Bearing Cap Stud Assembly With Retention Ring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing engine assembly methods require significant clearance and auxiliary fixtures to install and torque main bearing cap studs, limiting orientation and access, and often necessitate removing the entire engine package.
Innovation Solution
A stud assembly with a retention ring that engages with the base block, allowing for easier assembly of bearing cap studs without compromising load-carrying characteristics, featuring a sleeve for cooling and hexagonal ends for secure coupling, enabling full-length stud assembly within the base block without auxiliary fixtures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a full length cross stud with fixed head or nut is used, then the stud can be installed through the base block, but enough clearance is needed next to the base block to install or retract the entire length of the stud, requiring auxiliary fixtures and limiting orientation and access
Solution Approach 1:
The stud assembly is divided into two main parts: a stud body that remains within the base block and a separate nut that is installed on the external end. This segmentation eliminates the need for auxiliary fixtures during assembly, as the stud can be installed through the base block and the nut can be independently torqued from the outside, improving ease of operation while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly method transitions from a linear insertion approach (requiring clearance along the stud length) to a two-stage process where the stud is inserted through the base block and the nut is then installed on the external end. This dimensional change in the assembly sequence eliminates the need for auxiliary fixtures and provides better access and orientation flexibility
2Ease of manufacture
If fixtures are used to hold the first crankshaft in place during installation and torquing, then the second crankshaft and main bearing cap nuts can be installed, but the entire engine package must be removed from the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The stud assembly is designed so that the stud body can be preliminarily installed through the base block before the crankshafts are fully positioned. This preliminary action allows the nuts to be installed and torqued from the external end without requiring the engine package to be removed, significantly improving productivity while maintaining ease of manufacture
Solution Approach 2:
The nut installation and torquing operation is extracted from the internal base block area and moved to the external end of the stud. This extraction eliminates the need for auxiliary fixtures and allows the entire assembly process to be completed with the engine package remaining in the vehicle, improving both ease of manufacture and productivity
3Ease of operation
If clearance is provided next to the base block for stud installation, then the stud can be installed and retracted, but the orientation and access to service the engine are limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of installing the entire stud through clearance space next to the base block, the assembly approach is inverted: the stud is installed through the base block and the nut is then installed on the external end. This inversion eliminates the need for large clearance spaces, improving service access while maintaining the ability to install and service the engine
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
Facilitates engine assembly with improved access and orientation, maintaining load-carrying integrity and reducing the need for auxiliary fixtures, allowing for efficient installation and operation of the engine components.
Implementation Method 1
the cooling annulus configured to allow coolant flow therethrough
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a stud assembly insertable throughout a base block. The stud assembly includes a retention ring to engage with the base block and provide ease in assembly of the bearing cap stud assembly in an engine configuration without compromising load carrying characteristics of the design.