Abstract: TITLE: “A MOTION PLATFORM SYSTEM WITH A SAFETY MECHANISM” 7. ABSTRACT The motion platform system (100) described herein comprises a moving platform (1) and a base (2), connected by six extensible legs (3) with prismatic joints (4). The base (2) provides support for the system’s weight and payload, serving as a stationary reference for displacement calculations. Electrical linear actuators (6) with ball screw mechanisms control the extension of the legs (3), powered by electrical motors (7). Universal or spherical joints (5) at both ends of the extensible legs (3) allow rotational freedom, enabling motion across six degrees of freedom (DOF). Guide rods (9) ensure linear motion, preventing rotational misalignment. Integrated safety mechanisms, including slope angles (12), stoppers (13), and limit switches (14), enhance reliability under dynamic loads. The system’s modular construction, precision, and safety features make it suitable for applications in aerospace, automotive, military training, and virtual reality simulations. The figure associated with abstract is Fig. 1.
DESC:4. DESCRIPTION
Technical Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to the field of mechanical engineering and more particularly relates to mechanical motion platform system that simulates real motion environment for training purpose.
Background of the Invention
Motion platforms are essential mechanical systems used to simulate real-world motion across various industries, including aerospace, automotive, entertainment, and training. These systems enable users to replicate and analyze dynamic motion environments, providing invaluable insights into performance, safety, and usability. However, despite their importance, conventional motion platforms face significant challenges. One primary issue is the risk of congestion and mechanical stress when actuators operate in conflicting directions. This results in instability, reduced system reliability, and potential safety hazards for users. Furthermore, many existing platforms struggle to achieve precise motion synchronization, especially in applications requiring real-time adaptability to complex motion profiles.
Another critical problem is the lack of robust safety mechanisms. Conventional motion platforms often expose users to abrupt, unintended movements or collisions with surrounding objects. These risks are particularly pronounced in high-stakes environments, such as flight simulation and automotive testing, where the accuracy and safety of motion reproduction are paramount. The absence of effective safeguards has limited the broader adoption of motion platforms in scenarios demanding both precision and reliability.
Over the years, various designs and mechanisms have been proposed to address the limitations of motion platforms. One of the earliest and most well-known designs is the Stewart platform, which employs six extensible legs connected between a base and a moving platform. This parallel mechanism allows motion across six degrees of freedom (DOF): three translational (heave, surge, sway) and three rotational (roll, pitch, yaw). While the Stewart platform has served as a foundation for motion simulation systems, its basic design lacks the advanced safety and control features required for modern applications.
Several patents have attempted to improve upon the Stewart platform’s capabilities. For instance, TWI554985B describes a motion simulation system incorporating profile generators and motion controllers to enhance operational safety. Similarly, US9536446 discloses a system that uses planetary gearboxes and servo motors for precise motion delivery. However, these solutions are not without drawbacks. Many rely on complex control algorithms that increase computational demands and cost. Additionally, some mechanisms involve intricate mechanical assemblies, making them difficult to maintain and prone to wear over time.
Other approaches have focused on integrating hydraulic actuators for motion control. While hydraulics offer high power density and smooth motion, they come with their own set of disadvantages, including the risk of fluid leakage, high maintenance requirements, and environmental concerns. Similarly, systems using conventional ball screw actuators often struggle with backlash, limiting their ability to provide consistent and precise motion.
Many platforms experience mechanical instability due to conflicting actuator movements or inadequate structural designs. This can lead to excessive wear, unintentional vibrations, and a shortened lifespan of critical components. The absence of integrated safety mechanisms in conventional systems increases the likelihood of user injuries during operation. This is particularly concerning in scenarios involving rapid or unpredictable motion changes. Existing platforms often require extensive calibration and maintenance to ensure accurate performance. This results in higher operational costs and downtime, reducing their feasibility for large-scale deployment in industries such as aerospace and defence. Most prior art designs lack the modularity needed to adapt to diverse applications. This restricts their usability in evolving technological landscapes, such as virtual reality or advanced robotics.
The inventors recognized a dire need for a motion platform system that addresses these limitations while providing enhanced precision, safety, and adaptability. Specifically, they identified the following requirements for an improved system. The platform must include features such as limit switches, stoppers, and locking mechanisms to prevent collisions, mitigate risks of actuator congestion, and ensure user safety during operation. The platform should be constructed using durable materials with anti-corrosive properties to ensure long-term performance. Additionally, it should incorporate energy-efficient actuators to reduce power consumption and environmental impact.
Brief Description of the Invention
The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure and it does not identify key/critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The primary object of the invention is to develop a motion platform system capable of simulating real-world motion across six degrees of freedom (DOF) with enhanced precision and reliability. This includes providing smooth and synchronized motion for applications such as training, testing, and research.
Another object of the invention is to incorporate robust safety mechanisms to mitigate risks associated with actuator congestion, mechanical stress, and abrupt or unintended movements. The safety features are designed to ensure user safety and operational reliability during both normal and high-stakes scenarios.
An additional object of the invention is to simplify the design and assembly of the motion platform system, ensuring modularity for ease of installation, maintenance, and scalability. This flexibility enables the platform to adapt to diverse payloads and application environments.
A further object is to integrate advanced control mechanisms, including electrical linear actuators with ball screw mechanisms, to achieve superior motion accuracy and reduce backlash. This ensures precise control over the platform’s orientation and position.
Lastly, the invention aims to make the motion platform system energy-efficient and durable by utilizing high-quality materials with anti-corrosive properties and incorporating energy-saving actuators to minimize environmental impact.
The present invention relates to a motion platform system with integrated safety mechanisms, designed to simulate motion across six degrees of freedom (DOF). The system includes a moving platform and a base connected by six extensible legs equipped with prismatic joints. The base serves as a stationary reference, supporting the system’s weight and payload.
The invention features electrical linear actuators driven by electrical motors, utilizing ball screw mechanisms for precise motion control. The extensible legs can be individually adjusted electronically, allowing fine control over the platform’s position and orientation. Universal or spherical joints at both ends of the legs enable rotational freedom, enhancing the platform’s adaptability to complex motion profiles.
A critical aspect of the invention is the integration of safety mechanisms. Slope angles, stoppers with locking mechanisms, and limit switches are strategically incorporated to prevent collisions, congestion, and mechanical stress. These safety features ensure smooth and controlled operation, even under dynamic loads.
The platform’s modular construction facilitates easy assembly, disassembly, and maintenance. The base is designed as a hexagonal structure with three plates connected by metal strips, providing stability and balanced force distribution. The system employs guide rods within the actuators to maintain linear motion and prevent rotational misalignment in the prismatic joints.
One of the primary advantages of the invention is its enhanced safety features, which address the limitations of existing motion platforms. By incorporating slope angles, stoppers, and limit switches, the system reduces the risk of mechanical stress, congestion, and collisions, providing a secure environment for users.
The invention offers superior motion precision, facilitated by the use of electrical linear actuators with ball screw mechanisms. This minimizes backlash and ensures smooth, accurate motion across all six degrees of freedom. The precise control over actuator lengths allows for seamless adaptation to various motion profiles.
Another advantage is the system’s modular and scalable design. The ease of assembly and disassembly simplifies maintenance, reduces downtime, and enables the platform to adapt to a wide range of applications. This flexibility makes it suitable for diverse industries, from aerospace and automotive to entertainment and robotics.
The durability and energy efficiency of the platform further enhance its practicality. High-quality materials with anti-corrosive properties ensure long-term reliability, while energy-efficient actuators minimize power consumption and environmental impact.
The motion platform system has extensive applications across multiple industries. In aerospace, it can be used for flight simulators, enabling pilots to train under realistic motion conditions. The system’s precision and safety mechanisms are critical for replicating the dynamic behavior of aircraft.
In the automotive sector, the platform can simulate vehicle dynamics, including acceleration, braking, and cornering. This allows engineers to test and refine vehicle designs, ensuring safety and performance.
The entertainment industry can benefit from the platform’s ability to create immersive virtual reality experiences. By simulating realistic motion, the system enhances the user experience in theme parks, gaming, and cinematic applications.
In research and development, the platform provides a controlled environment for studying the behaviour of mechanical systems under dynamic conditions. Its precision and adaptability make it a valuable tool for prototyping and testing.
The system is also ideal for industrial applications, such as robotics and material handling. Its ability to adapt to varying payloads and motion requirements ensures reliable performance in automated processes.
Further objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be readily apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
Brief Description of the Drawings
The above and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from a consideration of the following detailed description presented in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates a motion platform system with a safety mechanism in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
Fig 2A-2B illustrates actuator mechanism/actuators involved in the said motion platform system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
Fig 3 illustrates various configurations adaptable by the said motion platform system in accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
It is appreciated that not all aspects and structures of the present invention are visible in a single drawing, and as such multiple views of the invention are presented so as to clearly show the structures of the invention.
Detailed Description of the Invention
It is important to note that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the specific construction details or component arrangements described herein or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of various embodiments and can be implemented in different ways. Additionally, the terminology used in this description is for clarification purposes and should not be interpreted as limiting.
The terms 'including', 'comprising', or 'having', and variations thereof, are intended to encompass both the listed items and their equivalents, as well as any additional items. Similarly, terms like 'first', 'second', 'third', and similar terms used herein are for distinguishing one element from another and do not imply any specific order or importance.
The present invention discloses a motion platform system equipped with integrated safety mechanisms, designed to simulate motion across six degrees of freedom (DOF) with precision and reliability. This detailed description provides exemplary embodiments to support the claimed text, demonstrating the inventive aspects and functional characteristics of the invention.
The motion platform system comprises a moving platform and a base, connected by six extensible legs equipped with prismatic joints. The base serves as a stationary reference, supporting the system’s weight and payload. The hexagonal design of the base, formed by connecting three plates with metal strips, provides structural stability and balanced force distribution. Each extensible leg is powered by an electrical linear actuator incorporating a ball screw mechanism for precise motion control. The actuators are driven by electrical motors, which enable fine electronic adjustments to the lengths of the extensible legs.
At both ends of each extensible leg, universal or spherical joints are employed to allow rotational freedom. This design enables the platform to achieve precise adjustments in position and orientation. Guide rods within the linear actuators ensure linear motion through the prismatic joints while preventing rotational misalignment, enhancing stability during operation. The combination of these features facilitates smooth and accurate motion simulation across all six degrees of freedom, including translational movements (heave, surge, sway) and rotational movements (roll, pitch, yaw).
One of the key inventive aspects of the system is its integrated safety mechanisms. Slope angles and stoppers with locking mechanisms are strategically positioned at the top and bottom of each extensible leg to prevent congestion, locking, and uncontrolled movements. Limit switches are incorporated to monitor actuator positions and halt operation during overload or potential collision scenarios. These safety features work collectively to ensure secure and controlled motion, even under dynamic loads and high-stress conditions.
The modular construction of the motion platform system simplifies its assembly, disassembly, and maintenance. The actuators are designed for easy installation and can be rapidly replaced or serviced without extensive downtime. The system’s adaptability allows it to accommodate a wide range of payloads and motion profiles, making it suitable for diverse applications such as flight simulation, automotive testing, and virtual reality experiences.
In an exemplary embodiment, the system is configured to support six distinct operational configurations, each tailored to specific functional and operational requirements. For example, the 6-6 regular hexagonal configuration is fully symmetric, ensuring uniform force distribution and balanced motion. This configuration is ideal for applications requiring high precision, such as advanced flight simulators. Another configuration, the 3-3 minimal symmetric manipulator, reduces complexity while maintaining essential motion capabilities, making it suitable for cost-sensitive applications.
The extensible legs are designed to work in unison, maintaining the payload in the required position by providing synchronized linear displacements. Each leg’s extension and retraction are electronically controlled, allowing users to fine-tune the platform’s movements with high precision. The system’s electrical linear actuators are equipped with ball screw mechanisms that minimize backlash, ensuring smooth motion and accurate reproduction of complex motion profiles.
The modularity of the system also extends to its control architecture. The electrical motors and actuators are integrated with advanced control systems capable of real-time monitoring and adjustment. This ensures that the platform operates efficiently, even during rapid or complex motion changes. The control system is further enhanced by the inclusion of limit switches, which act as fail-safe mechanisms to prevent overextension or collision of the extensible legs.
Durability and energy efficiency are core design considerations for the motion platform system. The use of high-quality materials with anti-corrosive coatings ensures long-term performance in diverse environmental conditions. The energy-efficient actuators and motors minimize power consumption, reducing the system’s environmental impact and operational costs.
In another exemplary embodiment, the system incorporates adjustable slope angles and stoppers to accommodate varying payloads and operational scenarios. For example, when simulating the dynamic behaviour of an aircraft, the platform’s safety mechanisms prevent abrupt movements that could compromise user safety or system stability. Similarly, in automotive testing applications, the platform’s ability to replicate acceleration, braking, and cornering dynamics provides engineers with valuable insights into vehicle performance.
The system’s adaptability and precision make it an ideal tool for research and development across multiple industries. In robotics, the motion platform can simulate complex motion paths, aiding in the testing and refinement of robotic systems. In virtual reality, the platform’s ability to replicate real-world motion enhances user immersion, creating more realistic and engaging experiences.
The versatility of the motion platform system is further demonstrated in its ability to operate under diverse load conditions. Whether supporting lightweight test equipment or heavy payloads for industrial applications, the system maintains consistent performance. The adjustable components, including the extensible legs (3), slope angles, and stoppers, allow users to tailor the platform’s behaviour to specific requirements, ensuring optimal performance and user satisfaction.
The invention is further explained with reference to the accompanying figures, which illustrate the key components and functionality of the motion platform system (100). These figures, when viewed collectively, provide a comprehensive understanding of the invention's structure, operation, and advantages.
Fig 1 depicts the overall structure of the motion platform system (100), comprising a moving platform (1) and a base (2). The base (2) serves as the stationary foundation, supporting the system's weight and payload. It is constructed as a hexagonal framework, formed by three plates connected by metal strips, ensuring structural stability and balanced force distribution. The moving platform (1) is connected to the base (2) via six extensible legs (3), which are responsible for facilitating motion across six degrees of freedom (DOF). The extensible legs (3) are equipped with prismatic joints (4) to allow linear motion and precise positioning of the platform (1).
Fig’s 2A and 2B illustrate the actuator mechanism, highlighting the electrical linear actuators (6) that power the extensible legs (3). Each actuator (6) incorporates a ball screw mechanism, driven by electrical motors (7). This design ensures smooth and precise control of the extensible legs (3), allowing for fine adjustments to their length. The universal or spherical joints (5) positioned at both ends of the extensible legs (3) provide rotational freedom, enabling the platform (1) to achieve complex motion profiles. Guide rods (9) within the actuators (6) ensure linear motion through the prismatic joints (4), preventing rotational misalignment and enhancing stability during operation.
The integrated safety mechanisms are depicted in Fig’s 2A and 2B, showing the placement of slope angles (12) and stoppers (13) with locking mechanisms at the top and bottom of each extensible leg (3). These features prevent congestion and locking of the legs during operation, ensuring controlled and secure motion. Limit switches (14) are strategically positioned along the extensible legs (3) to monitor actuator positions and halt motion in the event of overload or potential collisions. For example, during high-stakes operations such as flight simulation, these safety mechanisms ensure user safety by mitigating risks of abrupt movements or mechanical stress.
Fig 3 demonstrates various operational configurations of the motion platform system (100), showcasing its adaptability to different applications. The 6-6 regular hexagonal configuration provides symmetric force distribution, ideal for high-precision applications like flight simulators. The 3-3 minimal symmetric manipulator configuration reduces complexity while retaining essential motion capabilities, making it suitable for budget-conscious applications. These configurations exemplify the system’s versatility in addressing diverse operational requirements.
The system’s ability to simulate motion across six degrees of freedom is also illustrated in Fig 3. For instance, heave motion is achieved through the synchronized extension and retraction of all extensible legs (3), enabling vertical movement of the platform (1). Similarly, surge and sway motions involve linear displacements along the longitudinal and lateral axes, respectively. Rotational movements, including roll, pitch, and yaw, are facilitated by varying the lengths of the extensible legs (3) in a coordinated manner, allowing the platform (1) to tilt or rotate as needed.
Examples
In a flight simulation application, the system can replicate the dynamic behavior of an aircraft during take-off, turbulence, and landing. For instance, by adjusting the extensible legs (3) to simulate pitch and roll motions, the platform (1) provides pilots with a realistic training environment. The integrated safety mechanisms, such as limit switches (14) and stoppers (13), prevent abrupt movements, ensuring the safety and comfort of the trainees.
In automotive testing, the system can simulate vehicle dynamics such as acceleration, braking, and cornering. By utilizing the guide rods (9) and ball screw mechanisms in the actuators (6), engineers can achieve precise motion control, allowing them to analyze and refine vehicle designs. The modular construction of the system enables easy adaptation to different payloads, making it suitable for testing various vehicle types.
In virtual reality applications, the platform (1) enhances user immersion by replicating real-world motion. For example, during a roller coaster simulation, the system’s ability to execute synchronized heave, pitch, and roll motions creates a lifelike experience. The safety mechanisms ensure that the platform operates smoothly, even during rapid motion changes, enhancing the overall user experience.
The motion platform system (100) represents a significant advancement in motion simulation technology, as depicted in Figures 1, 2A, 2B, and 3. Its innovative design integrates precise motion control, robust safety mechanisms, and modular construction, making it a versatile solution for diverse applications. By referring to the figures, it is evident that the invention addresses the limitations of conventional platforms, providing a reliable, safe, and user-friendly system for motion simulation across multiple industries.
Technical Precision
The invention incorporates slope angles (12), stoppers (13), and limit switches (14) as key safety features, strategically integrated into the system. The slope angles (12) are designed to distribute dynamic loads evenly across the extensible legs (3), reducing stress concentration and minimizing the risk of mechanical failure during rapid or unpredictable motions. The stoppers (13), equipped with locking mechanisms, serve as fail-safe components to halt the motion of the extensible legs (3) when they reach their operational limits. This prevents overextension and ensures stability, particularly under high dynamic loads. The limit switches (14) monitor the actuator positions in real time, providing immediate feedback to the control system. In the event of potential collisions or overload conditions, the limit switches (14) automatically halt the platform’s motion, safeguarding both the system and its operators.
The ball screw mechanism used in the actuators (6) offers significant advantages over alternative mechanisms such as rack and pinion systems. Ball screw mechanisms provide higher precision and efficiency by converting rotary motion into linear motion with minimal backlash. This ensures smooth and accurate motion, essential for applications requiring high fidelity, such as flight simulation and automotive testing. Additionally, the ball screw mechanism exhibits lower friction losses and longer operational life, making it a more reliable and cost-effective choice for motion control.
Use-Cases
The motion platform system (100) finds extensive applications across various industries. In military training, the system provides realistic simulations for vehicle and aircraft operations. For example, the platform can replicate the rough terrain experienced during off-road military vehicle maneuvers, enabling personnel to train under lifelike conditions. The safety mechanisms, such as limit switches (14) and stoppers (13), mitigate risks associated with abrupt movements, ensuring the safety of trainees during intensive sessions.
In automotive testing, the platform simulates vehicle dynamics, including acceleration, braking, and cornering. Engineers can use the system to analyze vehicle performance under controlled conditions, refining designs for improved safety and efficiency. For instance, during a crash simulation, the safety features prevent abrupt platform movements, ensuring accurate data collection and reducing the risk of equipment damage.
The platform is also ideal for virtual reality applications, where it enhances user immersion by replicating realistic motion. For example, during a virtual roller coaster simulation, the system’s ability to execute synchronized heave, pitch, and roll motions creates an engaging and lifelike experience. The integrated safety mechanisms ensure smooth operation, even during rapid motion transitions, enhancing user comfort and safety.
Comparative Analysis
Existing motion platform systems, such as the Stewart platform and its derivatives, offer basic six degrees of freedom (DOF) motion capabilities. However, these systems often lack modularity, robust safety features, and precise control mechanisms. For instance, traditional platforms rely on hydraulic actuators, which, while powerful, are prone to leakage, high maintenance requirements, and environmental concerns. In contrast, the present invention uses electrical linear actuators (6) with ball screw mechanisms, providing cleaner, more efficient, and reliable motion control.
The modular construction of the present invention sets it apart from conventional platforms. The ability to assemble, disassemble, and adapt the system for various applications enhances its versatility. Additionally, the integrated safety mechanisms, including slope angles (12), stoppers (13), and limit switches (14), address the critical shortcomings of prior art systems by ensuring secure and controlled operation, even under dynamic loads.
The described exemplary embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. Variations in the arrangement of the structure are possible falling within the scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within scope.
Testing Standards and Results
The motion platform system (100) has been rigorously tested to ensure compliance with international standards for performance, safety, and reliability. These tests were conducted under various simulated conditions to evaluate the system’s capabilities across its six degrees of freedom (DOF). The results demonstrate that the system meets or exceeds the requirements set by industry benchmarks for motion simulation platforms.
Performance Testing
Performance tests were conducted to evaluate the precision and responsiveness of the electrical linear actuators (6). Using a combination of mathematical modeling and real-world trials, the system achieved a positional accuracy within 0.01 mm across all axes. The ball screw mechanism in the actuators demonstrated minimal backlash, ensuring smooth and consistent motion even under varying loads. The system’s ability to replicate complex motion profiles, such as rapid acceleration and deceleration, was validated through dynamic response tests.
Safety Compliance
The integrated safety mechanisms, including slope angles (12), stoppers (13), and limit switches (14), were tested under simulated overload and collision scenarios. These mechanisms performed as intended, halting platform motion within milliseconds of detecting potential hazards. Tests conducted at maximum payload capacity confirmed the efficacy of the stoppers (13) in preventing overextension of the extensible legs (3). Additionally, the limit switches (14) provided accurate feedback to the control system, ensuring operational safety during high-stakes simulations.
Structural Integrity
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was employed to assess the structural integrity of the platform under dynamic loads. The hexagonal base (2) demonstrated exceptional stability, evenly distributing forces across its three plates and connecting strips. Stress and strain tests confirmed that the system can withstand payloads up to its rated maximum without deformation or failure. The guide rods (9) in the actuators (6) maintained alignment, preventing rotational misalignment during motion.
Environmental Testing
The platform was subjected to environmental testing to evaluate its performance under extreme conditions. Corrosion resistance tests confirmed the durability of the anti-corrosive coatings applied to the metal components. The electrical motors (7) and actuators (6) operated reliably within a temperature range of -20°C to 50°C, ensuring functionality in diverse climates. Vibration and shock tests validated the system’s robustness, with no observed degradation in performance.
Application-Specific Testing
In military training simulations, the platform successfully replicated rugged terrain and rapid manoeuvres without compromising safety or stability. Automotive testing scenarios demonstrated the system’s ability to simulate braking, acceleration, and cornering dynamics with high fidelity. Virtual reality trials highlighted the platform’s capacity to enhance user immersion through synchronized motion profiles, with no instances of mechanical failure or abrupt movements.
The testing results confirm that the motion platform system (100) is a reliable and versatile solution for motion simulation across various industries. Its compliance with international standards, coupled with its innovative safety features and robust construction, ensures that the system delivers exceptional performance in diverse applications. These results underscore the system’s potential to set a new benchmark for motion simulation technology.
,CLAIMS:5. CLAIMS
We claim:
1. A motion platform system (100) with a safety mechanism, comprising:
a moving platform (1) and a base (2), the base (2) and platform (1) being connected by six extensible legs (3) with prismatic joints (4), where the position and orientation of the base (2) are fixed;
the base (2) supporting the system's weight and payload and serving as a stationary reference for displacement calculations;
electrical linear actuators (6) designed for easy assembly and disassembly, incorporating a ball screw mechanism for motion control;
the extension of the legs (3) being powered by a plurality of electrical linear actuators (6) driven by electrical motors (7), with provision for individual electronic adjustment of actuator lengths;
characterized by:
the orientation and position of the platform (1) being adjustable by varying the lengths of the extensible legs (3), each equipped with universal or spherical joints (5) at both ends to allow rotational freedom;
guide rods (9) within the linear actuators (6) ensuring linear motion through the prismatic joint (4) while preventing rotation;
integrated safety mechanisms including slope angles (12), stoppers (13) with locking mechanisms positioned at the top and bottom of each leg (3), and a plurality of limit switches (14) configured to prevent congestion, ensure stability, and mitigate collision risks during operation.
2. The motion platform system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the base (2) comprises three plates connected by three strips of metal, forming a hexagonal structure for enhanced stability and distribution of forces.
3. The motion platform system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein six linear actuators (6) are mounted on the base (2) using universal joints to achieve precise displacements.
4. The motion platform system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electrical linear actuators (6) are configured to utilize power from electrical motors (7) mounted on a frame, converting it into linear motion using power screw joints (8).
5. The motion platform system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the guide rods (9) are configured to maintain alignment within the prismatic joint (4), thereby enhancing stability and reducing wear during motion.
6. The motion platform system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the safety mechanisms further include adjustable stoppers (13) and locking mechanisms to secure the platform during inactive states or emergency shutdowns.
7. The motion platform system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) supports six degrees of freedom (DOF), including translational motions (heave, surge, sway) and rotational motions (roll, pitch, yaw).
8. The motion platform system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuators (6) are designed for modular installation and rapid maintenance to reduce downtime in industrial and research applications.
9. The motion platform system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each slope angle (12) and stopper (13) is adjustable to accommodate varying payloads and motion profiles.
10. A method for manufacturing a motion platform system (100) with a safety mechanism as claimed in claim 1, comprising the steps of:
fabricating the base (2) by connecting three plates with three strips of metal to form a hexagonal structure, and ensuring structural integrity through welding and stress testing;
assembling six extensible legs (3) with prismatic joints (4), each equipped with universal or spherical joints (5) at both ends for rotational freedom;
installing electrical linear actuators (6) with integrated guide rods (9) to maintain linear motion and prevent rotation within the prismatic joint (4);
mounting electrical motors (7) onto a supporting frame and coupling them to the linear actuators (6) using ball screw mechanisms for precise motion control;
configuring slope angles (12) and stoppers (13) with locking mechanisms at the top and bottom of each leg (3), ensuring accurate alignment and safety during operation;
integrating a plurality of limit switches (14) to monitor actuator positions and halt motion during overload or potential collision scenarios;
conducting motion simulation and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to validate system stability and performance across six degrees of freedom (DOF);
assembling the moving platform (1) and securing it to the extensible legs (3) using universal joints (5);
performing system-level testing to verify compliance with operational specifications and safety standards, including collision prevention and motion accuracy tests.
6. DATE AND SIGNATURE
Dated this 22nd January 2025
Signature
Mr. Srinivas Maddipati
IN/PA 3124- In house Patent Agent
(For., Zen Technologies Limited)
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202441016070-PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION [07-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-07 |
| 2 | 202441016070-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [07-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-07 |
| 3 | 202441016070-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY [07-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-07 |
| 4 | 202441016070-FORM 1 [07-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-07 |
| 5 | 202441016070-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [07-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-07 |
| 6 | 202441016070-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [07-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-07 |
| 7 | 202441016070-DRAWINGS [07-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-07 |
| 8 | 202441016070-Proof of Right [23-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-23 |
| 9 | 202441016070-FORM-26 [23-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-23 |
| 10 | 202441016070-FORM 3 [23-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-23 |
| 11 | 202441016070-ENDORSEMENT BY INVENTORS [23-03-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-03-23 |
| 12 | 202441016070-DRAWING [22-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-22 |
| 13 | 202441016070-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [22-01-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-01-22 |
| 14 | 202441016070-FORM-9 [12-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-12 |
| 15 | 202441016070-FORM 18 [12-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-12 |
| 16 | 202441016070-MSME CERTIFICATE [28-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-28 |
| 17 | 202441016070-FORM28 [28-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-28 |
| 18 | 202441016070-FORM 18A [28-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-28 |