Clamp Ring Transmission Housing for Reusable Friction Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing transmission systems lack a simple and non-destructive method for assembling multi-stage transmissions, as current connections are often complex and not reusable.

Innovation Solution

A transmission system utilizing a clamp ring with a conical surface for friction locking between two housing parts, where the clamp ring is expanded by a clamping screw to create a radial pressure contact, allowing for a reusable and uncomplicated assembly of multiple gear stages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If traditional connection methods are used for assembling multi-stage transmissions, then the connection is secure, but the assembly process becomes complex and the connection is not reusable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidconnection security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The transmission housing is divided into multiple separable parts (first housing part and second housing part) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. The clamp ring acts as a separate segmentation element that enables reversible connection between housing parts, allowing for simple assembly and disassembly while maintaining secure connection during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp ring utilizes elastic deformation as a parameter change mechanism. When the clamping screw is tightened, the clamp ring elastically deforms to expand radially, creating friction pressure against the housing parts. This parameter change (from undeformed to deformed state) enables the transition from easy assembly to secure connection, and the elastic nature allows for reversible operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If a clamp ring is expanded to create friction-locked connection, then a reusable connection is achieved, but the structural complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereusabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clamp ring transitions from a static component to a dynamic one that can change its radial dimensions. The conical surface geometry enables the clamp ring to dynamically adjust its expansion state based on the clamping force applied, allowing it to adapt between assembled and disassembled states while maintaining structural simplicity through the elegant conical geometry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp ring serves as an intermediary element between the first and second housing parts. Rather than directly connecting the housing parts, the clamp ring mediates the connection through friction-based radial pressure, enabling reversible and reusable connection while keeping the overall structure simple and modular.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Force

If axial pressure is applied to expand the clamp ring, then friction-locked connection is achieved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveradial pressureVSAvoidcontact surface precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The conical surface geometry replaces flat contact surfaces with curved surfaces. This curvature allows for self-aligning contact between the clamp ring and housing parts, reducing the sensitivity to manufacturing tolerances. The conical shape distributes the axial clamping force uniformly across the contact area, achieving the required radial pressure while being more tolerant of manufacturing variations compared to flat surface contacts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

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

Enables the assembly of multi-stage transmissions with a simple, friction-locked connection that is non-destructive and reusable, reducing production complexity and enhancing the integration of geared motors with rotor shafts.

Implementation Method 1

first housing part and a second housing part connected at least by friction locking with the aid of a clamp ring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

the threaded section of a clamping screw is screwed into an axially aligned threaded bore of a clamping flange, so that the clamping flange is axially pulled in the direction of the first housing part and thus exerts pressure on the clamp ring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 3

the clamp ring has a conical surface by which the clamp ring rests against the first housing part in a planar manner

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS11137058B2Transmission including a first housing part and a second housing part
Publication Date: 2021.10.05 SEW EURODRIVE GMBH & CO KG
  • US11137058B2 patent drawing
  • US11137058B2 patent drawing
  • US11137058B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A transmission includes a first housing part and a second housing part connected at least by a friction-locked connection with the aid of a clamp ring.