CV Joint Boot Restrictor for Axial Displacement Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing constant velocity joint assemblies face issues with undesired displacement of the inner joint member from the outer joint member during installation, handling, and maintenance, leading to potential separation and damage, and existing restriction features increase manufacturing complexity and cost while complicating maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A joint assembly with a boot made of elastic material that includes restrictors extending into the tracks of the outer joint member, which engage with torque-transmitting elements to prevent axial displacement, reducing the need for separate restriction components and simplifying assembly and maintenance by integrating the restrictor into the boot design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate restriction components (retention rings, clips, plates) are added to prevent inner joint member displacement, then reliability of preventing undesired displacement is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The restrictor function is merged with the boot by integrating restrictor elements directly into the boot structure. The boot now serves dual purposes: protecting the joint assembly and restricting axial displacement of the inner joint member through its integrated restrictor elements, eliminating the need for separate retention rings, clips, or plates.
Solution Approach 2:
The boot is transformed from a single-function protective cover into a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides protection and axial restriction. The restrictor elements within the boot create engagement features that prevent undesired displacement of the inner joint member, making the boot a universal solution that combines protection and retention functions.
2Reliability
If multiple separate restriction components are used to restrict inner joint member displacement, then reliability of preventing separation is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is simplified by combining the restrictor elements and boot into a single integrated component that can be manufactured as one piece. This eliminates the need to separately manufacture and assemble multiple restriction components, reducing manufacturing steps and improving ease of production while maintaining the reliability of displacement prevention.
3Reliability
If separate restriction features are added to the joint assembly, then reliability of preventing undesired displacement is improved, but ease of maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Maintenance is simplified by merging the restrictor function into the boot, which is already a routine replacement component. When the boot needs replacement due to wear or damage, the restrictor elements are replaced simultaneously without requiring separate maintenance procedures. This integration eliminates additional maintenance steps and improves ease of repair while maintaining reliable displacement prevention.
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 solution effectively prevents undesired displacement of the inner joint member, reduces manufacturing complexity and cost, and enhances maintainability by using a single-piece boot with restrictors that deform to provide a clamping effect, ensuring secure engagement of the inner joint member during transport, handling, and installation while allowing free movement during operation.
Implementation Method 1
A joint assembly with a boot made of elastic material that includes restrictors extending into the tracks of the outer joint member, which engage with torque-transmitting elements to prevent axial displacement, reducing the need for separate restriction components and simplifying assembly and maintenance by integrating the restrictor into the boot design
Data Source
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AI summary
A joint assembly (5) comprising a hollow outer joint member (10) including a wall forming an open end and a closed end (12), the outer joint member (10) having a plurality of tracks (11) in its inner surface. An inner joint member (20) received in the outer joint member (10) and plurality of torque-transmitting elements (24), whereby the plurality of torque-transmitting elements (24) rotationally engage with the inner joint member (20) and the tracks (11) of the outer joint member (10). Each track (11) comprises two opposing side walls (13;14) and a torque-transmitting element (24) engages these side walls (13; 14) of the outer joint member (11) and is configured to move in an axial direction along the side walls (13; 14). Furthermore, a boot (30) covering the open end of the outer joint member (10) and at least one restrictor (31;31') configured to engage at least one of the plurality of torque-transmitting elements (24) to militate against undesired displacement of the inner joint member (20) with respect to the outer joint member (10). The restrictor (31;31') is part of the boot (30) and extends through the open end of the outer joint member (10) into a track (11) in the outer joint member (10) along a side wall (13;14).