Ring Turner Bearing Structure for Thin Durable Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a demand for a standard, cost-effective, and durable rotation mechanism that can be used in various configurations to allow relative rotation between two parallel surfaces of objects, as existing turntable mechanisms are often specific to particular devices and structures.
Innovation Solution
A turner apparatus with a ring-shaped frame and rotor mechanism, featuring a C-shaped cross section and ball-shape rotors, which allows for relative rotation between two surfaces while minimizing thickness and component count, and can be easily mounted or embedded between objects for secure and efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If existing turntable mechanisms are used, then rotation function is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation mechanism is divided into three independent functional modules: a frame body providing structural support, a rotor mechanism containing rolling elements for rotation, and a support turner with bearing surfaces. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while reducing overall complexity and enabling standardized production.
Solution Approach 2:
The turner apparatus is designed as a universal rotation mechanism that can be applied across various devices and configurations. The standardized frame body, rotor mechanism, and support turner can serve multiple functions in different applications, reducing the need for device-specific custom mechanisms and lowering overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If more components are added to improve durability, then reliability increases, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple structural functions are merged into the frame body, which simultaneously provides mechanical support, defines the rotor chamber, and interfaces with the support turner. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components needed while maintaining structural durability through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotor mechanism uses ball-shaped rolling elements specifically at the contact points between the frame body and support turner, providing localized high-durability bearing surfaces where rotation occurs. This targeted application of enhanced local quality ensures durability at critical points without requiring all components to be overly robust.
3Ease of operation
If thickness is reduced for ease of mounting, then ease of operation improves, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The frame body utilizes a three-dimensional hollow structure with integrated rolling surfaces and mounting features that distribute loads across multiple dimensions. This spatial arrangement provides high structural strength relative to the component's thickness, enabling easy mounting between surfaces while maintaining durability through geometric optimization rather than increased mass.
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 turner apparatus provides a strong, durable, and cost-effective solution for relative rotation between two surfaces, minimizing the gap between objects and ensuring secure positioning, making it suitable for various industrial applications with a simple and efficient assembly process.
Implementation Method 1
each of the plurality of rotors is free to roll on both the first rolling surface of the turner frame and the second rolling surface of the support turner
Data Source
AI summary
A turner apparatus, adapted for supportively disposed between two surfaces of two objects so as to allow the two objects rotating with respect to each other, includes a frame body and a rotor mechanism. The frame body includes a ring-shape turner frame and a ring-shape support turner, wherein the turner frame having a ring-shape rotor chamber formed therein and said support turner is rotatably mounted at an opening of the rotor chamber to enclose the rotor chamber. The rotor mechanism which is rotatably received in said rotor chamber includes a plurality of rotors and a ring-shape retainer unit configured to intervally retain the plurality rotors in a rotatable manner. The turner frame has a first rolling surface and the support turner has a second rolling surface, wherein the first and second rolling surfaces are positioned face to face to define a rolling track channel such that each of the plurality of rotors is capable of revolving along the rolling track channel.