will further be elucidated on the basis of exemplary embodiments which are represented in a drawing. The exemplary embodiments are given by way of non-limitative illustration. It is noted that the figures are only schematic representations of embodiments of the invention that are given by way of non-limiting example.

In the drawing:

Figures 1A-1C show a schematic example of a stepped pinion gear and a stepped crown gear;

Figures 2A-2C show a schematic example of a stepped crown gear; Figures 3A-3C show a schematic example of a stepped pinion gear; Figures 4A-4B show a schematic example of an adjustment mechanism;

Figure 5 shows an example of an adjustable antenna dish. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figures 1A-1C show respective views of a first stepped crown gear 10 cooperating with a first stepped pinion gear 20. The first stepped crown gear 10 is associated with a first axis Al, and the first stepped pinion gear 20 is associated with a second axis A2. In this example, the first axis Al and the second axis A2 intersect one another at an intersection point P.

The first stepped crown gear 10 comprises at least two concentrically arranged crown gear rings of crown gear teeth, wherein each crown ring is axially spaced from one another, in a direction of the first axis Al and has a different diameter. More particular, the first stepped crown gear 10 comprises a first crown ring 11 of crown gear teeth and a second crown ring 12 of crown gear teeth. The crown gear teeth of each of the crown rings 11, 12 project in a direction parallel to the first axis Al. The first crown ring 11 and the second crown ring 12 are concentrically arranged with respect to the first axis Al. The first crown ring 11 is larger than the second crown ring 12, i.e. the first crown ring 11 and the second crown ring 12 have a different diameter, and thus extend around the first axis Al at a different radius from the first axis Al. The first crown ring 11 particularly extends around the first axis Al at a first crown ring radius, and a second crown ring 12 extends around the first axis Al at a second crown ring radius, smaller than the first crown ring radius. The first and second crown rings 11, 12 are further axially spaced from each other, hence creating a stepped crown gear. In this example, the first stepped crown gear 10 also comprises a third crown ring 13 of crown gear teeth. The third crown ring 13 is, in this example, smaller than the second crown ring 12. The crown rings 11, 12, 13 are particularly arranged in axial direction in geometric order.

The first stepped pinion gear 20 comprises a corresponding number of pinion gear rings, form meshing, respectively, with the crown gear rings of the first stepped crown gear. The first stepped pinion gear 20 accordingly comprises at least two concentrically arranged pinion gear rings of pinion gear teeth, wherein each pinion ring is axially spaced from one another, in a direction of the second axis Al and has a different diameter. More particular, the first stepped pinion gear 20 comprises a first pinion ring 21 of pinion gear teeth and a second pinion ring 22 of pinion gear teeth. The pinion gear teeth of each of the pinion rings 21, 22 project radially outward from with respect to the second axis A2. The first pinion ring 21 and the second pinion ring 22 are concentrically arranged with respect to the second axis A2. The first pinion ring 21 is larger than the second pinion ring 22, i.e. the first pinion ring 21 and the second pinion ring 22 have a different diameter, and thus extend around the second axis A2 at a different radius from the second axis A2. The first pinion ring 21 particularly extends around the second axis A2 at a first pinion ring radius, and a second pinion ring 22 extends around the second axis A2 at a second pinion ring radius, smaller than the first pinion ring radius. The first and second pinion rings 21, 22 are further axially spaced from each other, hence creating a stepped pinion gear. In this example, the first stepped pinion gear 20 also comprises a third pinion ring 23 of crown gear teeth. The third pinion ring 23 is, in this example, smaller than the second pinion ring 22. The pinion rings 21, 22, 23 are particularly arranged in axial direction in geometric order.

The first pinion ring 21 meshes with the first crown ring 11. The second pinion ring 22 meshes with the second crown ring 12. The third pinion ring 23 meshes with the third crown ring 13.

In the example of figures 1A-1C, the number of teeth of the crown rings differs from one another. Here, the first crown ring 11 has more teeth than the second crown ring 12, and the second crown ring 12 has more teeth than the third crown ring 13. Correspondingly, the first pinion ring 21 which meshes with the first crown ring 11 has more teeth than the second pinion ring 23 which meshes with the second crown ring 12.

A transmission ratio between the first crown ring 11 and the first pinion ring 21 may be equal to a transmission ratio between the second crown ring 12 and the second pinion ring 22, but this need not be. A transmission ratio between the first crown ring 11 and the first pinion ring 21 may for example differ from a transmission ratio between the second crown ring 12 and the second pinion ring 22 in case the first and second crown rings 11, 12 are rotationally decouplable from each other such that the first and second crown rings 11, 12 are rotatable relative to one another. A friction element may for example be arranged between the crown rings and/or between pinion rings.

Figures 2A-2C show an example of a stepped crown gear 10, which, in this example, comprises five crown rings of crown gear teeth, namely a first 11, second 12, third 13, fourth 14, and fifth 15 crown ring. The stepped crown gear 10 is, here, coupled to a base member for mounting to a base structure. In this example, the crown rings 11-15 have an equal number of crown gear teeth. Also, the crown rings 11-15 of crown gear teeth are rotationally staggered with respect to each other about the first axis, so that the crown gear teeth of the different crown rings 11-15 do not radially align. This provides a smooth torque transmission between the first stepped crown gear 10 and the first stepped pinion gear 20. The first stepped crown gear is coupled to a first adjustment member 80; in this example a stationary mounting structure. Figure 2C shows a close-up view of the crown gear teeth, particularly of the first crown ring 11. The crown gear teeth are, in this example, particularly configured for meshing with straight-cut pinion gear teeth having an involute gearing profile.

Figures 3A-3C show an example of a stepped pinion gear 20, for cooperating with the stepped crown gear 10 as shown in figures 2A-2C. Hence, in this example, the stepped pinion gear 20 comprises five pinion rings of pinion gear teeth, namely a first 21, second 22, third 23, fourth 24, and fifth 25 pinion ring. The stepped pinion gear 20 is, here, coupled to a an actuator, here an electric motor, for driving the stepped pinion gear 20 in rotation about the second axis A2. In this example, the pinion rings 21-25 also have an equal number of pinion gear teeth. The pinion rings 21-25 of pinion gear teeth are rotationally staggered with respect to each other, so that the pinion gear teeth of the different pinion rings 21-25 do not axially align. The first stepped pinion gear is coupled to a second adjustment member 90; in this example a movable member that is movable relative to a mounting structure. Figure 3C shows a close-up view of the pinion gear teeth, particularly of the first pinion ring 21. The pinion gear teeth have, in this example, an involute gearing profile and are configured for meshing with a respective crown ring of the stepped crown gear 10 as shown in figures 2A-2C.

Figures 4A-4B show a schematic example of an adjustment mechanism, comprising a first stepped crown gear 10 as shown in figures 2A-2C, meshing with a first stepped pinion gear 20 as shown in figures 3A- 3C.

The adjustment mechanism further comprises a second stepped crown gear 30, which is associated with the first axis Al and rotatably coupled to the first adjustment member 80. The second stepped crown gear 30 is positioned opposite the first stepped crown gear 10, opposite the intersection point P. The second stepped crown gear also meshes with the first stepped pinion gear 20. The first and second crown gears 10, 30 are essentially mirrored with respect to each other, with a mirror plane at the intersection point P extending transverse to the first axis Al. The second stepped crown gear 30 may be similar to the first crown gear 10. It will be appreciated that any features described herein in view of the first stepped crown gear 10, can apply equally to the second stepped crown gear 30. Like the first stepped crown gear 10, the second stepped crown gear 30 has, in this example, five concentric crown rings of different sizes, which are axially shifted with respect to each other. It will be appreciated that the second crown ring may have more or less than five crown rings. The mechanism further comprises a second stepped pinion gear 40, associated with the second axis A2 and mounted to the second adjustment member 90. The second stepped pinion gear 40 is arranged opposite the first stepped pinion gear 20, opposite the intersection point P. The second stepped pinion gear 40 meshes with the first crown gear 10. The second stepped pinion gear 40 also meshes with the second crown gear 30. The first and second pinion gears 20, 40 are essentially mirrored with respect to each other, with a mirror plane at the intersection point P extending transverse to the second axis A2. The second stepped pinion gear 40 may be similar to the first stepped pinion gear 20. It will be appreciated that any features described herein in view of the first stepped pinion gear 20, can apply equally to the second stepped pinion gear 40. Like the first stepped pinion gear 20, the second stepped pinion gear 40 has, in this example, five concentric pinion rings of different sizes, which are axially shifted with respect to each other. It will be appreciated that the second pinion ring may have more or less than five pinion rings.

As also shown in the example of figure 5, a first actuator 100, here an electric motor, can be coupled to the first stepped pinion gear 20 for driving the first stepped pinion gear 20 about the second axis A2. A second actuator 200, here also an electric motor that is independently controllable from the first electric motor, can be coupled to the second stepped pinion gear 40 for driving the second stepped pinion gear 40 about the second axis A2, independent of the first stepped pinion gear 20. The first and second actuators 100, 200 are, as shown in the example of figure 5, coupled to the second adjustment member 80, here associated with the dish of the antenna dish. The first stepped crown gear 10 and the second stepped crown gear 300 are coupled to the first adjustment member 80, here a, e.g. stationary, base structure of the antenna dish. The second stepped crown gear 30 can be rotatable about the first axis, relative to the first stepped crown gear 10. The dish can be moved relative to the base structure using the first 100 and/or second actuator 200. In this example, the dish can be rotated relative to the base structure about the first axis Al, by driving the first stepped pinion gear 10 and the second stepped pinion gear in opposite rotation direction about the second axis A2. The dish can be rotated relative to the base structure about the second axis A2, by driving the first stepped pinion gear 10 and the second stepped pinion gear in equal rotation direction about the second axis A2. Hence, a orientation of the dish can be adjusted relative to the base structure about the first and second axes Al, A2, using two actuators 100, 200.

Herein, the invention is described with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the invention. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made therein, without departing from the essence of the invention. For the purpose of clarity and a concise description features are described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however, alternative embodiments having combinations of all or some of the features described in these separate embodiments are also envisaged.

In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word ‘comprising’ does not exclude the presence of other features or steps than those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the words ‘a’ and ‘an’ shall not be construed as limited to ‘only one’, but instead are used to mean ‘at least one’, and do not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to an advantage.

Claims

1. Adjustment mechanism for adjusting a first adjustment member relative to a second adjustment member, the mechanism comprising two meshing gears having respectively a first axis and a second axis that are obliquely angled with respect to one another, and which include a first stepped crown gear associated with the first axis and comprising a first crown ring of crown gear teeth that extends around the first axis at a first crown ring radius from the first axis, and a second crown ring of crown gear teeth that is axially spaced from the first crown ring and that extends around the first axis at a second crown ring radius from the first axis, different from the first crown ring radius; and a first stepped pinion gear associated with the second axis and comprising a first pinion ring of pinion gear teeth that extends around the second axis at a first pinion ring radius from the second axis, and a second pinion ring of pinion gear teeth that is axially spaced from the first pinion ring and that extends around the second axis at a second pinion ring radius from the second axis, different from the first pinion ring radius; the first crown ring being configured and arranged to mesh with the first pinion ring, and the second crown ring being configured and arranged to mesh with the second pinion ring.

2. Mechanism of claim 1, wherein the first crown ring and the second crown ring have an equal number of teeth, and/or wherein the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring have an equal number of teeth.

3. Mechanism of claim 1, wherein the first crown ring and the second crown ring have a different number of teeth, and/or wherein the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring have a different number of teeth.

4. Mechanism any preceding claim, wherein the first crown ring and the second crown ring are rotationally staggered with respect to one another about the first axis, and/or wherein the first pinion ring of and the second pinion ring are correspondingly rotationally staggered with respect to one another about the second axis.

5. Mechanism of any preceding claim, wherein the first crown ring is rigidly fixed to the second crown ring, and/or wherein the first pinion ring is rigidly fixed to the second pinion ring.

6. Mechanism of any of claims 1-4 claim, wherein the first crown ring is movable relative to the second crown ring, and/or wherein the first pinion ring is movable relative to the second pinion ring.

7. Mechanism of claim 6, wherein the first crown ring is movable relative to the second crown ring in axial direction along the first axis, and/or wherein the first pinion ring is movable relative to the second pinion ring in axial direction along the second axis.

8. Mechanism of claim 6 or 7, wherein the first crown ring is movable relative to the second crown ring in rotational direction about the first axis, and/or wherein the first pinion ring is movable relative to the second pinion ring in rotational direction about the second axis.

9. Mechanism of any of claims 6-8, comprising a resilient coupling between the first crown ring and the second crown ring, and/or comprising a resilient coupling between the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring.

10. Mechanism of claim 9, wherein the resilient coupling is arranged for allowing a relative axial movement between the first crown ring and the second crown ring along the first axis, and/or wherein the resilient coupling is arranged for providing a relative axial movement between the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring along the second axis.

11. Mechanism of claim 9 or 10, wherein the resilient coupling is arranged for allowing a relative rotational movement between the first crown ring and the second crown ring about the first axis, and/or wherein the resilient coupling is arranged for allowing a relative rotational movement between the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring about the second axis.

12. Mechanism of at least claim 6, wherein the first crown ring and the second crown ring are slidingly connected in rotational direction about the first axis; and/or wherein the first pinion ring and the second pinion ring are slidingly connected in rotational direction about the second axis.

13. Mechanism of claim any preceding claim, wherein the first crown ring and the first pinion ring have a mutually different number of teeth, and/or wherein the second crown ring and the second pinion ring have a mutually different number of teeth.

14. Mechanism of any preceding claim, wherein a first transmission ratio between the first crown ring and the first pinion ring equals a second transmission ratio between the second crown ring and the second pinion ring.

15. Mechanism of at least claim 6, wherein the first transmission ratio between the first crown ring and the first pinion ring differs from a second transmission ratio between the second crown ring and the second pinion ring.

16. Mechanism of any preceding claim, wherein, in a meshing position, the first stepped crown gear and the first stepped pinion gear are biased against each other in axial direction along the first axis and/or in axial direction along the second axis.

17. Mechanism of claim 16, wherein the first stepped crown gear and the first stepped pinion gear are releasably meshed with each other, wherein the mechanism is arranged to disconnect the first stepped crown gear from the first stepped pinion gear when an external torque on the first stepped crown gear or the first stepped pinion gear exceeds a predetermined threshold torque.

18. Mechanism of any preceding claim, wherein the first axis and the second axis are, at least substantially, perpendicular to one another.

19. Mechanism of any preceding claim, wherein the first stepped crown gear and/or the first stepped pinion gear are injection molded and/or powder sintered.

20. Mechanism of any preceding claim, comprising a second stepped crown gear that is rotatable about the first axis, the second stepped crown gear having a at least one crown ring of crown gear teeth that extends around the first axis at the first crown ring radius from the first axis for meshing with the first pinion ring or at the second crown ring radius from the first axis for meshing with the second pinion ring.

21. Mechanism of any preceding claim, comprising a second stepped pinion gear that is rotatable about an axis that is perpendicular to the first axis, the second stepped pinion gear having a at least one pinion ring of pinion gear teeth that extends around the second axis at the first pinion ring radius from the second axis for meshing with the first crown ring or at the second pinion ring radius from the second axis for meshing with the second crown ring.

22. Mechanism of claim 21, wherein the second stepped pinion gear is rotatable about the second axis.

23. Mechanism of any of claims 20-21 and claim 19, wherein the second stepped crown gear is configured and arranged to mesh with the second stepped pinion gear.

24. Mechanism of claim 23, wherein an axial distance, along the first axis, between the first stepped crown gear and the second stepped crown gear is adjustable.

25. Mechanism of claim 24, wherein the first stepped crown gear and the second stepped crown gear are axially biased towards each other in a direction along the first axis.

26. Mechanism of claim 21, wherein an axial distance, along the second axis, between the first stepped pinion gear and the second stepped pinion gear is adjustable.

27. Mechanism of claim 26, wherein the first stepped pinion gear and the second stepped pinion gear are axially biased towards each other in a direction along the second axis.

28. Mechanism of any preceding claim, comprising an actuator for driving at least one of the first stepped crown gear and the first stepped pinion gear in rotation about their respective first and second axis.

29. Mechanism of at least claim 28, comprising a first actuator for driving the first stepped crown gear in rotation about the first axis, and a second actuator for driving the second stepped crown gear in rotation about the first axis.

30. Mechanism of at least claim 28, comprising a first actuator for driving the first stepped pinion gear in rotation about the second axis, and a second actuator for driving the second stepped pinion gear in rotation about the second axis.

31. Mechanism of claim 29 or 30, wherein the first actuator and the second actuator are coupled to a common housing.