Fiber Optic Reel Stand Axle Bearing Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reel stands for dispensing fiber optic cables lack improved functionality in their rotating axle and supporting mechanisms, particularly in reducing friction and enhancing versatility for storage and use.
Innovation Solution
A reel frame stand with hingedly connected legs, bifurcated axle, and specialized axle bearings with cylindrical inner surfaces and bushings to minimize friction, along with adjustable braces and handles for versatile configuration and easy storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional bearing assemblies are used with the rotating axle, then the structure is simple, but friction is high and reel rotation is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing assembly is segmented into multiple components: a first bearing for supporting one end of the axle, a second bearing for supporting the other end, and a third bearing for supporting the brake rotor. This segmentation allows each bearing to be optimized for its specific function while collectively providing smooth rotation with reduced friction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary components including bushings that fit within the bearings and brake rotors that interface with the brake mechanism. These intermediaries reduce direct metal-to-metal contact and friction between the axle and bearing surfaces, enabling smoother rotation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the reel stand is designed for stable reel support, then structural stability is improved, but storage and portability become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The leg structures are designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The legs can be repositioned and reconfigured to provide stable support during reel dispensing operations, then folded or collapsed for compact storage. This dynamic capability allows the stand to adapt between stable operational configuration and compact storage configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The reel stand is divided into separable components including legs, cross supports, and the bearing assembly. These segmented components can be disassembled and stored separately or in compact arrangements, providing storage flexibility while maintaining structural stability when assembled for use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single axle is used for one reel, then the structure is simple, but versatility for handling multiple reels is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing assembly is designed with universal applicability to support multiple axle configurations. The first and second bearings can support a single axle for one reel, while the same bearing structure can accommodate a bifurcated axle for two reels. The brake mechanism is similarly designed to interface with different axle types, providing multi-reel capability without requiring completely separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The axle configuration is made dynamic and adaptable rather than fixed. The bearing assembly can dynamically adjust to accommodate different axle arrangements including single axles, bifurcated axles, and varying reel positions. This dynamic adaptability enables versatility for handling multiple reels while using the same fundamental bearing structure.
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 reduced friction during rotation, improved support for fiber optic reels, and enhanced storage and transport capabilities through adjustable configurations and minimized friction, addressing the need for improved reel stand functionality.
Implementation Method 1
specialized axle bearings with cylindrical inner surfaces and bushings to minimize friction
Data Source
AI summary
A reel frame stand for supporting a reel thereon comprises a first pair of hingedly connected legs oppositely disposed from a second pair of hingedly connected legs; a first axle bearing on the first pair of legs and a second axle bearing on the second pair of legs, and each of the first and second axle bearings comprising a base and a bushing having a cylindrical inner surface surrounding an open channel; an axle having opposing cylindrical portions being rotatably secured within the open channels of the opposing first and second axle bearings to permit selective rotation of the reel supported thereon; a first brace having one end being rotatably secured to one of the legs of the first pair of legs and a second end being selectively securable at one of a plurality of ports on the first pair of legs by a fastener that is sized and configured for engaged receipt within each of the plurality of ports; a second brace having one end being rotatably secured to one of the legs of the second pair of legs and a second end being selectively securable at one of a plurality of ports on the second pair of legs by a fastener that is sized and configured for engaged receipt within each of the plurality of ports; and wherein each of the first and second pairs of hingedly connected legs may be selectively positioned relative to each other in one of a plurality of configurations including a flat configuration, a closed configuration and an open configuration.