Can I desgn a rotating disc without using a centre shaft

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the feasibility of designing a rotating disc with a central hole that does not utilize a traditional center shaft for rotation. Participants explore various mechanisms for supporting the disc while allowing it to spin, considering both horizontal and vertical orientations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the possibility of spinning a disc with a central hole without a center shaft and seeks recommendations for a supporting mechanism.
  • Another participant suggests that a rim attached to the disc, either on the inside or outside, could slide through a supporting structure as a potential solution.
  • A later reply inquires about supporting the disc while it spins horizontally, prompting further exploration of support mechanisms.
  • One suggestion involves using three or more rollers positioned around the rim, with some rollers driven to provide the necessary spin.
  • A participant describes a design concept involving multiple layers of a ride, questioning how to spin different layers in opposite directions and the feasibility of using a large planetary gear suspended in mid-air for rotation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying ideas and mechanisms for achieving the goal, indicating that multiple competing views remain without a consensus on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Some limitations include the dependence on specific designs and the unresolved nature of how to implement certain mechanisms, such as the planetary gear system.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in mechanical design, engineering concepts related to rotational dynamics, or innovative support mechanisms for rotating systems may find this discussion relevant.

jeredane
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Is it possbile to spin a disc that has a hole in the centre like normal DVDs but without using a rotating centre shaft that is passing through the hole?

The spining disc has to be supported too by a structure. Is there any mechanism to recommend?
 
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Yes, it is possible. There are a number of ways to do this, but it all comes down to a rim attached to either the inside of the hole or the outside of the wheel. This rim slides through the supporting structure.

Some practical examples, demonstrated on bicycle wheels:
http://www.designboom.com/weblog/cat/8/view/11207/hubless-spokeless-bicycle-wheel-compilation.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Hey.. THanks for the reply!

How about if the disc is being spin horizontally? is there anyway of supporting the disc without the centre shaft?
 
Three or more rollers around the rim with one or more driven to provide spin.
 
The following picture is a ride that i have design. the outer and the inner layers spin in the same direction and the middle layer spin in the opposite direction. how can i spin the outer layer of the ride and the middle layer of the ride? where can i place the driver?

If i were to use a planetary gear that is very big is it possible? Is there anyway to supend the gears in mid air and let it rotate?
 

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  • Ride.jpg
    Ride.jpg
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