Above is a short series of photographs displaying the motion performed
by the Emerge prototype.
The crank bar of the (lower) four bar linkage will also be attached
to a telescoping/sliding joint on the upper linkage via connecting rod.
While this motion will be nearly identical to that of the LowBoy machine,
it won't include the infamous "whip" effect at the end of the linkage's travel.
The result will be a smooth lift/extend - ten inches to seven feet -four inches.
--- April 27, 2003 ---
The Emerge machine is a little heavier than the
LowBoy, so I intended to use springs with the
"extend" motion this time.
With the springs installed, the
mechanism almost extends without
applying pressurized air.
The lift will be powered by a 1.75" bore,
12" stroke Bimba dual acting cylinder.
(model# D-35238-A-12)
The base ................................................................... 14 ga. 1" X 2" steel tube.
The crank .................................................................. 16 ga. 1" X 2" steel tube.
The follower ............................................................... 14 ga. 1" X 1" steel tube.
The coupler ..................... 16 ga. 1" X 2" steel tube with 5/8" solid steel round stock.
The carriage is 18 ga. 3/4" steel tube, and the carriage
cross members are 1" X 3/16" flat stock.
The connecting rod ........................................................ 16 ga. 1/2" steel tube.
This photo (right) shows the machine near
mid-stroke. This is where the connecting rod
begins the majority of it's travel.
The connecting rod pushes/pulls the carriage
which slides on solid steel bars.
The photo at left shows the emerge machine at full extension.
When the mechanism reaces the end of its travel,
it "hops" instead of "leans." This could be a mixed blessing when it
comes to anchoring the machine. Emerge will likely need forward
anchoring as opposed to rear staking.
The extra weight gained by using solid 5/8" steel
inside the sliding joint is complimented by the dual
1" X .105" X 12" extension springs.
At this point, the motion is fairly smooth.
I suppose all that's left is to test
it for durability, reliability, and safety.
Below are photos of the Emerge machine (pre-haunt)
Finished Prop Measurements
Retracted / Extended
high ..... 10" / 91"
wide ..... 62" / 62"
deep ..... 60" / 54"