Elastomer Brush Pivot Assembly for Reliable Blower Motor Contact

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing configuration of motor vehicle air blower electric motors with brushed motors is complex and unreliable due to the need for radial channels and springs to position brushes against the commutator, complicating manufacturing and operation.

Innovation Solution

An assembly using a pivot connection element made from elastomer material that exerts a return force to move the brush closer to the commutator, eliminating the need for springs and allowing for easier assembly and reliable operation by using a polymer with Shore A hardness between 70 and 90, which enables pivoting movements without radial ducts.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If springs and radial channels are used to position brushes against the commutator, then the brush can be pressed against the commutator, but the structure becomes complex and manufacturing becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebrush contact reliabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the material parameter of the pivot connection element from rigid (metal) to elastic (e.g., polyamide with fibers). This material parameter change enables the pivot to provide both structural support and elastic force to press the brush against the commutator, eliminating the need for separate springs and radial channels while maintaining reliable brush contact throughout the motor's operational life.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If springs and radial channels are used to position brushes, then brush pressure is maintained, but manufacturing steps increase and assembly becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebrush pressure maintenanceVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functions into the single pivot connection element: it provides structural support, enables pivoting motion, and generates elastic force to press the brush against the commutator. This consolidation of functions into one elastomeric component dramatically simplifies manufacturing by eliminating the need to produce and assemble separate springs, radial channels, and pivot mechanisms, while ensuring consistent brush pressure throughout the motor's life.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If rigid pivot connections are used, then structural support is provided, but brush movement is restricted and reliable contact cannot be maintained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebrush movement freedomVSAvoidcontact consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the mechanical parameter of the pivot connection from rigid to elastic. The elastomeric material (e.g., polyamide with reinforcing fibers) provides both flexibility for pivoting motion and elastic recovery to maintain consistent brush contact pressure. This parameter change allows the brush to adapt to commutator wear and positioning variations while maintaining reliable electrical contact throughout the motor's operational life.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This solution simplifies the assembly process and enhances the reliability of the blower operation by eliminating the need for springs and radial channels, ensuring consistent contact between the brush and commutator, and allowing for more versatile brush movement.

Implementation Method 1

the pivot connection element is made from an elastomer material so as to exert a return force on the arm

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS12051961B2Assembly for a motor vehicle blower
Publication Date: 2024.07.30 VALEO SYST THERMIQUES SAS
  • US12051961B2 patent drawing
  • US12051961B2 patent drawing
  • US12051961B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to an assembly for an electric motor, comprising a motor support (2), a brush (5) and a device for moving (7, 10) the brush (5), the device comprising an arm (7) rigidly connected to the brush (5) and a pivot connector (10) between the support (2) and the arm (7), characterised in that the pivot connector (10) is made from an elastomeric material so as to exert a restoring force on the arm (7).