Chain Connecting Link With Elastomeric Pin Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chain connecting links, such as hammer locks, require a hammer to assemble and disassemble, which can be difficult in inaccessible locations and often results in pin bending.
Innovation Solution
A chain connecting link design featuring two link halves with aligned holes, a cylindrical pin with a narrowed region, and an elastomeric retaining piece that securely holds the pin in place without the need for a hammer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hammer and drift are used to drive the pin through the spring, then the pin can be assembled into the link, but the pin may become bent and several hard blows are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical hammer-and-drift assembly system with a spring-loaded pin mechanism. The pin is propelled through the link body by a compressed spring, eliminating the need for external hammering forces that cause pin bending and damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly mechanism is self-contained within the link body. The compressed spring automatically propels the pin into position when the link halves are joined, making the assembly process self-serviceing without requiring external tools or operators to apply force.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the link is located in an inaccessible location, then the link can be used in applications like vehicle safety hitches, but it becomes very difficult to use a hammer to strike clean blows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the external hammering mechanism with an internal spring-loaded pin system. This substitution allows assembly in inaccessible locations where hammer access is limited or impossible, as the assembly force is generated internally within the link structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is pre-compressed during manufacturing to store potential energy. When assembly is required, this pre-stored energy automatically propels the pin into position, eliminating the need for on-site hammering and making the link suitable for pre-installed or inaccessible applications.
3Productivity
If multiple hard blows are required to assemble the link, then the pin can be forced through the spring, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the multi-stroke hammering process with a single spring-propelled pin insertion. The compressed spring provides the necessary force in one action, dramatically reducing assembly time and eliminating the complexity of coordinating multiple hammer blows.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is pre-compressed during manufacturing to store the energy required for pin insertion. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming on-site assembly operations, as the assembly force is already prepared and stored in the link structure.
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
The link can be assembled and disassembled by hand without tools, eliminating the risk of pin bending and facilitating use in hard-to-reach locations while maintaining secure assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a retaining piece formed from an elastomeric material; the retaining piece includes an aperture which locates about the narrowed region of the pin to retain the pin in place
Data Source
AI summary
A chain connecting link including: two link halves, each link half including a series of aligned holes; a cylindrical pin which is arranged to fit inside the holes of the link halves; the pin includes a narrowed region; a retaining piece formed from an elastomeric material; the retaining piece includes an aperture which locates about the narrowed region of the pin to retain the pin in place.