Connector Assembly Shank With Reciprocating Inner Loop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies for dynamically connecting displaceable elements are often complex, expensive, and impractical, lacking simplicity and flexibility for various applications.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly featuring a shank with inner and outer abutments, a pivotally mountable outer end, and compression springs that maintain tension across the inner loop, allowing for adjustable and resilient connection of displaceable members, such as pivotally connected arms, while acting as a shock absorber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional connector assemblies are used to connect displaceable elements, then connection reliability is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a resilient body with inner and outer loops, compression springs for tension maintenance, and abutments for positioning. Each segment performs a specific function, allowing the overall system to achieve reliable connection through modular, manageable components rather than a monolithic complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector employs a resilient body that can dynamically adjust its shape and position in response to loads and displacements. The inner loop moves reciprocally along the shank, and the compression springs dynamically maintain tension, allowing the connector to adapt to varying operational conditions while maintaining reliable connection.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional connector assemblies are used to connect displaceable elements, then connection stability is achieved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient body integrates multiple functions into a single component: the inner loop for engagement, the outer loop for pivotal mounting, and the intermediate portions for structural integrity. This merging reduces the number of separate parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, improving ease of manufacture while maintaining connection stability through the unified resilient structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector allows for parameter adjustments through the compression springs, which can be selected with different strengths to achieve desired tension levels. The abutments can be positioned at different locations along the shank to adjust the range of motion and operational characteristics, enabling flexible manufacturing for various application requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable tension is implemented in the connector, then adaptability to various applications is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector achieves adaptability through parameter changes in the compression springs, which can be selected with different strengths to suit various applications. The abutments can be positioned at different locations along the shank to adjust operational parameters. This approach provides versatility without requiring multiple different connector designs, managing complexity through standardized components with variable parameters.
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 connector assembly provides a simple, efficient, and flexible means to connect and stabilize displaceable members, effectively absorbing shocks and maintaining contact with the ground, while allowing for adjustable tension and resistance to movement.
Implementation Method 1
First and second compression springs encircle the shank between the inner loop of the connector and the inner abutment. The first compression spring is captured between and is tensioned against the inner loop and the second compression spring, the second compression spring is captured between and is tensioned against the first compression spring and the inner abutment. The first and second compression springs keep tension on the inner loop urging the inner loop toward the outer abutment.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly includes a shank having an inner abutment proximate to an inner extremity, and an outer abutment proximate to an outer extremity. A connector includes an inner loop that encircles the shank between the inner abutment and the outer abutment and that is movable reciprocally along the shank, a first portion that extends outwardly from the inner loop to a second portion that extends from the first portion past the outer extremity and the abutment to a third portion that extends inwardly and forwardly from the second portion to a pivotally mountable outer loop. Tensioned compression springs encircle the shank between the inner abutment and the inner loop, and act between the inner abutment and the inner loop urging the inner loop toward the outer abutment.