Dual-Eccentric Sleeve Assembly for Precise Angular Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mounting multi-hole components often suffer from angular free-play due to misalignment and loss of bolt preload, which can be exacerbated by the need for tight tolerances and oversized holes or elongated slots.
Innovation Solution
A dual-sleeve adjusting arrangement with eccentric apertures and opposing fingers that allow for step-less angular adjustment and locking of position-sensitive components, using a friction fit mechanism to secure the sleeves and maintain precise alignment without additional hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If tight tolerances are used to ensure hole alignment, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of hole geometry from circular to elongated slot, allowing bolts to be inserted without precise angular alignment. This parameter change enables manufacturing with relaxed tolerances while still achieving proper component positioning through the slot's geometric constraint
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the mounting function into two independent operations: first inserting bolts through elongated slots without angular precision requirements, then separately adjusting and locking components at the correct angular position. This segmentation eliminates the need for tight tolerances in the initial manufacturing stage
2Ease of manufacture
If oversized bolt holes are used to compensate for misalignment, then ease of manufacture is improved, but angular precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic adjustment mechanism where components can be positioned at the correct angular orientation after initial assembly. The adjustment feature allows the system to transition from a static, tolerance-dependent state to a dynamic, post-assembly adjustment state, achieving precision without oversized holes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary assembly using elongated slots that accommodate misalignment, then subsequently performs the precision angular positioning action. This preliminary action with relaxed tolerances followed by a separate precision adjustment eliminates the need for oversized holes while maintaining ease of manufacture
3Ease of operation
If elongated slots are used for angular adjustment, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to angular free-play
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic locking mechanism that transitions the adjustment feature from a free-moving state during positioning to a locked state that eliminates free-play. The lockable adjustment feature allows easy angular adjustment during operation, then secures the position to prevent unwanted movement, maintaining both ease of operation and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a locking mechanism that provides feedback by detecting when angular adjustment is complete and securing the position. This feedback mechanism ensures that once the desired angular position is achieved, the system actively maintains that position, preventing free-play and improving reliability
4Reliability
If bolt preload is increased to prevent free-play, then reliability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a self-locking adjustment mechanism that automatically maintains the desired angular position without requiring continuous bolt preload application. The locking feature engages passively to prevent free-play, eliminating the complexity of preload control systems while maintaining reliability through mechanical self-service
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
This solution enables precise angular positioning and locking of components, reducing potential free-play and allowing for retrofitting of parts with varying hole distances, while maintaining tight clearances and eliminating the need for highly precise tolerances.
Implementation Method 1
the first sleeve is friction fit into the first aperture
Implementation Method 2
the first sleeve is compressed between the opposing fingers thereby providing a friction lock
Data Source
AI summary
A dual-sleeve, locking adjustment arrangement includes a position-sensitive component comprising an aperture, an outer eccentric sleeve disposed in the aperture, and an inner eccentric sleeve disposed in the outer sleeve. Rotation of the outer sleeve with respect to the position-sensitive component and the inner sleeve drives rotation of the position-sensitive component to adjust an angular position of the component.