Curved Chain Connector for Weld-Free Traction Chain Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing traction chains are laborious and difficult to manufacture and assemble, require welding to connect link chains, and are challenging to mount on a tire.
Innovation Solution
A connecting element with a base portion and curved portions that allows link chains to be connected without welding, featuring a center hole and hook-like curved elements for easy attachment and detachment, manufactured using techniques like casting, forging, or 3D printing, facilitating quick assembly and mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welding is used to connect link chains, then the connection strength is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the welding process (thermal/chemical joining) with a mechanical interlocking system. The connecting element features a base portion with curved portions that create hooks or loops, which mechanically interlock with link chains through insertion and engagement. This mechanical substitution eliminates welding complexity while maintaining connection strength through the interlocking geometry of the curved portions and link chain interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the connection method from permanent welding to reversible mechanical engagement. The curved portions are designed with specific geometric parameters (curvature radius, thickness, spacing) that enable the link chains to be inserted, engaged, and potentially detached. This parameter optimization allows strong mechanical connection without the complexity of welding procedures, achieving both strength and ease of manufacture.
2Reliability
If welding is used to connect link chains, then the connection reliability is improved, but the assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is pre-manufactured with its curved portions (hooks/loops) already formed in the base portion. This preliminary action means that during assembly, no additional forming or joining operations are needed - the link chains simply need to be inserted and engaged with the pre-formed curved portions. This eliminates the time-consuming welding process while maintaining reliable mechanical connection through the pre-designed interlocking geometry.
3Strength
If traditional connecting elements are used, then the structural strength is maintained, but the ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is designed as a separate, standalone component with a base portion and distinct curved portions, rather than being an integrated welded assembly. This segmentation allows the connecting element to be manufactured independently using casting, forging, or 3D printing, simplifying the manufacturing process. The segmented design maintains structural strength through the interlocking mechanism while dramatically improving ease of manufacture compared to welded assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs curved portions with smooth, rounded geometries extending from the base portion. These curved (rather than sharp or angular) shapes are more amenable to manufacturing processes like casting and forging, as they avoid stress concentration points and facilitate material flow during forming. The curvature also enhances the mechanical interlocking function while simplifying manufacturing, directly improving ease of manufacture without compromising structural strength.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a connecting element for connecting link chains. The connecting element comprises a base portion defining a centre hole, and a plurality of curved portions extending from the base portion, to which curved portions ends of link chains—can be releasably connected. In the connecting element, each of the plurality of curved portions is curved towards the centre hole. The invention also relates to a traction chain.