Modular Slipring Support Blocks Without a Central Shaft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slipring modules are inflexible and costly to configure for different numbers and types of sliding tracks, requiring a fixed-length hollow tube or shaft, which limits adaptability and increases manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A self-supporting slipring module structure using insulating support blocks with connecting means, eliminating the need for a central shaft or tube, allowing for easy assembly and configuration without a fixed central axis, and enabling the use of the inner space for additional rotary joints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed-length hollow tube or shaft is used to support slipring modules, then structural stability is provided, but adaptability to different configurations is reduced and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple individual support blocks instead of a single continuous shaft or tube. Each support block can be independently selected and stacked to create custom-length configurations, enabling adaptability while maintaining structural stability through the distributed support architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple support blocks are stacked and nested together to form the complete support structure. This modular stacking approach allows flexible configuration by combining different numbers and types of support blocks, eliminating the need for fixed-length shafts while providing cumulative structural stability.
2Reliability
If a fixed-length hollow tube or shaft is used to support slipring modules, then structural stability is provided, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into standardized support blocks that can be manufactured using common processes. This segmentation allows for economies of scale in manufacturing identical blocks, reducing per-unit costs compared to custom-length shafts, while maintaining structural stability through the distributed support architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The support blocks are designed with universal interfaces and standardized dimensions, allowing the same component to be used across multiple configurations. This universality reduces manufacturing complexity and cost by eliminating the need for custom-length shafts, while the stacked arrangement provides adequate structural stability.
3Reliability
If a central shaft or tube is used, then support structure is provided, but inner space is blocked and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monolithic central shaft is segmented into discrete support blocks with through-bores. This segmentation eliminates the blocked inner space problem, allowing cables and other components to pass freely through the stacked structure, while maintaining support functionality. The modular nature simplifies assembly compared to installing and positioning a single long shaft.
Solution Approach 2:
The solid shaft or tube structure is replaced by extracting the blocking material and replacing it with stacked support blocks featuring through-bores. This extraction of the obstructive element opens up the inner space for cable routing and component installation, while the distributed support blocks provide equivalent structural support.
Data Source
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AI summary
A support block for forming a self-supporting modular slipring module comprising an electrically insulating material and being configured for holding at least one sliding track. The support block includes a hollow disk-shaped body having a center opening or bore at a center axis and connecting means at the body configured to form a fixed connection with at least a further support block. The connecting means includes 6 protrusions with 3 protrusions of a first type and 3 protrusions of a second type, alternatingly arranged. The first type of protrusions has a further protrusion at its end, the second type of protrusions has a recess at its end, and the further protrusion is configured to fit into the recess by a press fit.