Bowden Cable Locking Device for Play-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for adjusting and fixing Bowden cables during assembly are cumbersome and require multiple steps, leading to potential delays and increased wear due to excessive play and stress, especially in systems with limited access.
Innovation Solution
A Bowden cable with a locking device that allows for adjustment and fixation through a single translational movement, utilizing a locking device with sawtooth-shaped latching teeth and hooks, and a separate connecting device for easy assembly and high connection strength, enabling quick and play-free assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional threaded connections or clamp connections are used to adjust and fix the Bowden cable, then the Bowden cable can be adjusted and fixed, but the assembly process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming with multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is segmented into distinct functional elements: a locking element with latching teeth, a locking profile with corresponding latching features, and a guide structure. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling simple unidirectional movement for adjustment while automatic locking occurs through the interaction of segmented parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is designed to automatically lock itself through the interaction between the locking element's latching teeth and the locking profile's latching features. When the Bowden cable is moved in the tensioning direction, the latching teeth automatically engage with the locking profile, eliminating the need for manual locking operations or additional tools.
2Ease of manufacture
If assembly clearance is provided for form-fitting connections like hooks or nipples, then connections can be created, but assembly play is created that must be eliminated by additional adjustment steps
Solution Approach 1:
The latching teeth and latching features are designed with asymmetric geometries that permit movement in only one direction (the tensioning direction). The locking element can move freely along the guide in the tensioning direction to accommodate assembly clearance, but the asymmetric latching features prevent movement in the opposite direction, automatically eliminating assembly play.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device transitions from a static connection to a dynamic system where the locking element can move along the guide during assembly, then automatically locks in place once the Bowden cable reaches its correct position. This dynamic behavior allows the system to accommodate assembly variations while maintaining precise final positioning.
3Manufacturing precision
If the Bowden cable core is made too short to reduce play, then the Bowden cable fits better, but the service life is reduced due to excessive stresses and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the Bowden cable and the connection parts. Instead of relying on precise length matching or tight tolerances in the cable itself, the locking device mediates the connection by providing a controlled engagement point that accommodates length variations while preventing excessive stresses and wear on the cable.
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple adjustment steps are used to reduce Bowden cable play to specified tolerance, then the Bowden cable is properly adjusted, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: it provides the guide structure for the Bowden cable, the locking mechanism through latching teeth and profile, and the automatic positioning feature. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate adjustment and locking steps, achieving precise cable positioning through a single unidirectional movement.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a Bowden cable (1), particularly for a motor vehicle lock with a locking mechanism, comprising a rotary latch and at least one pawl for locking said rotary latch in a main latching position and a pre-latching position, preferably with a closing aid for moving said rotary latch from the pre-latching position into the main latching position. The Bowden cable (1) comprises a securing device (4) designed such that said Bowden cable (1) can be adjusted and fixed in place by means of a translational movement, or that this adjustment can be fixed by deformation of at least one deformation tab (22). This allows said Bowden cable (1) to be mounted in a particularly simple manner.