Modular Contact Protection for Drive Shafts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing contact protection devices for drive shafts in test bench environments are inflexible, require costly mechanical adaptation, and are not easily reusable across different shaft lengths and diameters, leading to logistical and economic inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A modular contact protection system with exchangeable extension parts and a radially inwardly extending protective barrier, allowing for axial and radial expansion, and a hinge connection for easy adjustment and quick conversion, along with a safety circuit breaker for secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If contact protection devices are designed for different shaft lengths and diameters, then protection coverage is improved, but device complexity and logistical burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The contact protection device is divided into a central part and multiple exchangeable extension parts that can be attached to individual parts of the center part. This segmentation allows the device to be configured for different shaft lengths and diameters by selecting appropriate extension parts, rather than requiring completely different protection devices for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The central part is designed with standardized interfaces that can accommodate multiple types of extension parts, creating a universal base structure. This allows a single central part to serve multiple functions by pairing with different extension parts for various shaft configurations, reducing the need for multiple specialized devices.
2Manufacturing precision
If contact protection is adapted by mechanical processing, then fit to specific shaft dimensions is improved, but cost and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of mechanically processing a single monolithic protection device, the invention segments the device into standardized components with predetermined dimensions. The extension parts are manufactured to precise specifications in advance, eliminating the need for costly mechanical processing during field adaptation while maintaining precise fit.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension parts are pre-manufactured with precise dimensions and attachment features before deployment. This preliminary action ensures exact fit for specific shaft dimensions without requiring expensive mechanical processing at the time of installation, as the precise dimensions are built into the modular components during manufacturing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If contact protection is designed for largest diameter, then versatility for different shaft sizes is improved, but device size and economy worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The protection device is segmented into a compact central part and separate extension parts. The central part maintains a compact size suitable for storage and handling, while extension parts are added only when needed for specific shaft diameters. This eliminates the need to design the entire device for the largest possible diameter from the start.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static monolithic structure to a dynamic modular configuration. The central part remains compact, and extension parts are attached or detached based on the specific shaft dimensions required, allowing the device to dynamically adapt its size and configuration rather than being permanently sized for the maximum diameter.
4Adaptability or versatility
If modular exchangeable parts are used, then adaptability and reuse are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into a central part and extension parts with standardized interfaces. This segmentation enables rapid conversion by allowing extension parts to be easily attached or detached without affecting the central structure, simplifying the modular system compared to completely customizable configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The central part is designed as a universal platform with standardized attachment interfaces that work with multiple types of extension parts. This universality reduces the overall complexity of the modular system, as the same central part can accommodate various extension parts without requiring complex customization or multiple specialized components.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
The unit (1) has a multipart center section whose two individual parts (2a, 2b) are detached from each other and arranged on a box closed in a circumferential direction. Replaceable extension parts (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b) are fastened to an axial end of the individual parts and extend the individual parts in an axial direction. The center section is designed as a two-piece, and the two individual parts are connected by a hinge (7) such that the individual parts are opened. The extension parts are movably arranged in the axial direction. An independent claim is also included for a test stand with a load machine i.e. electric motor, and a test specimen i.e. combustion engine.