Concentric Spindle Brake Layout for Compact Thread Supply Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thread supply spindle units for weaving machines, particularly those supporting carbon fiber threads, are oversized due to the side-by-side arrangement of spindle and brake components, which hinders compact design.
Innovation Solution
A spindle unit design featuring an electromagnetic air-gap brake integrated with the spindle member, where the support shaft and brake shaft share the same axis, allowing for a compact configuration by housing the brake within the spindle member and using a coupler to interlock the components, along with a cylindrical spindle member and O-ring for frictional resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the spindle member and brake unit are arranged side by side, then the brake function is achieved, but the overall unit size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake unit is nested inside the hollow cylindrical spindle member. The brake shaft is positioned concentrically within the spindle member, allowing the brake components to be housed within the spindle's hollow structure rather than requiring separate side-by-side arrangement. This nesting approach achieves the brake function while minimizing the overall unit volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The brake unit and spindle member are merged into a single integrated structure where the brake shaft is coupled to the spindle member through a coupler. The brake unit shares the same axial space as the spindle member, combining two functional components into a compact unified assembly that reduces overall unit size.
2Volume of moving object
If the brake unit is integrated within the spindle member, then the unit size is reduced, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The concentric nesting of the brake shaft within the hollow spindle member creates a compact structure where components are arranged in nested cylindrical layers. This nesting geometry, while space-efficient, requires precise alignment and coupling mechanisms that increase structural complexity compared to simple side-by-side arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
A coupler is introduced as an intermediary component to connect the brake shaft and spindle member. This coupler mediates the mechanical connection between the two components, enabling torque transmission while accommodating the nested arrangement. The addition of this intermediary element increases structural complexity but enables the compact integrated design.
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
This configuration results in a more compact and reliable spindle unit that reduces the axial size while maintaining effective tension control and preventing foreign matter entry, enhancing operational reliability and precision.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic air-gap brake that includes a brake shaft to which resistance is applied upon rotation
Implementation Method 2
O-ring for frictional resistance
Data Source
AI summary
A spindle unit includes a support shaft, an electromagnetic air-gap brake, a spindle member, and a coupler. The support shaft is attached to the stationary frame of a creel. The brake is connected to the front end of the support shaft. The spindle member is rotatably supported by the support shaft in a state in which the support shaft and the brake are inserted in the spindle member. The coupler couples the spindle member and the brake shaft.