Projectile Braking Elements with Adjustable Friction and Cooling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current projectile braking devices in projectile looms face challenges in accurately controlling the final stopping position of projectiles and have a short service life due to fatigue and overheating, leading to variable stopping positions and high wear on elastomeric materials.

Innovation Solution

An active-type braking device utilizing adjustable frictional force, developed through electrically operated braking elements with movable support bodies allowing precise control of braking intensity and position, distributing the braking action along a predetermined length to minimize stress and wear, and employing cooling mechanisms to manage heat dissipation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a mechanical box device with elastomeric material is used to brake projectiles, then the braking action can be provided, but the service life is short due to fatigue and overheating wear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice life of braking deviceVSAvoidservice life of elastomeric material
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical state and properties of the braking elements by using friction materials with specific characteristics and controlling the braking force parameters. The braking force is regulated to distribute stress evenly, and cooling mechanisms are implemented to control temperature parameters, thereby extending the service life of the braking device while maintaining effective braking action.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the elastomeric material-based mechanical braking system with a friction-based braking system using friction materials that generate frictional force. This substitution eliminates the fatigue and overheating issues associated with elastomeric materials by using materials specifically designed for friction applications, thereby significantly extending service life.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If elastomeric material is used for braking, then braking action is provided, but the final stopping position cannot be accurately controlled

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of stopping position controlVSAvoidprecision of stopping position
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a movable support body that can dynamically adjust its position along the guiding track to control where the projectile is braked. This dynamic positioning system, combined with regulated braking force, enables precise control of the final stopping position. The system can adapt to different braking scenarios and maintain accuracy regardless of wear or varying projectile energies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a control system that monitors the braking process and adjusts the braking force and support body position to achieve the desired stopping position. This feedback mechanism compensates for variations in projectile energy and wear conditions, maintaining precise stopping position control throughout the service life of the braking device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Force

If high braking force is applied to stop projectiles, then stopping effectiveness is improved, but wear and overheating of the braking material increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebraking forceVSAvoidwear and overheating of frictional material
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the braking action into multiple zones along the guiding track by using a movable support body that can be positioned at different locations. This distributes the braking force application points and allows the braking force to be distributed over a longer distance, reducing the intensity of wear and heat generation at any single point while maintaining overall stopping effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces cooling mechanisms as intermediaries between the frictional material and the heat generated during braking. These cooling systems actively remove heat from the frictional material, preventing overheating and extending the service life of the braking components while allowing high braking forces to be applied when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 enables precise control of the projectile's stopping position and significantly extends the service life of the braking device by evenly distributing the braking force and effectively managing heat, reducing wear and tear on the frictional material.

Implementation Method 1

exploiting the frictional force arising from the contact between the projectile surfaces parallel to its moving direction and two opposite braking elements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

said movable support body being provided with a linear electric motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLinear electric motor: Linear Motor

Implementation Method 3

exploiting the frictional force arising from the contact between the projectile surfaces parallel to its moving direction and two opposite braking elements

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction heating: Viscous Heating

Data Source

PatentEP3431644B1Device for the controlled braking of projectiles in a projectile weaving loom
Publication Date: 2020.11.25 ITEMA
  • EP3431644B1 patent drawingFigure 1~5
  • EP3431644B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3431644B1 patent drawingFigure 6

AI summary

A device for the controlled braking of projectiles in a projectile weaving loom comprises two opposite braking elements (1, 2) parallel to the movement direction of the projectile (P). The braking element (2) is movable and operated by an electric drive, with a linear or rotary motor, for tightening the projectile (P) between said braking elements (1, 2) with a braking force (F). Said braking force (F) is adjustable, with a feedback control, according to the stopping position of the projectile (P).