Design Question: Wiring & Motors

In summary: Can you use RF for the data portion of the signal?No, RF is not an option. The challenge is to run wires (signal + power) while allowing axial rotation.No, RF is not an option. The challenge is to run wires (signal + power) while allowing axial rotation.Well, I can think of at least one good way to do it. What are your thoughts? It sounds like a school project, so you need to do some research on your own and throw out some ideas here.What voltage and power level are required? What is the bandwidth and nature of the data stream?Usually things like this are done
  • #1
alemus
3
0
I am seeking help for a design solution to run wiring through a rotating shaft spun by a motor. Imagine a display mounted on the end of a ceiling fan blade - The signal and power for the display would need to come through the motor (from the within the ceiling) while the entire blade assembly is in continuous rotation. This is not the actual implementation in mind, but it plainly illustrates the design challenge.

I am guessing this problem has been solved and there are standard terms for the parts/methods for this function.

Thanks in advance for any feedback...
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
alemus said:
I am seeking help for a design solution to run wiring through a rotating shaft spun by a motor. Imagine a display mounted on the end of a ceiling fan blade - The signal and power for the display would need to come through the motor (from the within the ceiling) while the entire blade assembly is in continuous rotation. This is not the actual implementation in mind, but it plainly illustrates the design challenge.

I am guessing this problem has been solved and there are standard terms for the parts/methods for this function.

Thanks in advance for any feedback...

Can you use RF for the data portion of the signal?
 
  • #3
No, RF is not an option. The challenge is to run wires (signal + power) while allowing axial rotation.
 
  • #4
alemus said:
No, RF is not an option. The challenge is to run wires (signal + power) while allowing axial rotation.

Well, I can think of at least one good way to do it. What are your thoughts? It sounds like a school project, so you need to do some research on your own and throw out some ideas here.

What voltage and power level are required? What is the bandwidth and nature of the data stream?
 
  • #5
Usually things like this are done using slip rings.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slip_ring

Its also very common for things like torque transducers to use AC coupled coils for transmitting power, sort of like a rotating transformer.
 
  • #6
Berkeman - This is not a school project. I am a hobbyist working on a robotics project.

Topher925 - This is exactly what I was looking for. I knew there must be some standard practices for this, I'm just not versed in the terminology. THANKS!
 
  • #7
Running signal through slip-rings can get noisy, I'd look into other ways to move data.

For power, I've been wondering if one could use the brushes and armature of a regular motor -- probably with a diode bridge on the receiving end. Anyone tried that?

The rotating transformer idea sounds pretty cool, never thought of it...
 
  • #8
I agree with schip, slip rings would be noisy. However, they would be simple and would work if you have a very simple (slow), fault-tolerant communications stream.

If you need better data transfer and you have power on both sides of the moving object (which can easily be supplied by slip rings), you might try optical communications (i.e. IR rather than RF). You need to have a fairly clear line of site between the receiver and transmitter and you have to take into account that the receiver needs to pick up while the object is rotating. However, this method has the advantage that there are already a lot of devices for delivering/receiving IR signals on the market.
 
  • #9
The standard solution would be slip rings. There are two basic types; the cylindrical slip rings (can be mounted anywhere on rotating shaft) and the radial ones (mounted on either end). In both cases, the drive shaft is hollow, and the wires are inside. See one example of slip rings (2 terminal, 4 amps, 1200 RPM) at

http://www.mercotac.com/html/205.html

Bob S
 

What is the purpose of wiring and motors in a design?

The purpose of wiring and motors in a design is to provide a means of transferring electrical energy to mechanical energy. This allows the design to move or perform a specific function.

What are the key considerations when choosing wiring and motors for a design?

When choosing wiring and motors for a design, some key considerations include the power requirements of the design, the size and weight limitations, and the desired speed and torque of the design.

How do you determine the appropriate wiring size for a design?

The appropriate wiring size for a design is determined by the amount of current that will flow through the wiring. This can be calculated by using Ohm's Law, which states that current is equal to voltage divided by resistance. It is important to choose a wiring size that can handle the expected current without overheating.

What factors affect the efficiency of a design's motors?

The efficiency of a design's motors can be affected by factors such as the type of motor, the quality and condition of the motor, the design of the motor circuit, and the environment in which the motor operates. Proper maintenance and regular tune-ups can also greatly improve motor efficiency.

How can wiring and motors be protected in a design?

To protect wiring and motors in a design, it is important to use appropriate fuses or circuit breakers to prevent overloading and short circuits. Additionally, proper insulation and grounding can help prevent damage to the wiring and motors. Regular inspections and maintenance can also help identify and prevent potential issues before they become major problems.

Similar threads

  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
6
Views
297
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
13
Views
12K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
9
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
905
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
1
Views
4K
Back
Top