Bin Sweep Power Transmission via Slip Ring Interface

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Solution Overview

Problem

The independent movement of sweep segments in bin sweep systems creates challenges in maintaining physical and power connections to the center post, particularly when segments rotate past each other, leading to issues with position sensing and power transmission.

Innovation Solution

A central assembly with sweep interface assemblies on the center post that allow each sweep segment to rotate independently while providing power and position sensing, using rotatable housings with position sensing devices and power communication devices like slip rings to maintain connection and control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If sweep segments are allowed to rotate independently past each other, then the bin sweep system achieves greater flexibility and coverage area, but maintaining physical and power connections to the center post becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveindependent movement capabilityVSAvoidconnection stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary power transmission mechanism (flexible conduit or slip ring assembly) between the rotating sweep segments and the stationary center post. This intermediary component allows rotational movement while maintaining continuous power and signal connection, resolving the contradiction between independent movement and connection stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs dynamic connection mechanisms that can accommodate changing spatial relationships between sweep segments and the center post. The flexible power transmission components adapt to the rotating motion, maintaining reliability throughout the range of motion rather than being fixed in a static configuration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If multiple sweep segments rotate independently, then the system can cover larger area and operate more efficiently, but position sensing and power transmission become complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesweep coverage efficiencyVSAvoidpower transmission system

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the power transmission and position sensing system into separate modular interface assemblies, with each sweep segment having its own dedicated interface. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high productivity through parallel operation of multiple segments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The sweep interface assemblies are designed with universal functionality to handle both power transmission and position sensing through integrated circuits and communication protocols. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall system while supporting efficient operation of multiple sweep segments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If sweep segments maintain continuous power connection while rotating, then reliable operation is achieved, but the physical connection mechanism becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower transmission continuityVSAvoidrotatable connection mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical sliding contacts with electrical or magnetic field-based power transmission methods. This substitution eliminates wear and friction issues associated with mechanical systems while maintaining continuous power delivery during rotation, achieving reliability without excessive mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediary components such as flexible power conduits or electromagnetic coupling mechanisms that mediate between the stationary power source and rotating sweep segments. These intermediaries provide continuous power transmission while accommodating rotational movement, reducing the complexity of direct mechanical connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables reliable power transmission and position sensing to each sweep segment, ensuring continuous operation and control even when segments move past each other, enhancing the stability and efficiency of the bin sweep system.

Implementation Method 1

power communication devices like slip rings to maintain connection and control

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction through slip ring: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS10220420B2Bin sweep power transmission system

Publication Date: 2019.03.05 SIOUX STEEL CO

AI summary

A central assembly for a bin sweep apparatus having at least two sweep elements movable substantially independently of each other about the central assembly may comprise a center post and a pair of sweep interface assemblies on the center post. Each sweep interface assembly may be associated with one of the sweep elements of the bin sweep apparatus. In some embodiments, each sweep interface assembly may be configured to sense a position of one of the sweep elements. In some embodiments, each sweep interface assembly may be configured to provide power to one of the sweep elements.