Connecting Pin Mounting Tool Using Screw-Driven Linear Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for mounting and dismounting connecting pins in crane structures require dedicated tools and hydraulic or pneumatic systems, which are cumbersome, pose safety risks, and limit usability due to hose-related issues.
Innovation Solution
A mounting/dismounting device that uses a screwdriver with a mounting/dismounting rod, nut, and bushing, configured for both mounting and dismounting operations, allowing for safe and efficient use with a commercial screwdriver, eliminating the need for specialized tools and hoses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder system is used for mounting/dismounting connecting pins, then the mounting/dismounting operation can be automated, but the device complexity increases and requires dedicated tools with hoses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder system with a purely mechanical screwdriver-based system. The mounting/dismounting device uses a rod with threaded distal portion that engages with a nut, converting rotational motion from the screwdriver into linear motion to push the connecting pin through the frame elements. This eliminates complex hydraulic/pneumatic systems while achieving automated-like operation through simple mechanical advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal mounting/dismounting device that can perform both mounting and dismounting operations with the same tool system. The device includes a rod, base with nut, and bushing that can be configured for either mounting (pushing pin through elements) or dismounting (extracting pin from elements) by simply reversing the screwdriver rotation direction, eliminating the need for separate dedicated tools.
2Power
If hydraulic or pneumatic hoses are used to connect the actuator to the tool, then power transmission is efficient, but the range of use is limited and safety risks increase due to hoses liable to get stuck
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates hydraulic or pneumatic hoses by replacing them with a direct mechanical connection system. The screwdriver directly engages with the rod head, transmitting power through rigid mechanical contact rather than flexible hoses. This allows the fitter to carry out screwing/unscrewing operations in any position without hose constraints, significantly increasing adaptability and range of use while maintaining safety.
3Ease of operation
If dedicated tools specially designed for mounting/dismounting connecting pins are used, then the operation can be performed, but the cost increases and usability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a mounting/dismounting device that uses a standard commercial screwdriver as the actuator, which is already widely available and familiar to fitters. The specialized components (rod with threaded portion, base with nut, bushing) are simple mechanical parts that can be manufactured economically. This combination achieves ease of operation while avoiding the high costs associated with dedicated automated hydraulic/pneumatic tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent leverages the existing knowledge and skills of fitters who are already trained to use screwdrivers for numerous screwing/unscrewing operations. By building the mounting/dismounting device around this familiar tool, the system allows fitters to apply their existing expertise without requiring specialized training for new dedicated tools, thereby improving ease of operation while reducing overall system cost.
4Ease of operation
If conventional sledgehammer method is used to eject connecting pins, then the dismounting operation is simple, but the precision and control are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the blunt sledgehammer impact method with a controlled mechanical screwing system. The threaded rod engages with the nut, and as the screwdriver rotates the rod, the nut moves linearly along the rod axis with precise, controlled motion. This gradually pushes or extracts the connecting pin through the frame elements, providing excellent precision and control compared to the uncontrolled impact of a sledgehammer, while remaining operationally simple.
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
Facilitates secure and economical mounting and dismounting of connecting pins, enhancing safety by using a widely available screwdriver and avoiding cable or hose problems, thus improving operational efficiency and reducing risks.
Implementation Method 1
a threaded distal portion which terminates in a free end... the threaded distal portion being provided to be screwed into the nut aligned on the longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 2
a bushing which is removable and mounted freely in translation along the longitudinal axis around the rod body between the nut and the proximal stop
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting/dismounting device for mounting/dismounting a connecting pin used for an end-to-end assembly of two frame elements includes a mounting/dismounting rod having a longitudinal axis, a head adapted to cooperate with a screwdriver, and a rod body having a proximal portion and a threaded distal portion. The device also includes a base supporting a nut and having an abutment portion shaped to bear on one of the two frame elements, the threaded distal portion being provided to be screwed into the nut, a proximal stop mounted freely in rotation on the proximal portion of the rod body, and a bushing mounted around the rod body between the nut and the proximal stop.