Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENT RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)

Title of Invention:
A DAMPENING APPARATUS

APPLICANT:
BHARAT FORGE LIMITED
An Indian entity having address as:
Mundhwa, Pune - 411036,
Maharashtra, India.

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND PRIORITY
[0001] The present application claims no priority from any of the patent application(s).
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a field of impact dampers. More specifically, the present specification relates to a dampening apparatus.
BACKGROUND
[0003] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art, which may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure that are described or claimed below. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that these statements in this background section are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art. Similarly, a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with the subject matter of the background section should not be assumed to have been previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the background section merely represents different approaches, which in and of themselves may also correspond to implementations of the claimed technology.
[0004] Dampening devices (or apparatuses) are sophisticated devices that are configured to mitigate the adverse effects of impact forces encountered in diverse applications. These devices play a pivotal role across industries such as automotive, aerospace, firearms, and industrial machineries by effectively managing the energy generated during impact events. Through the absorption, redirection, or dissipation of kinetic energy, dampening devices not only foster heightened safety measures but also elevate performance outcomes and augment user comfort. Also, dampening devices present a formidable means of regulating and diminishing impact forces. Their applications span vehicle suspension systems, heavy machineries mounts, shock absorbers, firearm recoil management, vibration isolation systems, and the like.
[0005] Currently used impact dampers employ hydraulics to mitigate impact forces. One such commonly used impact damper is the hydraulic impact damper system. Hydraulic impact dampers consist of a piston housed in a cylinder filled with a hydraulic fluid or gel. In circumstances characterized by unforeseen or expeditious displacement impact force is generated, the impact forces cause the piston to move backward against the resistance of the fluid. The fluid absorbs the energy generated by the impact and slows down the movement of the piston, thereby reducing the felt impact. However, they are not exempt from certain disadvantages or drawbacks.
[0006] Firstly, hydraulic impact dampers typically add weight and bulk to systems in which they are incorporated. The inclusion of the hydraulic cylinder, piston, and fluid can increase the overall size and make the system less manoeuvrable or less suitable for certain applications.
[0007] Secondly, they require more maintenance requirements. Hydraulic systems require regular maintenance, including fluid checks, potential fluid replacement, and ensuring proper sealing to prevent leakage. This additional maintenance can be time-consuming and add complexity to the system's upkeep.
[0008] Further, there is always the possibility of fluid leakage in such devices. Hydraulic impact dampers may be susceptible to fluid leakage over time, particularly with heavy use or in extreme environmental conditions. Fluid leaks can lead to decreased performance, inconsistency, or even failure of the damper system.
[0009] Furthermore, the use of such devices increases the cost of the system. Hydraulic impact dampers can be more expensive compared to other impact management systems. The additional components, materials, and engineering involved in hydraulic systems contribute to higher production costs.
[0010] Also, such devices possess limited customization options. Hydraulic dampers are often integrated into systems during the manufacturing process and may not be easily customizable or interchangeable. This limitation can restrict aftermarket modifications or adjustments to suit individual user preferences.
[0011] Additionally, the incorporation of hydraulic devices contributes to the intricacy of the overall system. Hydraulic impact dampers involve a complex mechanism with moving parts and the need for proper fluid pressure regulation. This complexity can introduce additional points of failure or potential malfunctions if not designed or maintained properly.
[0012] To address these challenges, a dampening apparatus is proposed. The present invention effectively addresses the limitations posed by existing impact dampening systems through the introduction of the dampening apparatus. This innovative solution offers a wider range of modifications to the dampening apparatus. Its application holds the potential to meticulously orchestrate controlled responses to impact occurrences, ensuring smoother operational dynamics, minimized mechanical stress, improved accuracy, and an overall enhanced user experience.
SUMMARY
[0013] This summary is provided to introduce concepts related to the field of impact dampers. More specifically, the present specification relates to a dampening apparatus. This summary is not intended to identify the essential features of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended for use in determining or limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[0014] In a non-limiting embodiment, a dampening apparatus includes a leg structure, a prime mover, a power screw assembly and a friction spring. In addition, the prime mover is mounted on the leg structure. Also, the power screw assembly is in engagement with the prime mover assembly. Further, the power screw assembly is positioned inside the leg structure. Additionally, the friction spring is encased in the leg structure.
[0015] In one embodiment, the leg structure may include a plurality of tubular units. The plurality of tubular units may be telescopically engaged. Further, the plurality of tubular units may include an outer tube, a middle tube and an inner tube.
[0016] In another embodiment, the power screw assembly may include a power screw and a nut in mesh. The power screw may include trapezoidal threads. Further, the power screw may be encased inside the outer tube. Also, the nut may be fixed in the middle tube.
[0017] In yet another embodiment, the friction spring may be encased between the inner tube and the middle tube of the leg structure.
[0018] In one embodiment, the prime mover may include an electric actuator coupled to a worm and worm wheel gearbox. Also, the worm and worm wheel gearbox may be in engagement with the power screw of the power screw assembly.
[0019] In another embodiment, the actuation of the electric actuator may extend and/or retract the leg structure.
[0020] In yet another embodiment, the outer tube may externally include a clamp. Additionally, the inner tube may include a base. The base may be in contact with ground.
[0021] In one embodiment, the friction spring may include a plurality of inner elements, a plurality of outer elements and a pair of inner half elements.
[0022] In another embodiment, the external surface of each inner element from the plurality of inner elements may be wedge-shaped. Additionally, the internal surface of each outer element from the plurality of outer elements may be wedge-shaped. Also, the external surface of each inner half element from the pair of inner half peripheral elements may be tapered.
[0023] In yet another embodiment, the plurality of inner elements, the plurality of outer elements and the plurality of inner half elements may be coaxially aligned. Further, the plurality of inner elements may be placed between the plurality of outer elements. Furthermore, the internal surface of the outer element may slide on the external surface of inner element. In addition, each inner half peripheral element from the inner half peripheral elements may be placed on extreme ends. Additionally, the internal surface of the outer element may slide on the external surface of the inner element.
[0024] In one embodiment, the power screw assembly may include power screw, ball screw, or roller screw.
[0025] In another embodiment, the prime mover may include an arrangement for manually extending and retracting the leg structure.
[0026] In yet another embodiment, the power screw and the nut may include trapezoidal or square threads. Additionally, the trapezoidal or square threads may facilitate positive locking between the power screw and the nut.
[0027] In one embodiment, wherein positive locking may be facilitated between the worm and worm wheel of the worm and worm wheel gearbox.
[0028] In another embodiment, impact force exerted to the clamp of the outer tube may be transferred first to the middle tube and second to the friction spring and subsequently may be transferred to the base of the inner tube. In addition, the power screw assembly may be isolated from the impact force.
The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0029] Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:
[0030] Figure 1 illustrates a sectional view of a dampening apparatus (100), in accordance with various embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0031] Figure 2 illustrates an isometric view of the dampening apparatus (100), in accordance with various embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0032] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded view of a friction spring (108), in accordance with various embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0033] Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the friction spring (108), in accordance with various embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0034] Figure 5 illustrates the sectional view of the friction spring (108), in accordance with various embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0035] It should be noted that the accompanying figures are intended to present illustrations of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. These figures are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0036] Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” or “in an embodiment” in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
[0037] The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “an article” may include a plurality of articles unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Although any methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the present disclosure, the exemplary methods are described. The disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure, which may be embodied in various forms.
[0038] Various modifications to the embodiment may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art and the generic principles herein may be applied to other embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in the art may readily recognize that the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments illustrated but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described herein. The detailed description of the invention will be described hereinafter referring to accompanied drawings.
[0039] In the various embodiments disclosed herein, ‘a dampening apparatus’ may be interchangeably read and/or interpreted as ‘impact/recoil dampening system’ or ‘a impact/recoil support apparatus’ or ‘a kickback dampening device’ or ‘a dampening support device’ or the like.
[0040] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting but rather to provide an understandable description of the invention.
[0041] Those with ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated, relative to other elements, in order to improve the understanding of the present invention. There may be additional components described in the foregoing application that are not depicted on one of the described drawings. In the event such a component is described, but not depicted in a drawing, the absence of such a drawing should not be considered as an omission of such design from the specification.
[0042] In the accompanying drawings components have been represented, showing only specific details that are pertinent for an understanding of the present invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those with ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
[0043] In accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter, referring to figure 1, a dampening apparatus (100) is described herein. Further, also referring to figure 2, showcasing an isometric view of the dampening apparatus (100), the dampening apparatus (100) is described herein.
[0044] In general, dampening devices (or impact dampening apparatus for support) are intricately engineered mechanisms intended to alleviate the detrimental consequences of impact forces encountered in a wide range of applications. By proficiently managing the energy generated during impact events through absorption, redirection, or dissipation of kinetic energy, these devices ameliorate safety, augment performance outcomes, and enhance user comfort, thus constituting an essential means of regulating and reducing impact forces across diverse mechanical systems.
[0045] In a non-limiting embodiment, the dampening apparatus (100) may include a leg structure (102), a prime mover (104), a power screw assembly (106) and a friction spring (108). The prime mover (104) is mounted on the leg structure (102). Additionally, the power screw assembly (106) is in engagement with the prime mover assembly (104). Further, the power screw assembly (106) is positioned inside the leg structure (102). Furthermore, the friction spring (108) is encased in the leg structure (102).
[0046] In one embodiment, the leg structure (102) may include a plurality of tubular units (102a, 102b, 102c). The plurality of tubular units (102a, 102b, 102c) may be telescopically engaged. In another implementation, the plurality of tubular units (102a, 102b, 102c) may include an outer tube (102a), a middle tube (102b) and an inner tube (102c).
[0047] In another embodiment, the power screw assembly (106) may include a power screw and a nut. In addition, the power screw and the nut may be mesh. In one implementation, the power screw may be housed inside the outer tube (102a) and the nut may be encased in the middle tube (102b). The power screw may be rotatably supported in the outer tube (102a), such that the power screw may be free to rotate inside the outer tube (102a). In addition, the one end of the power screw maybe rotatably mounted on the top of the leg structure (102). In addition, the nut may be mounted (or secured) on top of the middle tube (102b), such that the other end of power screw may be in mesh with the power screw. Also, implying that the rotation of the power screw may pull or push (retract or extend) the middle tube (102b) in the outer tube (102a).
[0048] In yet another embodiment, the power screw assembly (106) may be power screw, ball screw, roller screw, and the like.
[0049] In another embodiment, the power screw (and nut) may include trapezoidal threads. The trapezoidal threads may resist self-loosening and provide a secure, stable connection. In another implementation, the power screw (and nut) may include trapezoidal threads, square threads, and the like. The trapezoidal or square threads may facilitate positive locking between the power screw and the nut.
[0050] In one embodiment, the prime mover (104) may include an electric actuator coupled to a worm and worm wheel gearbox. Further, worm and worm wheel gearbox may be in engagement with the power screw of the power screw assembly (106). In one implementation, the actuation of the electric actuator may drive the worm and worm wheel gearbox, which in turn may drive the power screw, resulting in the extension and retraction of the leg structure. In case of power failure, due to presence of trapezoidal threads, the power screw and nut may be locked. Also, worm and worm wheel of the aforementioned gearbox may be locked in such situation. Thus, implying that the dampening apparatus (100) has dual positive lock, as described above. It is reiterated that the worm and worm wheel gearbox, and the power screw assembly (106) may have positive locking capabilities. In another implementation, the dampening apparatus may include electromagnetic (EM) brakes/clutches for emergency braking of the extension and retraction operation of the leg structure (102).
[0051] In another embodiment, the friction spring (108) may be positioned between the inner tube (102c) and the middle tube (102b). In one implementation, the friction spring (108) may be encased in a slot of the leg structure (102). The slot may be positioned in the middle tube (102b).
[0052] In yet another embodiment, the outer tube (102a) may externally include a clamp. The clamp may be included for securing the dampening apparatus (100) to any machine, vehicle, object, and the like. In addition, the inner tube (102c) may include a base, the base may be in contact with ground.
[0053] In one embodiment, an exertion of impact force to the clamp of the outer tube (102a) may transferred first to the middle tube (102b) and second to the friction spring (108) and subsequently transferred to the base of the inner tube (102c). The force will be directly transferred from the clamp to the base, such that the power screw of the power screw assembly (104) may be isolated from the impact force. The impact force may be transferred to the ground and the friction spring (108) may facilitate in partial absorption of the impact force, preventing the bending of the power screw.
[0054] In another embodiment, the dampening support (100) may be configured to partially absorb an impact force (by the friction spring (108)), while transferring the remaining impact force to the underlying surface (or to the ground) such that the dampening apparatus (100) can be capable of resisting extreme impact forces.
[0055] In accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter, referring to figure 3, the friction spring (108) is described herein. Further, also referring to figure 4 illustrating a side view of the friction spring (108), the friction spring (108) is described herein.
[0056] In yet another embodiment, the friction spring (108) may include a plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c), a plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g) and a pair of inner half elements (108h, 108i).
[0057] In one implementation, external surface of each inner element from the plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c) may be wedge-shaped (or double-conical shaped). In another implementation, the internal surface of each outer element from the plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g) may be wedge-shaped (or double-conical shaped). In yet another implementation, the external surface of each inner half element from the pair of inner half peripheral elements (108h, 108i) may be tapered.
[0058] In another embodiment, the plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c), the plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g) and the plurality of inner half elements (108h, 108i) may be coaxially aligned. The plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c) may be placed between the plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g). Additionally, the internal surface of the outer element slides on the external surface of inner element. Also, each inner half peripheral element from the inner half peripheral elements (108h, 108i) may be placed on extreme ends. Additionally, the internal surface of the outer element may slide on the external surface of the inner element.
[0059] In yet another implementation, the external surface of each inner element from the plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c), internal surface of each outer element from the plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g), and external surface of each inner half element from the pair of inner half peripheral elements (108h, 108i) may have surface finish (or texture). The surface finish will facilitate in easy sliding of the aforementioned elements.
[0060] In one embodiment, the friction spring (108) may absorb impact forces. The friction spring (108) may be configured to regain its initial position, in a short time span, after the implication of impact force. In scenarios, where multiple impact forces are applied on the dampening apparatus (100), the friction spring (108) may get minimal time for settling (regaining its original size and shape after experiencing an impact force). In such cases, the friction spring (108) may be configured to function flawlessly, improving the efficiency of the overall system in which the dampening apparatus (100) may be employed.
[0061] In another embodiment, the prime mover (104) may include an arrangement for manually extending and retracting the leg structure (102), in case of power failure. The arrangement may be a rotary wheel or handle, in order to rotate the power screw.
[0062] In yet another embodiment, the prime mover (104) may be at least one of an electric motor, electric actuator, hydraulic actuator, gearbox, drive unit, and combination thereof. In addition, the type of electric motor can be direct current (DC) motor, alternating current (AC) motor, induction motor, synchronous motor, servo motor, stepper motor, universal motor, brushless reluctance motor (BLRM), linear motor, piezoelectric motor, hysteresis motor, and the like.
[0063] In one embodiment, the electric actuator and the gearbox can be encased within a protective casing, rendering it amenable to operation under diverse environmental conditions. Further, central axis of the power screw and the electric actuator may be orthogonal. Furthermore, the worm and worm wheel gearbox can be a self-lubricating coupling arrangement configured to reduce friction and wear without requiring external lubricants, leading to extended service life and reduced maintenance needs.
[0064] Alternatively, the prime mover (104) may be controlled using a control system. Also, the control system may be operated by an user associated with the dampening apparatus (100).
[0065] In an exemplary embodiment, the dampening apparatus (100) can be deployed in heavy machineries, industrial machineries, firearms and artilleries, armoured vehicles, and the like.
[0066] In another exemplary embodiment, the heavy machineries can be construction machineries, earthmoving equipment, demolition equipment, mining equipment, heavy hydraulic systems, off-road vehicles, marine and naval equipment, heavy agricultural machineries, material handling machineries, railway maintenance equipment, heavy industrial machineries, logging equipment, and the like.
[0067] In yet another exemplary embodiment, the firearms and artilleries can include handguns, rifles, shotguns, heavy artillery systems, howitzers, rocket launchers and the like.
[0068] In another exemplary embodiment, the industrial machineries may be metal forming machineries, punching and shearing machines, forging machineries, plastic injection moulding machines, heavy assembly lines, material handling systems, packaging machineries, printing machineries, textile machineries, woodworking machineries, and the like.
[0069] In yet another exemplary embodiment, the armoured vehicles may be ground-based artillery vehicles, self-propelled howitzers, multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), artillery gun trucks, mobile artillery command posts, armoured howitzer carriers and the like.
[0070] In an exemplary embodiment, the dampening apparatus (100) can be deployed in a vehicle mounted artillery system. The dampening apparatus (100) can be configured to transmit the impact force, generated during firing of the artillery system, to the ground and to partially absorb the impact force. The implementation of the dampening apparatus (100) in the vehicle mounted artillery system can improve the stability of the vehicle, improve the intense rate of fire in the artillery system. The implementation of multiple dampening apparatus (100) can be deployed in the vehicle, in order to stabilize the artillery system on uneven terrains. The stability and accuracy of the artillery system can be enhanced by the dual positive lock, as described above.
[0071] The invention is further defined by at least the examples provided in the following items:
Item 1 A dampening apparatus (100), comprising:
a leg structure (102),
a prime mover (104) mounted on the leg structure (102);
a power screw assembly (106) in engagement with the prime mover assembly (104), wherein the power screw assembly (106) is positioned inside the leg structure (102); and
a friction spring (108) encased in the leg structure (102).
Item 2 The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1, wherein the leg structure (102) comprises a plurality of tubular units (102a, 102b, 102c), wherein the plurality of tubular units (102a, 102b, 102c) are telescopically engaged, wherein plurality of tubular units (102a, 102b, 102c) comprises an outer tube (102a), a middle tube (102b) and an inner tube (102c).
Item 3 The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1 and 2, wherein the power screw assembly (106) comprises a power screw and a nut in mesh, wherein the power screw comprises trapezoidal threads, wherein the power screw is encased inside the outer tube (102a), wherein the nut is fixed in the middle tube (102b).
Item 4 The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1, 2 and 3, wherein the friction spring (108) is encased between the inner tube (102c) and the middle tube (102b).
Item 5 The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1 and 3, wherein the prime mover (104) comprises an electric actuator coupled to a worm and worm wheel gearbox, wherein the worm and worm wheel gearbox is in engagement with the power screw of the power screw assembly (106).
Item 6 The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1, 3 and 5, wherein the actuation of the electric actuator extends and retracts the leg structure (102).
Item 7 The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1 and 2, wherein the outer tube (102a) externally comprises a clamp, wherein the inner tube (102c) comprises a base, wherein the base is in contact with ground.
Item 8 The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1, wherein the friction spring (108) comprises a plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c), a plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g) and a pair of inner half elements (108h, 108i).
Item 9 The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1 and 8, wherein external surface of each inner element from the plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c) is wedge-shaped, wherein internal surface of each outer element from the plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g) is wedge-shaped, wherein external surface of each inner half element from the pair of inner half peripheral elements (108h, 108i) is tapered.
Item 10 The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1, 8 and 9, wherein the plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c), the plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g) and the plurality of inner half elements (108h, 108i) are coaxially aligned, wherein the plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c) are placed between the plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g), wherein the internal surface of the outer element slides on the external surface of inner element, wherein the each inner half peripheral element from the inner half peripheral elements (108h, 108i) is placed on extreme ends, wherein the internal surface of the outer element slides on the external surface of the inner element.
Item 11. The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1 and 3, wherein the power screw assembly (106) comprises power screw, ball screw, or roller screw.
Item 12. The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1 and 6, wherein the prime mover (104) comprises an arrangement for manually extending and retracting the leg structure (102).
Item 13. The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1 and 3, wherein the power screw and the nut comprises at least one of trapezoidal and square threads, wherein the at least one of trapezoidal and square threads enables positive locking between the power screw and the nut.
Item 14. The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1 and 3, wherein the worm and worm wheel of the worm and worm wheel gearbox enables positive locking.
Item 15. The dampening apparatus (100) of item 1, 2, 3, 4 and 7, wherein the impact force exerted to the clamp of the outer tube (102a) is transferred first to the middle tube (102b) and second to the friction spring (108) and subsequently transferred to the base of the inner tube (102c), wherein the power screw assembly (104) is isolated from the impact force.
[0072] The impact dampening support apparatus (100) as disclosed in the present disclosure may have the following advantageous functionalities over the conventional art:
• thoroughly organize and execute controlled responses to impact events,
• ensure smoother operational dynamics,
• minimize mechanical stress,
• improve stability,
• minimize maintenance requirement,
• reduction in cost and weight,
• increased customization options,
• reduced complexity,
• improved accuracy, and
• an overall enhanced user experience.
[0073] The foregoing description shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in any limiting sense. A person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that certain modifications could come within the scope of this disclosure.
[0074] The embodiments, examples, and alternatives of the preceding paragraphs or the description, including any of their various aspects or respective individual feature(s), may be taken independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless such features are incompatible.
, Claims:features are incompatible.
WE CLAIM:
1. A dampening apparatus (100), comprising:
a leg structure (102),
a prime mover (104) mounted on the leg structure (102);
a power screw assembly (106) in engagement with the prime mover assembly (104), wherein the power screw assembly (106) is positioned inside the leg structure (102); and
a friction spring (108) encased in the leg structure (102).
2. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the leg structure (102) comprises a plurality of tubular units (102a, 102b, 102c), wherein the plurality of tubular units (102a, 102b, 102c) are telescopically engaged, wherein plurality of tubular units (102a, 102b, 102c) comprises an outer tube (102a), a middle tube (102b) and an inner tube (102c).
3. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claims 1 and 2, wherein the power screw assembly (106) comprises a power screw and a nut in mesh, wherein the power screw comprises trapezoidal threads, wherein the power screw is encased inside the outer tube (102a), wherein the nut is fixed in the middle tube (102b).
4. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claims 1, 2 and 3, wherein the friction spring (108) is encased between the inner tube (102c) and the middle tube (102b).
5. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 and 3, wherein the prime mover (104) comprises an electric actuator coupled to a worm and worm wheel gearbox, wherein the worm and worm wheel gearbox is in engagement with the power screw of the power screw assembly (106).
6. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claims 1, 3 and 5, wherein the actuation of the electric actuator extends and retracts the leg structure (102).
7. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 and 2, wherein the outer tube (102a) externally comprises a clamp, wherein the inner tube (102c) comprises a base, wherein the base is in contact with ground.
8. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the friction spring (108) comprises a plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c), a plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g) and a pair of inner half elements (108h, 108i).
9. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 and 8, wherein external surface of each inner element from the plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c) is wedge-shaped, wherein internal surface of each outer element from the plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g) is wedge-shaped, wherein external surface of each inner half element from the pair of inner half peripheral elements (108h, 108i) is tapered.
10. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, 8 and 9, wherein the plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c), the plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g) and the plurality of inner half elements (108h, 108i) are coaxially aligned, wherein the plurality of inner elements (108a, 108b, 108c) are placed between the plurality of outer elements (108d, 108e, 108f, 108g), wherein the internal surface of the outer element slides on the external surface of inner element, wherein the each inner half peripheral element from the inner half peripheral elements (108h, 108i) is placed on extreme ends, wherein the internal surface of the outer element slides on the external surface of the inner element.
11. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, wherein the power screw assembly (106) comprises power screw, ball screw, or roller screw.
12. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1 and 6, wherein the prime mover (104) comprises an arrangement for manually extending and retracting the leg structure (102).
13. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, wherein the power screw and the nut comprises at least one of trapezoidal and square threads, wherein the at least one of trapezoidal and square threads enables positive locking between the power screw and the nut.
14. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claims 1 and 3, wherein the worm and worm wheel of the worm and worm wheel gearbox enables positive locking.
15. The dampening apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, 2, 3, 4 and 7, wherein the impact force exerted to the clamp of the outer tube (102a) is transferred first to the middle tube (102b) and second to the friction spring (108) and subsequently transferred to the base of the inner tube (102c), wherein the power screw assembly (104) is isolated from the impact force.
Dated this 13th day of February 2024

Priyank Gupta
Agent for the Applicant
IN/PA-1454