Snap-Fit Slipring Module Assembly With a Free Inner Bore
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slipring modules are complex and expensive to manufacture, and they often require a stiff cylindrical metal tube or structured shaft, which limits their ease of exchange and increases weight.
Innovation Solution
A modular slipring module design featuring a circular cylindrical body made of electrically insulating material with embedded conductive sliding tracks, utilizing snap-fit holders with elastic fingers for secure attachment without the need for internal shafts, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, and enabling the stacking of multiple modules with free inner bores for cable or pipe passage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a cylindrical metal tube or structured shaft is used to hold the slipring module, then mechanical stability and structural strength are improved, but weight increases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the heavy cylindrical metal tube or structured shaft from the design. Instead, the slipring module is held by slipring holders attached to the ends of the module itself, which is made of lightweight insulating material. This extraction of the heavy supporting structure resolves the contradiction by eliminating weight while maintaining stability through the alternative holding mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a hollow body with free inner bore made of insulating material instead of a solid metal tube. This thin-walled hollow structure provides sufficient mechanical stability while dramatically reducing weight compared to traditional solid cylindrical metal tubes.
2Strength
If a cylindrical metal tube or structured shaft is used to hold the slipring module, then mechanical stability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the slipring assembly into modular segments - individual slipring modules that can be independently manufactured and then assembled together using slipring holders. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing by allowing each module to be produced separately and assembled through simple attachment mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of attaching the slipring module to a central shaft or tube, the invention inverts the approach by having the module hold itself through end-mounted slipring holders. This inversion eliminates the need for complex shaft structures and simplifies the overall device architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple slipring modules are stacked to increase functionality, then versatility is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables stacking of multiple slipring modules by providing each module with slipring holders at its ends. These holders feature snap-fit connections that allow modules to be easily assembled in sequence, one on top of another, without requiring complex alignment or fastening procedures. This maintains versatility while keeping assembly simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The slipring modules are designed to be stacked in a nested configuration, with each module containing sliding tracks and contact rings that are self-contained within the module body. The slipring holders at each end allow these nested modules to be securely connected, enabling versatile multi-module assemblies through simple repetitive attachment.
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 modular design reduces manufacturing complexity and cost, provides a lightweight and flexible solution for slipring assemblies, and allows for easy module exchange, while maintaining mechanical stability and preventing rotational movement through sealing rings and axial springs.
Implementation Method 1
The fingers have at least a certain degree of elasticity to be deformed in such a way that they can reach over the rim of the groove
Implementation Method 2
The sealing ring generates friction between the module and the holder, such that there is no movement and specifically no rotational movement between the at least one holder and the module
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
A slipring module assembly comprises a cylindrical slipring module and two holders at both ends of the module. The slipring module has a radial groove at both ends and each holder comprises a plurality of fingers reaching into the radial groove when attached to the slipring module, locking the holder to the module. The holders have support for ball bearings to provide a rotatable support in a housing.