Coupling Assembly Anti-Rotational Bushings Torque Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling assemblies face limitations in torque density due to the need for large clearance for nut wrenches, which reduces the maximum shaft size and overall diameter, leading to inefficiencies in power transmission.
Innovation Solution
A coupling assembly design that utilizes anti-rotational bushings instead of nuts for fastening, allowing for a larger diameter and increased torque density by eliminating the need for nut clearance and enabling axial, angular, and parallel misalignment of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If nuts are used for fastening adjacent components, then the connection is secure, but the overall outer diameter of the component must be reduced to allow for wrench clearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the nut from the fastening system and replaces it with a bolt that has an integrated hexagonal head. This eliminates the need for a separate nut component and the associated wrench clearance requirement, thereby increasing the outer diameter of the coupling component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the function of the nut into the bolt head itself by using a hexagonal bolt head that can be directly engaged by a wrench. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate nut and wrench clearance, allowing for a larger outer diameter while maintaining secure fastening capability.
2Strength
If nuts are used for fastening, then the connection is secure, but the maximum shaft size and torque density are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the nut from the fastening system, the patent eliminates the space requirement that limits the maximum shaft size. This allows for larger shaft diameters and higher torque density while maintaining secure connections through the hexagonal bolt head design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fastening parameter from using nuts requiring wrench clearance to using hexagonal bolt heads that can be accessed with smaller tools. This parameter change enables larger component diameters and higher torque density while maintaining adequate connection security.
3Device complexity
If standard fasteners are used, then the assembly is simple, but alignment deviations cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic elements (spring washers and flexible discs) into the fastening system that allow for elastic deformation and adjustment. This enables the assembly to accommodate alignment deviations between components while maintaining secure fastening, bridging the gap between simple assembly and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling assembly includes a body member and at least one end member attached to the body member. At least one connection arrangement is situated between the body member and the at least one end member, respectively. The at least one connection arrangement includes a plurality of bushings. A plurality of fasteners are each respectively received by the plurality of bushings to fasten the body member to the at least one end member. Each one of the plurality of bushings are rotationally fixed about their center longitudinal axes by the at least one connection arrangement.