Length-Adjustable Connecting Element With Elastic Latching Arms
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing length-adjustable assemblies with connection elements for tensile and compressive loads in the motor vehicle sector, such as spindle drives and gas springs, have complex and time-consuming manufacturing processes due to the use of snap rings and circumferential grooves.
Innovation Solution
A connecting element with elastically bendable latching arms and latching elements that can be easily mounted onto an axial end section, allowing for a stable and quick assembly by engaging with mating elements, and optionally featuring a securing element and spring element for enhanced stability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If snap rings and circumferential grooves are used to retain the connecting element, then the connection stability is improved, but the manufacturing process becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is divided into multiple latching arms (typically 3-6) that are radially distributed around the longitudinal axis. Each latching arm independently engages with the tube, distributing the retention force and providing stable connection without requiring complex snap rings or circumferential grooves. This segmentation simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a rigid retaining structure (snap ring) that requires precise fitting into grooves, the invention uses flexible latching arms that can elastically deform during assembly and then lock into position. The arms are inserted in a relaxed state, expand to engage the tube, and provide retention through their elastic memory rather than through precise geometric interlocking.
2Ease of operation
If multiple latching arms are used to improve assembly ease and holding stability, then the assembly process is simplified, but the manufacturing effort and risk of breakage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latching arms are designed as identical or similar components that perform the same function, allowing for standardized manufacturing processes. This universality simplifies production compared to creating multiple different retaining features, and the arms can be manufactured from the same material batch with consistent properties, reducing variability and breakage risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The number of latching arms is optimized within a specific range (3-6 arms) to balance assembly ease with manufacturing complexity. The arms are designed with specific geometric parameters (cross-sectional area, length, thickness) that provide sufficient elastic deformability for easy assembly while maintaining strength to prevent breakage during installation and service.
3Ease of operation
If the latching arm is made elastically deformable to enable easy latching, then the assembly process is simplified, but the risk of breakage during assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching arms are pre-designed with appropriate elastic properties and geometric dimensions that provide a cushioning effect during assembly. The material selection and cross-sectional design ensure that the arms can deform elastically under assembly loads without exceeding their elastic limit, preventing permanent deformation or breakage while still enabling easy latching operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching arms are manufactured from elastomeric materials or composite materials that combine flexibility with strength. These materials provide the necessary elastic deformability for easy assembly while maintaining sufficient toughness and fatigue resistance to prevent breakage during installation and throughout the service life of the connection element.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables a simple, quick, and stable connection under tensile and compressive loads, reducing manufacturing complexity and risk of breakage while maintaining a secure fit, with the ability to withstand typical vehicle flap drive forces.
Implementation Method 1
The connecting element comprises at least one latching arm elastically bendable outwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis in a mounting configuration of the connecting element for plugging onto the end portion
Data Source
AI summary
A length-adjustable assembly and method including a connecting element for connecting the assembly to a component so that the connection can be subjected to tensile loads and compressive loads, the connecting element being plugged along the longitudinal axis onto an axial end section with respect to the longitudinal axis of the assembly. The connecting element includes a latching arm elastically bendable outwardly with respect to the longitudinal axis in a mounting configuration of the connecting element for plugging the connecting element onto the end portion, wherein the latching arm includes a latching element, wherein the latching element to positively cooperate with a mating latching element of the end portion, the mating latching element of complementary shape to the latching element, in an operating configuration of the connecting element fitted onto the end portion along the longitudinal axis.