Switch Cabinet Oscillation Damper for Multi-Directional Seismic Damping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing oscillation dampers for switch cabinets are insufficiently adaptable to different natural oscillation modes in various spatial directions, leading to inadequate seismic and similar oscillation excitation damping, and require regular maintenance due to the use of viscous dampers.
Innovation Solution
A passive oscillation damper with a central oscillating mass capable of movement in both directions and peripheral oscillating masses that can oscillate independently in specific directions, utilizing spring elements and friction-based dampers for effective damping without the need for viscous materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single oscillation damper with fixed spring stiffness and damping constants is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot effectively adapt to different natural oscillation modes in longitudinal and transverse directions
Solution Approach 1:
The oscillation damper is divided into multiple independent oscillation units, each with its own oscillating mass and spring elements. Each unit can be independently configured with different spring stiffness and damping constants to target specific oscillation modes in different directions, allowing the overall system to adapt to multiple natural frequencies without requiring a completely different damper design for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The oscillation damper incorporates adjustable spring elements and damping components that allow the natural frequency of each oscillation unit to be tuned. By adjusting the spring stiffness and damping constants of individual units, the system can dynamically adapt to different oscillation modes and natural frequencies of the protected object, transforming a static single-frequency damper into a multi-frequency adaptable system.
2Reliability
If viscous oscillation dampers are used to achieve damping, then damping effect is achieved, but regular inspection and maintenance are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces viscous dampers (which use fluid viscosity for damping and require maintenance) with dry friction-based damping mechanisms. The friction elements provide consistent damping forces through solid friction between contact surfaces, eliminating the need for fluid seals, viscosity management, and regular maintenance while maintaining reliable damping effects throughout the service life of the damper.
3Adaptability or versatility
If two separate oscillation dampers are arranged to cover both longitudinal and transverse directions, then comprehensive damping coverage is achieved, but total weight and space requirement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple oscillation units with different orientations into a single integrated oscillation damper assembly. The first oscillation unit with its oscillating mass is configured to damp oscillations in the longitudinal direction, while the second oscillation unit with its oscillating mass is configured to damp oscillations in the transverse direction. Both units share common mounting structures and can be positioned at different locations on the protected object, achieving comprehensive multi-directional damping coverage while minimizing total weight and space compared to using two completely separate damper systems.
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 solution allows for flexible adaptation to different natural frequencies in both directions with a reduced total weight and space requirement, providing effective seismic and oscillation damping while being maintenance-free due to the use of dry friction-based dampers.
Implementation Method 1
spring elements, which enable a damped oscillation of the oscillating mass relative to the object to be protected
Implementation Method 2
at least one peripheral oscillating mass is mounted on the central oscillating mass so as to be slidable in the longitudinal direction
Implementation Method 3
a central oscillating mass which is mounted so as to be able to oscillate in the longitudinal and transverse direction
Data Source
AI summary
A passive oscillation damper (8), in particular for a switch cabinet (2), includes a supporting structure (12) having a longitudinal direction (y) and a transverse direction (x) and with a central oscillating mass (14) mounted by means of spring elements (20, 22, 24, 26) so as to be able to oscillate in the longitudinal direction (y) and in the transverse direction (x). At least one peripheral oscillating mass (40, 42) is mounted on the central oscillating mass (14) so as to be slidable in the longitudinal direction (y) and to be movable relative to the central oscillating mass (14). At least one peripheral oscillating mass (44, 46) is mounted on the central oscillating mass (14) so as to be slidable in the transverse direction (x) and to be movable relative to central oscillating mass (14).