Power Rotating Transfer Coupler for Retractable Shade Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotatable electrical coupling devices are not suitable for interfacing with rotating roller members in retractable shade systems, leading to limitations in providing uninterrupted electrical power transfer between moving and stationary components, particularly in applications like boats and recreational vehicles where continuous power is critical.
Innovation Solution
A power rotating transfer coupler with a contact ring assembly and spring-loaded contact pins, mounted between the roller member and the framework, maintains an uninterrupted electrical connection through relative motion, using concentric ring members and lead wires to ensure safe and effective power transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If prior art rotatable electrical coupling devices are used, then electrical connection between rotating components is maintained, but they are not suitable for interfacing with rotating roller members in retractable shade systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary coupling device that bridges the rotating roller member and the stationary framework. The coupler includes a stationary housing mounted to the framework and a rotating housing mounted to the roller member, with contact rings and contact pins serving as intermediaries to transfer electrical power across the rotational interface. This intermediary structure enables adaptation to the specific roller member interface while maintaining reliable electrical connection.
2Reliability
If conventional coupling designs are used, then structural application requirements are met, but limitations exist in providing uninterrupted electrical power transfer between moving and stationary components
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is segmented into distinct functional components: a stationary housing with stationary contact rings, a rotating housing with rotating contact rings, spring-loaded contact pins for electrical contact, and flexible cables for power transmission. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to provide uninterrupted power transfer. The modular design maintains reliability without excessive overall complexity.
3Strength
If existing electrical coupling devices are used in retractable shade systems, then power transfer is achieved, but safe and effective power transfer withstood mechanical forces and movements is not ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates spring-loaded contact pins that provide resilient electrical contact between the rotating and stationary components. The springs beforehand cushion the mechanical forces and movements that occur during roller rotation, maintaining reliable electrical connection despite mechanical stress. This prior cushioning approach ensures strength to withstand forces while keeping the design relatively simple for manufacture and assembly.
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
The solution provides reliable, safe, and continuous electrical power transfer, capable of withstanding mechanical forces and movements, while being economical, easy to assemble, and maintain, ensuring uninterrupted power supply to LED devices and solar panels in retractable shade systems.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring centrally positioned and set against of the end of the housing for constant tensioning of the housing against the contact ring assembly
Implementation Method 2
a contact pin assembly having separate spring-loaded contact pins each connected to a lead wire
Implementation Method 3
a contact ring assembly set immediately adjacent to the roller member including a pair of separate continuous ring members each made of an electrical conductor material
Data Source
AI summary
A power rotating transfer coupler is disclosed for use within a retractable shade system of the type operatively deployed upon a rotating roller member transversely disposed within a framework and mounted in connection with a boat, recreational vehicle or other stationary structure. Adapted for mounted attachment to the end of the roller member intermediate of the roller member and the adjacent framework, the power transfer coupler comprises a contact ring assembly set immediately adjacent to the roller member having separate continuous ring members of different diameter concentrically disposed each with a separate power wire attached thereto, a contact pin assembly having separate spring-loaded contact pins each connected to a lead wire and fitted within a cylindrical housing in a respective position to make contact with a respective one of the ring members, and a compression spring centrally positioned and set against of the end of the housing for constant tensioning of the housing against the contact ring assembly so that an uninterrupted electrical connection with the respective contact rings is maintained throughout relative motion of the roller member during operational deployment of the shade system.