Motor-Mounted Winch Contactor Layout for Protected Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing winch systems face increased installation and maintenance times due to numerous wired electrical connections between the motor, contactor assembly, and power source, which are also prone to degradation from harsh weather conditions and tangling.
Innovation Solution
A motor assembly with a contactor assembly integrated around and in face-sharing contact with the motor, reducing the length and number of electrical connections, and positioning all components within a shared housing or drum support space, thereby minimizing external connections and exposure to elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the contactor assembly is mounted to an exterior surface of the motor housing, then the electrical connections between components can be established, but the installation time increases and the wires are exposed to harsh weather conditions causing degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The contactor assembly is integrated within the motor housing rather than mounted externally, merging two separate components into a unified assembly. This reduces the number of external wire connections needed and protects electrical connections from environmental exposure, thereby improving reliability while simplifying installation
2Ease of operation
If multiple wires are used to electrically couple the motor to the contactor assembly and power source, then electrical connections can be established, but the wires become tangled and frayed leading to degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The contactor assembly is positioned inside the motor housing with direct electrical coupling to the motor, merging the electrical connection path into a protected internal route. This eliminates external wire exposure to tangling and fraying, improving connection durability while maintaining ease of operation
3Volume of moving object
If the contactor assembly is positioned outside the motor housing, then space for motor operation is maximized, but the packaging space increases and electrical connections are exposed to elements
Solution Approach 1:
The contactor assembly is nested within the motor housing space, utilizing the existing internal volume of the motor assembly. This nesting approach accommodates the contactor without increasing the overall packaging footprint, while simultaneously protecting electrical connections from environmental exposure
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for a winch including a motor and a contactor assembly coupled around the motor. In one example, the contactor assembly includes an outer casing with a planar, inner end wall. Additionally, the contactor assembly includes a plurality of angled inner surfaces disposed adjacent to the cylindrical housing of the motor.