Slip Ring Holder Form-Fitting Connection Axial Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slip ring units for transmitting electrical currents between rotating components are not highly reliable and economical in manufacturing, lacking effective force transmission mechanisms and secure connections.
Innovation Solution
A slip ring unit design featuring a holder with active surfaces forming a form-fitting connection with components, allowing for directional force transmission, combined with a roller bearing for axial force absorption and a housing element for radial securing, enabling reliable and efficient power and signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional slip ring unit is used without form-fitting connections, then the structure is simpler to manufacture, but the reliability and force transmission capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is divided into multiple segments with individual active surfaces that can be independently formed. Each segment can be manufactured separately and then assembled, allowing complex form-fitting connections to be created through simpler individual components. This segmentation enables reliable force transmission while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular production.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism extends from simple radial mounting to three-dimensional form-fitting connections with active surfaces in multiple directions (radial, axial, and circumferential dimensions). The undercut and projection geometry creates engagement in multiple spatial dimensions, transforming a simple mounting interface into a robust multi-dimensional connection that transmits forces from all directions.
2Strength
If axial force transmission is not implemented, then the holder design is simpler, but the roller bearing cannot be properly secured and axial forces cannot be absorbed
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the slip ring brush, creates form-fitting connections for radial securing, transmits axial forces through its active surfaces, and secures the roller bearing in position. This multi-functionality allows a single component to handle both radial and axial force transmission without requiring additional separate structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The active surfaces of the holder are designed with curved or rounded geometries that complement the spherical or cylindrical surfaces of the roller bearing races. This curved surface design allows for smooth force transmission in axial directions while maintaining the form-fitting connection, enabling the holder to absorb axial forces through its geometric shape rather than requiring complex angular contact features.
3Force
If form-fitting connections with undercuts and projections are used, then force transmission capability is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The design parameters of the active surfaces (such as the depth of undercuts, projection dimensions, and surface angles) are optimized to achieve adequate force transmission with reasonable manufacturing tolerances. By carefully selecting these geometric parameters, the connection provides sufficient mechanical strength without requiring extremely tight precision, balancing force transmission capability with manufacturing feasibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The form-fitting connection with undercuts and projections is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The geometry of the mating surfaces automatically guides proper alignment during assembly, and the interlocking features maintain the connection without requiring additional fastening elements or high-precision adjustment mechanisms. This self-service characteristic reduces the actual precision requirements during manufacturing and assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a slip ring assembly with a first and a second component group (1, 2) rotatably arranged relative to each other about an axis (A). The first component group (1) comprises a slip ring brush (1.2) which is attached to a holder (1.3; 1.3') mounted between two components (1.4, 1.5; 1.5') arranged offset from each other in the direction of the axis (A). The second component group (2) has at least one slip ring (2.2). The holder (1.3; 1.3') and at least one of the components (1.4, 1.5; 1.5') each have an effective surface (1.3a, 1.4a, 1.5a; 1.3a', 1.5a') by means of which a positive-locking connection is established between the holder (1.3; 1.3') and the at least one component (1.4, 1.5; 1.5'). The positive-locking connection allows forces with a directional component parallel to the axis (A) to be transmitted. (Figure 2c)