Helical Bobbin Connector Assembly for Rotary Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connector assemblies for rotary apparatuses in semiconductor processing face issues such as entanglement, brittleness, and stress due to friction and tension, especially in compact environments where space is limited, leading to reliability problems and damage to cables and hoses.
Innovation Solution
A compact integrated connector assembly featuring a helical bobbin with fixedly attached processing components and housed connectors, allowing for smooth rotation with minimal tension through separate helical grooves for power cables and pneumatic hoses, preventing entanglement and stress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If helical cables and springs are used to mount connectors on a rotating support, then the connectors can accommodate rotational motion, but the connectors become entangled and brittle due to prolonged stress and friction
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is segmented into multiple independent connectors (power connector, signal connector, pneumatic connector) that are separately mounted on the rotary support. Each connector can move and rotate independently within its own space, preventing entanglement between different connector types while maintaining their individual functionality during rotational motion.
Solution Approach 2:
A rotary cable chain (energy chain) is introduced as an intermediary mechanism between the stationary cable ends and the rotating connectors. This intermediary device allows the connectors to rotate freely while the cable chain manages the cable routing, preventing direct stress and friction on the connectors themselves during rotational motion.
2Reliability
If a linear energy chain is used for connector assembly, then rotational movement is avoided, but the apparatus requires large manipulation area and cannot be used in compact environments
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly adopts a circular/rotational configuration instead of a linear arrangement. The rotary support with connectors arranged in a circular pattern allows rotational motion within a compact footprint, eliminating the need for large linear manipulation space while maintaining connector stability through the circular guiding structure of the rotary cable chain.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly transitions from a linear one-dimensional arrangement to a two-dimensional circular configuration. This dimensional change allows the connectors to be arranged in a radial pattern around the rotary support, enabling rotational motion within a compact area while maintaining adequate spacing between connectors to prevent entanglement.
3Reliability
If multiple connectors are rigidly connected to the rotary support, then power and signals are supplied reliably, but friction and tension cause extensive stress during rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly transitions from a rigid fixed connection to a dynamic rotating connection. The rotary support enables the connectors to move dynamically during rotation, and the rotary cable chain adapts its configuration during rotational motion to minimize stress. This dynamic approach maintains reliable power and signal supply while reducing friction and tension stress compared to rigid connections.
Data Source
AI summary
A rotary apparatus comprises a rotary bobbin, a processing component fixedly attached to the bobbin and connectors fixedly connected to the processing component. At least one helical groove is located along the bobbin wherein the connectors are housed. A motor coupled to the processing component is operative to rotate the processing component together with the bobbin in two opposite rotary directions.