Crown Spring Sleeve Retention Using Dual Anti-Detachment Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crown spring connectors face issues with securing the crown spring within a metal sleeve, as current methods like laser welding and machining are complex and costly, and the crown spring is prone to sliding due to rounded steps or high machining costs.
Innovation Solution
A crown spring module with a cylindrical sleeve and anti-detachment means comprising first and second anti-detachment members that clamp the crown spring, featuring non-rounded inner sides and optional latching rings or stamped convex blocks for stable fixation, reducing the risk of detachment and simplifying the connection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the step is formed by stamping, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the rounded inside of the step makes the crown spring prone to slide out
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a non-rounded region specifically at the bottom of the step where the crown spring contacts, while the rest of the step can remain rounded for ease of manufacturing. This localized non-rounded surface prevents sliding without requiring complete machining of the entire step structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The step structure is segmented into different functional zones: an upper rounded portion for ease of manufacturing and a lower non-rounded portion for reliable fixation. This segmentation allows each zone to serve its specific purpose while combining the advantages of both stamped and machined features.
2Reliability
If the step is formed by machining, then the fixation reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of completely machining the entire step structure (excessive action), the patent applies machining only to the specific region where non-rounded surfaces are needed for fixation (partial action). This reduces manufacturing cost while maintaining the reliability benefits where most needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces local quality by providing non-rounded surfaces only at critical contact points within the step, rather than machining the entire step. This localized approach maintains fixation reliability while significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost compared to complete machining.
3Strength
If laser welding or riveting is used to connect crown spring and metal sleeve, then the connection strength is improved, but the process complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces thermal (laser welding) or mechanical fastening (riveting) systems with a purely mechanical interference fit system. The non-rounded step creates a snap-fit or friction-fit connection that achieves strong bonding without additional welding equipment, rivets, or complex assembly processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The crown spring and step structure are designed to self-assemble through interference fit, where the elastic deformation of the crown spring during installation automatically creates a secure connection. This eliminates the need for external welding equipment, riveting tools, or complex fastening mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
This patent application relates to the connector technology field, and discloses a crown spring module and a connector. The crown spring module includes a sleeve and an anti-detachment means. The sleeve is provided with a cylindrical accommodative chamber inside, wherein the accommodative chamber is used for accommodating a crown spring. The anti-detachment means is disposed within the sleeve and comprises a first anti-detachment member and a second anti-detachment member. The first anti-detachment member is disposed at an opening of the accommodative chamber, and the second anti-detachment member is disposed at one end of the accommodative chamber away from the opening. The first anti-detachment member and the second anti-detachment member can respectively reduce inner diameter at the opening of the accommodative chamber and inner diameter at the one end of the accommodative chamber away from the opening, such that the crown spring is clamped between the first anti-detachment member and the second anti-detachment member. The first and second anti-detachment members of this invention achieve fixation of the crown spring by changing inner diameter of the accommodative chamber.