Theoretical question: I was told by an auto mechanic friend that replacing a clockspring in the steering wheel of a car with concentric conductive rings (separate ring for each component powered such as horn, airbag, etc.) on the steering column-side and contacts on the wheel assembly-side (thus replicating what the CS does now) would not be feasible. He mentioned this is because of the resistance the copper (or whatever material used) would pose too large of an impedance to DC current for it to be used.
Is this true, and if so, why? I understand current flow, impedance, and so forth, but I'm having a hard time conceptualizing why it would be insufficient.
For those that are wondering, I'm not asking because I plan to do this, but rather I was trying to envision a simpler solution to a complex clockspring that could be used in this application.
Best Answer
In the context of this question, the term Clock Spring refers to a loop of wire which connects electronics in the steering wheel to the rest of the car. Clock Spring is viable, because steering wheel has a limited range of rotation. The loop might look like a spiral spring found in clocks, ergo the name. It's not a mechanical spring used for exerting force.
Clock Spring vs. Slip Ring. Slip rings can be found in places where range of rotation is not limited (e.g. helicopter rotor). Slip rings are subject to condensation, contamination, corrosion, vibration. A Slip Ring can be less reliable than a loop of wire. (Air bag is connected through Clock Spring.) A Slip Ring would be more costly too.