Differential Jackset Driving Tool for Parallel Connector Tightening
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of jackset screws in circuit card assemblies is cumbersome and prone to thread seizure due to the need for precise alternation to maintain connector parallelism, leading to potential damage and costly repairs.
Innovation Solution
A driving tool utilizing a differential gear system with universal shafts to transfer torque simultaneously to two output shafts, ensuring parallel alignment and reducing the risk of thread seizure by allowing for adjustable width and synchronized screw tightening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If jackset screws are tightened alternately to maintain connector parallelism, then connector alignment is improved, but assembly time increases and the process becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate tightening operations into a single synchronized action by using a T-shaped tool that engages both jackset screws simultaneously. The tool body connects two driver heads that rotate together, allowing both screws to be tightened in unison while maintaining parallelism, thus eliminating the need for alternating tightening steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The differential gear mechanism automatically adjusts the torque distribution between the two output shafts based on the resistance encountered by each jackset screw. When one screw encounters higher resistance, the differential gear naturally directs more torque to the other screw, maintaining balance without operator intervention and ensuring continuous parallel alignment.
2Speed
If one jackset is turned too much, then tightening speed increases, but the connector skews and threads seize causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The differential gear mechanism provides automatic feedback control by continuously monitoring the rotational resistance of each jackset screw. When one screw approaches seizure or excessive tightening, the increased resistance is immediately reflected in the differential gear, which automatically reduces torque to that screw and redirects it to the other screw, preventing thread damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The differential gear mechanism preemptively distributes torque in a way that prevents any single jackset from being over-tightened. By naturally balancing the torque distribution before seizure can occur, the system cushions against the harmful effect of thread seizure rather than reacting after damage begins.
3Manufacturing precision
If alternating tightening is performed to maintain parallelism, then connector alignment is maintained, but the operation becomes complex and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the complex multi-step alternating tightening process into a single simple rotational action. The operator only needs to rotate the T-shaped tool handle, which simultaneously drives both jackset screws through the differential gear mechanism, eliminating the need to remember or execute complex alternating sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The differential gear mechanism automatically maintains the parallelism relationship between the two connectors by self-adjusting torque distribution. The system serves itself by using the natural mechanical properties of the differential gear to balance the tightening forces, removing the need for operator skill or attention to maintain precision.
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 tool significantly reduces the risk of thread seizure and assembly time by maintaining connector alignment and synchronizing the tightening of jacksets, making the installation process more efficient and reducing the likelihood of costly repairs.
Implementation Method 1
a differential gear mechanism (56) within the housing (16) of the gearbox (14). The differential gear mechanism (56) varies an amount of torque directed to at least one of the first and second output shafts (18, 20)
Data Source
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AI summary
A driving tool (10) for driving jackset screws includes an input shaft (12), output shafts (18,20), gear assembly, driver heads (22,24), and a yoke (30). The input shaft (12) is configured to receive torque. The first and second output shafts (18,20) are operably connected to the input shaft (12) via the gear assembly. The gear assembly includes a differential gear assembly rotatably engaged with the input shaft (12). The first driver head (22) is attached to a distal end of the first output shaft (18). The second driver head (24) is attached to a distal end of the second output shaft (20). The yoke (30) is connected to and extends between ends of the first and second output shafts (158,20). The yoke (30) defines a position of the distal ends of the first and second shafts relative to each other and is configured to adjust a distance between the first and second driver heads (22,24).