Engine Accessory Mount with Segmented Slots for Belt Tensioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current engine accessory mount designs face issues with proper belt tensioning due to the straight tension bolt not aligning with the arcuate travel path of the radial slot, leading to binding problems that prevent proper belt tensioning.
Innovation Solution
The engine accessory mount features two parallel slots in the housing to receive fasteners, with a tensioner bolt located between them, extending parallel to the belt load direction to apply tension uniformly, allowing for easy installation and maintaining belt tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a straight tension bolt is used with a radial slot design, then the accessory housing can be pivoted about a pin, but the straight tension bolt cannot follow the arcuate travel path of the radial slot, causing binding issues that prevent proper belt tensioning
Solution Approach 1:
The single radial slot is segmented into two separate slots: a first radial slot and a second radial slot. The tension bolt is divided into two separate bolt portions, with each portion received by a respective slot. This segmentation allows each bolt portion to independently follow the arcuate travel path of its slot without binding, while collectively providing the necessary tensioning force for proper belt tensioning.
2Ease of manufacture
If a single radial slot is used for the tension bolt, then the structure is simpler, but the straight tension bolt binds against the arcuate slot path, preventing proper installation
Solution Approach 1:
The single radial slot is segmented into two separate slots: a first radial slot and a second radial slot. The tension bolt is divided into two separate bolt portions, with each portion received by a respective slot. This segmentation allows each bolt portion to independently follow the arcuate travel path of its slot without binding, while collectively providing the necessary tensioning force for proper belt tensioning.
Data Source
AI summary
An engine includes an engine structure defining a plurality of cylinders. A crankshaft is rotatably mounted to the engine structure and a plurality of pistons are each disposed in a corresponding one of the plurality of cylinders and drivingly connected to the crankshaft. A drive pulley is drivingly connected to the crankshaft. An accessory is mounted to the engine structure and includes a driven pulley connected to the drive pulley by a belt. The belt has a load direction extending through an axis of rotation of the drive pulley and the driven pulley. The accessory includes a housing having two slots extending generally parallel to the load direction of the belt and each receiving a fastener therein. A tensioner bolt is located between the two slots and extends generally parallel to the load direction to apply a tension force on the housing in the load direction.