Brise Ring Joining Element for Genovese Chain Pulleys

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing joining elements for chains, particularly Genovese chains, hinder motion transmission when used with pulleys due to their shape and size, limiting their adaptability in applications like automated doors and rolling shutters.

Innovation Solution

A joining element in the form of a brise ring, shaped to match the chain link, comprising overlapping oval half-rings connected by a flexible connecting portion, allowing easy attachment and maintaining motion transmission capability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional joining elements are used to join chain ends, then the chain length can be adjusted, but the joining element hinders motion transmission to pulleys due to its shape

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvechain length adjustmentVSAvoidmotion transmission to pulley

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The joining element is divided into two separate oval half-rings instead of using a single conventional link. This segmentation allows the half-rings to flex and adapt to pulley geometries while maintaining chain continuity, resolving the conflict between adjustability and operational compatibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting portion between the oval half-rings is designed to be flexible rather than rigid, enabling the joining element to dynamically adapt its shape during motion transmission. This flexibility allows the element to conform to pulley surfaces without hindering operation, while still providing secure chain end joining.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If a rigid joining element is used to maintain structural strength, then the chain integrity is preserved, but the joining element cannot adapt to different chain configurations and pulley shapes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvechain integrityVSAvoidadaptability to chain and pulley shapes

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The joining element combines rigid oval half-rings (providing local strength at connection points) with a flexible connecting portion (providing local adaptability). This local differentiation allows the element to maintain chain integrity while adapting to various configurations and pulley geometries.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The joining element functions as a composite structure combining rigid metal half-rings with a flexible connecting portion. This composite design integrates both strength and adaptability properties within a single joining element, allowing it to preserve chain integrity while conforming to different shapes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentEP3872364B1Joining element for chains

Publication Date: 2025.08.06 CAME

Figure 1A~1O
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3D

AI summary

A joining element (10) for chains, also known as "false link", to be employed when the chain is to be cut and then closed again to modify the overall length thereof. The joining element described may be applied in all those fields where chains are employed - and in greater detail, the chains of Genovese type - such as, for example in the transmission of the movement of a geared motor. The invention is particularly important in case of application in geared motors used to automate sectional doors installed at residential, condominium or industrial sites.