Stator Roller Support Platform for In-Place Motor Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stator holding devices require additional manufacturing steps and equipment to rotate the stator, increasing costs and reducing efficiency due to the need to lift and manually or automatically reposition the stator for alignment and component installation.
Innovation Solution
A stator support device with rollers that allow the stator to be rotated in place, eliminating the need for dedicated equipment by using a base platform with spaced rollers and a rotational torque generator to facilitate stator rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional stator holding devices with fixed supports are used, then the stator can be held in a fixed position, but additional equipment and manufacturing steps are required to rotate the stator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static holding supports into dynamic rollers that can rotate. The rollers are mounted on the pallet and can freely rotate about their axes, allowing the stator to be rotated in place without requiring external lifting and repositioning equipment. This dynamic conversion enables the stator to change its rotational orientation while remaining supported by the same device.
Solution Approach 2:
The pallet is designed to perform multiple functions: it holds the stator in position, supports the stator weight, and enables stator rotation. By integrating rotating rollers into the pallet structure, the device combines holding and rotation functions into a single universal platform, eliminating the need for separate rotation equipment.
2Productivity
If manual or automated lifting and rotating arrangements are used, then the stator can be repositioned, but capital and operating expenses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the holding and rotation functions into a single integrated pallet-roller system. Instead of having separate holding devices and rotation equipment, the rollers are directly mounted on the pallet, combining both functions into one device. This reduces the number of separate equipment pieces needed and lowers both capital and operating expenses.
Solution Approach 2:
The rollers are designed to rotate freely under the stator's weight, allowing the stator to be rotated by applying minimal force. The system uses the stator's own weight and the rollers' low-friction surfaces to enable easy rotation without requiring powerful external actuators or complex automated lifting mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If the stator is removed from holding supports to rotate it, then the stator can be repositioned, but the manufacturing process becomes less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The static holding supports are replaced with dynamic rollers that remain in contact with the stator throughout the rotation process. The stator never needs to be removed from the support system - it simply rotates on the rollers, which remain engaged with the stator's outer surface throughout the entire rotation, eliminating downtime associated with removal and repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The rollers provide continuous support and enable continuous rotation of the stator. The stator can be rotated to any desired orientation while remaining continuously supported, eliminating the interruption in the manufacturing process that occurs when the stator is removed, repositioned, and reinstalled on conventional holding devices.
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
Reduces equipment costs and improves manufacturing efficiency by enabling in-place stator rotation, enhancing alignment and component installation processes.
Implementation Method 1
At least two rollers are spaced apart from each other a predetermined distance along a direction of a width of the base platform... the at least two rollers are configured to selectively i) maintain a stationary position of the stator, and ii) facilitate rotation of the stator about its longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 2
the support device includes a rotational torque generator configured to selectively engage at least one of the at least two rollers to rotationally drive the at least one roller thereby correspondingly rotating the stator
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method associated with a stator support device is provided for use in supporting a stator of an electric motor during manufacturing thereof. The stator support device includes a base platform for supporting the stator and facilitating transport of the stator during manufacturing. At least two rollers are spaced apart from each other a predetermined distance along a width of the base platform. Each of the rollers includes a frame structure securing the rollers in spaced relation to the base platform, wherein the predetermined distance is a function of an external diameter of the stator. The support device, via the rollers, is configured to receive and support the stator in spaced relation to the base platform. The rollers are configured to selectively i) maintain a stationary position of the stator, and ii) facilitate rotation of the stator about its longitudinal axis relative to the base platform.