Stabilising an ophthalmic unit with a backlash-free electromagnetic tooth brake

Custom solution for the biomedical sector

At a glance
  • Industry MedTech
  • Requirement Improve rotating table stability
  • Solution Custom electromagnetic brake
  • Benefit Simplified machine design

Application overview

Application
Ophthalmic unit
Customer type
Manufacturer of ophthalmic equipment and instruments
Scenario
Intermittent duty

The design challenge

The main challenge was to improve the stability of the multi-position rotating table supporting the ophthalmic diagnostic instruments. During the examination, the pressure applied by the patient to the instruments could cause slight movements or vibrations, affecting the accuracy of the visual measurements and, in some cases, making it necessary to repeat the examination. The existing locking system was also bulky, consisting of large electromagnets and numerous mechanical components, increasing assembly time, design complexity and production costs.

Summary
Before
  • Large electromagnets
  • High number of mechanical components
  • Sub-optimal locking performance
Objective
  • Improved diagnostic accuracy
  • Reduced design complexity

The Telcomec custom electromagnetic brake solution

Working closely with the customer, Telcomec developed a backlash-free electromagnetic face-tooth brake designed to ensure stable locking of the multi-position rotating table throughout the examination.

When the electromagnetic coil is energised, the magnetic field pulls the toothed plate towards the brake body, engaging the face teeth and locking the table in position. To rotate the table and move to the next instrument, the power supply is switched off: the release spring disc disengages the toothed plate, allowing the table to rotate freely. The brake is electrically operated by means of the remote control used by the clinician.

In practice
  • 1 electromagnetic coil;
  • 1 brake body with face teeth;
  • 1 toothed plate with release spring disc;
  • Guaranteed holding torque: 200 Nm.

How it works in the application

  • Function Locking / unlocking
  • Operating mode Pulse-operated
  • Cycle Frequent engagement / disengagement
  • Operating conditions Intermittent duty, high torque
  • Key feature Zero backlash
  • Toothing Triangular

Benefits for the machine manufacturer

Double locking performance
Greater table stability improves ease of use for the clinician while increasing the machine’s perceived value on the market.
Reduced costs
Simple fastening arrangements reduce assembly time, while improved reliability minimises maintenance requirements, increasing overall profitability.

Similar applications

Typical industries
Medical and diagnostic equipment Robotics and material handling

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