Adjustable Camshaft Assembly via Positioning Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for assembling adjustable camshafts face challenges in achieving a concentric arrangement of the inner shaft within the outer shaft, leading to friction issues that hinder reliable rotation and adjustment, particularly during the installation process.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of a positioning element that is inserted through specific bores in the outer shaft and inner shaft to align the inner shaft concentrically, utilizing static friction to ensure proper alignment and reduce frictional play between the shafts, allowing for a friction-free rotation and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the inner shaft is introduced into the through hole of the outer shaft without a positioning element, then the assembly process is simple, but the inner shaft becomes eccentrically arranged causing friction and jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning element is inserted into the outer shaft before the inner shaft is fully seated, establishing the correct concentric position in advance. This preliminary positioning action prevents the inner shaft from becoming eccentric during assembly, resolving the contradiction between simple assembly and reliable concentric arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning element acts as an intermediary component between the outer shaft and inner shaft. It mediates the positioning relationship by extending through the outer shaft and engaging with the inner shaft, ensuring concentric arrangement without requiring complex assembly procedures.
2Manufacturing precision
If the inner shaft is forced into concentric position without a positioning element, then concentric arrangement is achieved, but friction increases causing jamming during adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning element serves as a mediator that establishes the concentric relationship between the outer shaft and inner shaft during assembly. By providing this intermediate positioning function, the inner shaft is correctly positioned from the start, preventing friction and jamming during subsequent adjustment operations.
3Manufacturing precision
If a positioning element is inserted through the outer shaft to align the inner shaft concentrically, then concentric arrangement is achieved, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning element is a simple intermediary component that can be inserted through existing bores in the outer shaft. It provides the necessary concentric positioning function without requiring additional complex assembly steps or specialized equipment, thus achieving manufacturing precision with minimal increase in device complexity.
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 approach enables a simple, cost-effective concentric arrangement of the inner shaft within the outer shaft, minimizing friction and ensuring reliable operation of the camshaft during adjustment, thereby preventing jamming and maintaining smooth rotation.
Implementation Method 1
leveraging static friction to ensure accurate central alignment and minimize frictional contact
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and a device for assembling an adjustable camshaft which has at least one shaft segment comprising an outer shaft and an inner shaft extending concentrically through a passage bore of the outer shaft, wherein the method comprises at least the following steps: – performing pre-positioning of the inner shaft, wherein the inner shaft is inserted, eccentrically at least in sections, into the passage bore of the outer shaft, – pushing a positioning element in a pushing-in direction through a first outer-shaft bore formed in a circumferential wall of the outer shaft, through an inner-shaft bore extending orthogonally with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inner shaft, and through a second outer-shaft bore formed in a circumferential wall of the outer shaft, in such a way that the positioning element projects out of the second outer-shaft bore, – performing final positioning of the inner shaft, wherein the positioning element is moved counter to the pushing-in direction such that the inner shaft is oriented concentrically within the passage bore of the outer shaft.