Rotary Connector Locking Structure for Foreign Matter Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary connector devices are susceptible to foreign matter entry through the locking unit in the opposing portion between the stationary side ring plate and the outer peripheral cylindrical portion, which can damage the flat cable and generate abnormal noises.
Innovation Solution
A rotary connector device with a foreign matter intrusion suppression unit that includes a blocking member fixed to stationary recesses on the stationary side ring plate and outer peripheral cylindrical portion, forming a stepped shape to deflect and block the entry of foreign matter, and using fitting protrusions and recesses to enhance assembly stability and prevent noise generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a rotary connector device is used to enable continuous rotation of the rotor, then the productivity and efficiency of the liquid chromatography system are improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for additional rotary connectors and flow distribution mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The flow distribution mechanism is segmented into multiple independent flow distribution units, each with its own set of flow distribution channels. This allows the system to handle multiple sample injections simultaneously while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design. Each unit can be independently controlled and maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary connector device is designed to perform multiple functions: it enables continuous rotation of the rotor, distributes flow to multiple injection ports, and maintains sealing between stationary and rotating components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices and simplifies the overall system architecture.
2Productivity
If multiple flow distribution units are used to handle multiple sample injections, then the productivity is improved, but the manufacturing precision and alignment requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each flow distribution unit is designed as an independent module with its own set of flow distribution channels. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of individual units, which can then be assembled together. The modular approach reduces the cumulative alignment errors that would occur in a monolithic design.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow distribution units are arranged in a nested or stacked configuration within the rotary connector device. This nesting allows for precise alignment through hierarchical positioning, where each unit aligns with reference features from previous units, ensuring consistent flow distribution across all injection ports.
3Productivity
If a rotary connector device with multiple flow distribution units is implemented, then the throughput is increased, but the ease of operation and maintenance difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The modular flow distribution units can be independently accessed and maintained. If one unit requires maintenance or replacement, it can be done without disassembling the entire rotary connector device, significantly reducing maintenance time and complexity compared to a monolithic design.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow distribution units are designed as replaceable components. When wear or contamination occurs, entire units can be quickly removed and replaced with pre-conditioned or refurbished units, minimizing system downtime. The removed units can be recovered, refurbished, and returned to service.
Data Source
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AI summary
Aspects of the present invention relate to providing a rotary connector device capable of suppressing the entry of foreign matter into a housing space through a portion corresponding to a locking unit in an opposing portion between a stationary side ring plate and an outer peripheral cylindrical portion. A rotator (10), which is configured by an annular top plate (11) and a cylindrically shaped inner peripheral portion (12), and a stator (20), which is configured by assembling an annular stator main body (21) and a cylindrically shaped sub stator (22), are assembled to be relatively rotatable in both a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction. An SRC (1) that houses a flat cable (F) being wound inside of a housing space (S) formed therein is provided with a stator locking portion (23) that enables a frame-shaped locking portion (231) that extends from the stator main body (21) to lock with a protruding locking portion (232) that is formed on the sub stator (22); and a recess-protrusion fitting portion (25) that suppresses the entry of foreign matter into the housing space (S). The recess-protrusion fitting portion (25) is disposed on an opposing portion (24) that corresponds to the stator locking portion (23).