Damper Torque Tool With Triggered Pin Engagement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing damper assembly components, such as those used in automotive suspension systems, face challenges in efficient and easy engagement and disengagement during torque application, particularly due to threaded connections that require complex tools and laborious manual operations.

Innovation Solution

A torque application apparatus featuring moveable pins that transition between engaged and disengaged positions, facilitated by cams and triggers, allows for easy attachment and detachment of damper assembly components by pivoting and spring-assisted mechanisms, enabling efficient torque transfer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If threaded connections are used to connect damper components, then reliable mechanical connection is achieved, but engagement and disengagement operations become complex and laborious

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical connection reliabilityVSAvoidengagement and disengagement ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The tool is divided into multiple functional segments: a handle portion, a head portion with multiple jaws, and individual actuation mechanisms for each jaw. This segmentation allows the complex function of threaded connection manipulation to be broken down into simpler, independently controllable actions, enabling easy engagement and disengagement while maintaining reliable mechanical connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tool incorporates self-energizing mechanisms where the actuation of one jaw automatically triggers the sequential actuation of other jaws through cam mechanisms and spring-loaded linkages. This self-service feature eliminates the need for complex manual coordination, allowing operators to easily engage and disengage threaded connections with minimal effort while ensuring all jaws act simultaneously for reliable connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Manufacturing precision

If complex tools are used for torque application, then precise torque control is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque application precisionVSAvoidtool structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple functional capabilities are merged into a single integrated tool head: multiple adjustable jaws for different fastener sizes, spring-loaded mechanisms for automatic engagement, cam-based actuation systems for synchronized movement, and torque application features. This merging provides precise torque control while presenting a relatively simple overall structure to the user, reducing the perceived complexity despite the sophisticated internal mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Facilitates effortless and secure engagement and disengagement of damper assembly components, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing manual labor, while ensuring robust torque application.

Implementation Method 1

a spring positioned within the base and in engagement with the pin to move the pin between the engaged positions and the disengaged positions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Implementation Method 2

a cam supported by the base and in engagement with the pin to move the pin between the engaged positions and the disengaged positions

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCam: Cam

Data Source

PatentEP4144482B1Torque application apparatus
Publication Date: 2025.10.08 ADVANCED SUSPENSION TECHNOLOGY LLC
  • EP4144482B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4144482B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4144482B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An apparatus for applying torque to a body includes a base defining an inner chamber. The apparatus includes a plurality of pins supported by base and disposed in the inner chamber, the plurality of pins moveable relative to the base between engaged positions and disengaged positions. The apparatus includes a trigger actuatable to move at least one of the plurality of pins to the disengaged position.