Split Slip Ring Assembly for Fast Shaft Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for installing a basic slip ring at the end of a rotating shaft on a coiled tubing reel are time-consuming and awkward, as they require lifting the reel out of its framework and sliding the slip ring over the shaft, which is inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A split slip ring assembly with an inner and outer ring, a contact ring, and a brush assembly, where the rings are divided into semi-circular portions that can be easily assembled and disassembled using hinged connections or fasteners, along with features like bushings for wear prevention, anti-rotation brackets, dust shields, and cord grips for secure electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a basic slip ring is installed using traditional methods, then the slip ring can be securely mounted on the rotating shaft, but the installation process is time-consuming and requires lifting the reel out of its framework
Solution Approach 1:
The slip ring assembly is divided into multiple segments (first slip ring portion and second slip ring portion) that can be separated and reconnected. This segmentation allows the assembly to be opened like a book, enabling installation without lifting the reel, thus resolving the contradiction between secure mounting and installation speed
2Ease of operation
If the slip ring assembly is designed as a split structure with multiple portions, then the assembly can be easily opened and closed for quick installation, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slip ring is segmented into first and second portions that can be opened and closed, improving ease of operation. The segmentation is designed to be simple with connection features that align and secure automatically, minimizing the increase in structural complexity while maximizing operational ease
3Reliability
If bushings are added to prevent wear between inner and outer rings, then the reliability of the rotating connection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Bushings are introduced as intermediary components between the inner and outer rings to prevent direct metal-to-metal contact and reduce wear. These bushings are simple cylindrical components that fit into existing spaces in the slip ring structure, providing wear protection without significantly increasing overall device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A slip ring assembly has an inner ring having an inner ring peripheral wall, an outer wall having an outer ring peripheral wall, and a contact ring having at least one conductive surface positioned between the inner ring and the outer ring. The inner ring has a first inner ring portion and a second inner ring portion that are attachable to each other to create the inner ring. The outer ring has a first outer ring portion and a second outer ring portion that are attachable to each other to create the outer ring. The contact ring has a brush assembly with at least one brush. The contact ring has a first contact ring portion and a second contact ring portion that are attachable to each other to create the contact ring.