Integrated Chain Guide Assembly With Loose-Fit Pivot Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing chain guide mechanisms for engine timing systems face inefficiencies during assembly and maintenance due to a large number of components and a cumbersome connection process between the pivoting and fixed chain guides, leading to increased complexity and time consumption.
Innovation Solution
A simplified chain guide mechanism that integrates all components on a frame, featuring a pivoting chain guide with a cylindrical mounting boss for easy attachment and a frame with a pivoting chain guide holding part allowing for a loose fit, reducing the need for a separate joint member and simplifying the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a separate joint member is used to connect the fixed chain guide and pivoting chain guide, then the connection is achieved, but the number of components increases and assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the joint member with the fixed chain guide by forming the arm members integrally with the guide shoe of the fixed chain guide. This eliminates the need for a separate joint member, reducing the total component count while maintaining the connection function between the fixed and pivoting chain guides.
2Reliability
If engaging protrusions and holes are used to connect the joint member with arm members, then the connection is achieved, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the joint member functionality into the fixed chain guide structure, the patent eliminates the complex multi-step engagement process involving separate protrusions and holes. The integral design allows for simpler assembly while maintaining reliable connection between components.
3Reliability
If multiple separate components are assembled together, then the chain guide mechanism is complete, but the work efficiency during assembly and maintenance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple components (fixed chain guide, joint member, and arm members) into an integrated structure where the joint member is formed as one piece with the fixed chain guide. This reduction in component count directly improves work efficiency during both assembly and maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
While merging components, the patent maintains functional segmentation by keeping the pivoting chain guide as a separate movable component that can still be independently adjusted, while the fixed chain guide and its integrated joint member remain as a unified structural element.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the pivoting chain guide is freely movable, then it can perform its tensioning function, but it becomes difficult to install other components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a retaining structure into the fixed chain guide that preliminarily positions and secures the pivoting chain guide during assembly. This retaining structure guides the installation process and prevents the pivoting chain guide from moving excessively, making it easier to install other components while preserving its necessary pivoting functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An object of the present invention is to provide a chain guide mechanism that can readily integrate all the components in a simple structure and enhance work efficiency during assembly or maintenance. The chain guide mechanism of the present invention is configured to be able to integrally support, on a frame, components including a plurality of sprockets, a chain, a fixed chain guide, and a pivoting chain guide. The frame includes a pivoting chain guide holding part that holds a mounting boss of the pivoting chain guide in a state of a loose fit. The pivoting chain guide holding part is configured to allow the mounting boss to be fitted therethrough from one side.