Segmented Chain Link Connector with Pivoting Section
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting elements for tire chains are cumbersome to assemble due to the need to angle and tilt chain links, requiring significant shortening of the chain strands, which complicates the insertion process, especially under tension.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a pivoting section between the holding and guide sections with a peripheral surface offset, allowing for easier swiveling-in of chain links with reduced angular deviation from the load plane, thus simplifying assembly and reducing the required chain length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the connecting element uses traditional retaining bows with guide sections, then the chain links can be securely held, but the assembly process becomes cumbersome requiring significant chain shortening and angulation
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining bow is segmented into three distinct sections: a guide section with insertion slot, a pivoting section with reduced cross-section and offset peripheral surface, and a holding section with enlarged cross-section. This segmentation allows the chain link to be guided in, pivoted easily through the reduced cross-section area, and then securely held in the enlarged holding section, resolving the contradiction between secure holding and easy assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivoting section introduces a dimensional change by offsetting the peripheral surface in the direction of the receiving opening, creating a reduced cross-section area that provides additional spatial dimension for the chain link to pivot through. This dimensional transition zone allows the chain link to rotate from the guide section to the holding section without requiring excessive chain shortening or angulation.
2Reliability
If the holding bend has large cross-section to accommodate chain links, then the chain links can be securely retained, but the insertion becomes difficult without tilting the chain link
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining bow exhibits local quality variation along its length: the guide section has a cross-section matched to the insertion slot for easy entry, the pivoting section has a reduced cross-section with offset peripheral surface to facilitate rotation, and the holding section has an enlarged cross-section for secure retention. This localized differentiation of cross-sectional properties allows each section to perform its specific function optimally.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivoting section with reduced cross-section and offset peripheral surface creates a dynamic transition zone that allows the chain link to rotate and change orientation during insertion. This dynamic capability enables the chain link to transition from the guide section to the holding section without requiring the entire chain to be tilted or shortened significantly.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the chain strand is kept short to ensure secure tire chain holding, then the tire chain remains stable, but the assembly of connecting elements becomes difficult under tension
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented retaining bow design allows assembly to proceed with minimal chain manipulation. The guide section receives the chain link end, the pivoting section with reduced cross-section allows easy rotation even under slight tension, and the holding section secures the link. This segmentation enables connecting element assembly without requiring significant chain shortening or displacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivoting section changes the cross-sectional parameter of the retaining bow, creating a reduced area with offset peripheral surface that lowers the friction and geometric constraints during insertion. This parameter change allows the chain link to be inserted and rotated with minimal force and displacement, enabling assembly even when the chain strand is kept short for tire chain stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The connecting element (1) has holding struts (2, 3) that define a retention hole (4) and include guide sections (3a, 4a) and holding sections (2b, 3b). The guide sections are arranged adjacent to an insertion slot (5) that opens out in the hole. The holding sections define the hole in or against a load direction (F). One of the struts includes a pivoting section (3c) arranged between the holding and guide sections. A peripheral surface (U) of the connection element is displaced in a direction of the hole in an area of the pivoting section.