Rotational Coupling Anti-Slip Design via Segmented Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotational couplings with link elements lack reliable protection against slipping, especially when all link elements fail, and are not easily adaptable for varying torque transmission or inspection.
Innovation Solution
A rotational coupling design featuring first and second carrier bodies with coupling arms that interengage toothedly, connected via elastic link elements, ensuring reliable anti-slip protection even if all link elements fail, with a modular design allowing torque adaptation and easy inspection and replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If elastic link elements are used to connect coupling sections, then the rotational coupling allows for flexibility and accommodation of deviations, but the coupling becomes vulnerable to slipping when all link elements fail
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling arms are segmented into discrete toothed elements that can interengage independently. This segmentation allows the coupling to maintain structural integrity through the toothed interengagement while allowing flexibility through the elastic link elements connecting individual coupling sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The toothed wheel-like interengagement of coupling arms provides a pre-established mechanical backup system. If elastic link elements fail, the interengaging teeth provide immediate structural support and prevent slipping, cushioning against the failure mode before it becomes critical.
2Device complexity
If the rotational coupling is designed with fixed torque transmission capacity, then the structure is simplified, but the coupling cannot be adapted to different torque requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational coupling employs elastic link elements that provide dynamic flexibility, allowing the coupling to adapt its mechanical properties based on operational conditions. The elastic elements can deform to accommodate varying torque loads while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling sections and link elements are designed with adjustable parameters such as the number and arrangement of coupling arms, the properties of elastic elements, and the tooth geometry of coupling arms. These parameter changes allow the same basic structure to be adapted for different torque transmission requirements.
3Ease of manufacture
If the rotational coupling is designed as an integrated unit, then manufacturing is simplified, but inspection and maintenance become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational coupling is segmented into modular components including carrier bodies, coupling arms, and elastic link elements that can be independently inspected and replaced. This modular segmentation facilitates maintenance while allowing for simplified manufacturing of individual standardised parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic link elements are designed as extractable components that can be removed and replaced without dismantling the entire coupling assembly. This extraction capability enables easy maintenance and inspection of critical wear components while maintaining the integrated structure of the carrier bodies and coupling arms.
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 anti-slip protection, adaptable torque transmission, and simplified inspection and maintenance, with reduced thermal loading and extended service life due to efficient heat removal and modular design.
Implementation Method 1
each of the first and second coupling sections (12a, 22a) being coupled via respective elastic link elements (30) to the coupling sections (12a, 22a) respectively adjacent on both sides
Data Source
AI summary
Rotational coupling is provided having: a first carrier body with a first base section and a plurality of first coupling arms extending from the first base section spaced in a circumferential direction, each having a first coupling section jointly defining a first plane running concentrically and perpendicularly to a rotational axis, a second carrier body including a second base section and a plurality of second coupling arms extending from the second base section spaced in the circumferential direction, each having a second coupling section jointly defining a second plane running concentrically and perpendicularly to the rotational axis, first and second carrier bodies arranged such that the planes coincide, the coupling arms facing one another, alternately interengaging and circumferentially spaced, base sections oriented oppositely along the rotational axis, and each of the coupling sections coupled via elastic link elements to the coupling sections respectively adjacent on both sides.