Dual Energy Guide Chain Layout for Compact Vertical Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional energy transmission chain arrangements are not suitable for vertical applications with long travel paths, as they cannot be compactly retracted to a length significantly shorter than half the intended travel path, making them inefficient for transport and storage.
Innovation Solution
A movable carriage with a third connection point and an auxiliary power transmission chain allows the main energy chain to be retracted by fixing the first connection point, using the carriage to adjust the second connection point to a compact parking position, achieving a significantly shorter overall length compared to traditional designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a conventional energy transmission chain is used for vertical applications with long travel paths, then the chain can protect cables during operation, but the chain cannot be compactly retracted to a length significantly shorter than half the intended travel path
Solution Approach 1:
The energy transmission chain is divided into two separate chains: a main energy transmission chain for cable protection during operation, and an auxiliary energy transmission chain for retracting the first connection point. This segmentation allows independent functionality of each chain, enabling compact retraction while maintaining operational effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
A movable carriage is introduced as an intermediary component that carries both connection points and serves as the mechanism for retracting the first connection point. The carriage moves independently along the travel path, allowing the energy transmission chain to be drawn into a compact retracted position without compromising its operational length.
2Length of moving object
If the first connection point is made stationary in conventional designs, then the energy chain provides stable cable routing, but the overall arrangement cannot be retracted to a compact length
Solution Approach 1:
The first connection point is transformed from a stationary element to a dynamic element that can move between an operating position (providing stable cable routing) and a retracted parking position (achieving compact overall length). This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The function of the first connection point is separated from the main energy transmission chain by placing it on a movable carriage. This segmentation allows the connection point to be independently retracted while the main chain remains stationary and stable during operation.
3Ease of operation
If a single energy transmission chain is used, then the structure is simple, but the arrangement cannot achieve compact retraction for vertical applications
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses two energy transmission chains with distinct functions: the main chain for cable protection during operation and the auxiliary chain for retracting the first connection point. This functional segmentation achieves compact retraction capability while maintaining relatively simple individual chain structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable carriage serves multiple functions: it carries both the first and second connection points, provides the retraction mechanism for the first connection point, and guides the auxiliary energy transmission chain. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, balancing complexity with functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an arrangement for the cable supply of a movable consumer, in particular in vertical applications, such as for example a drilling rig or the like. A main energy guide chain (10) guides at least one cable between a first connection point (6) and a second connection point (7) that is movable relative thereto, wherein said second connection point is moved between a first end position (4) and a second end position (5) of the consumer. According to the invention, a displaceable carriage (20) with an additional auxiliary energy guide chain (14) is provided for guiding the at least one cable between a third connection point (8) on the displaceable carriage and a stationary fourth connection point (9). This allows a retraction of the main energy guide chain (10) between an operating position and a parking position.