Annular Flange Connection for Axial Force Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connections between transmission components with round cross-sections for supporting axial forces are complex and costly to produce and assemble, limiting their ability to withstand large axial forces over the service life of the transmission.
Innovation Solution
A positively-locking connection is formed by deforming an annular flange with stamped-out windows into an annular groove using a punching tool, allowing for a simple and cost-effective support of axial forces between components like an annular gear and gear carrier without torque transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If complex connection structures (such as multiple projections, gaps, and abutment elements) are used to support axial forces, then the connection can withstand axial forces, but production and assembly costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The annular flange is divided into multiple segments by stamped-out windows, allowing each segment to be independently deformed and engaged with the annular groove. This segmentation enables the connection to support axial forces through distributed engagement points while simplifying the overall structure compared to continuous complex connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection transitions from a rigid structural design to a deformation-based connection. The annular flange segments are elastically deformed radially inward during assembly and then lock into the annular groove, utilizing parameter changes (deformation) to create a secure connection that supports axial forces with simpler structure.
2Strength
If complex connection structures with multiple components are used, then axial forces can be supported, but assembly difficulty and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The stamped-out windows are pre-formed in the annular flange during manufacturing, preparing the structure for subsequent deformation and engagement. This preliminary action enables the flange segments to be easily deformed and locked into the annular groove during assembly, reducing assembly complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformation-based connection is designed to be self-locking, where the elastic deformation of the annular flange segments automatically secures them in the annular groove without requiring additional fastening elements or complex assembly operations. The connection serves itself by using the material's elastic properties to create and maintain the locked state.
3Reliability
If traditional connection methods are used, then production and assembly can proceed, but the connection cannot withstand very large axial forces over the service life
Solution Approach 1:
The connection utilizes the composite behavior of the annular flange material, combining elastic deformation capability with strength. The material is designed to undergo reversible elastic deformation during assembly and then maintain the deformed state under large axial loads, creating a connection that is both simple in structure and reliable in performance.
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
This solution enables the transmission to withstand large axial forces while reducing production and assembly costs, providing a robust and efficient connection between round cross-section components.
Implementation Method 1
The annular flange of the first component is then deformed radially into the annular groove of the second component by way of a punching tool extending radially from the center of the components
Data Source
AI summary
A positively-locking connection between two components of a transmission that have round cross-sections, designed to support axial forces. A first component to be connected has an annular flange with windows stamped out around its circumference. The windows enable simple deformation of the annular flange. The second component to be connected has an annular groove such that after bringing the two components together, the annular flange of the first component, when viewed axially, is positioned over the annular groove of the second component, such that the annular flange of the first component can be pressed radially into the annular groove of the second component so that segments of the annular flange radially engage the annular groove.