Dual-Eccentric Sleeve Assembly for Precise Angular Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mounting multi-hole components are vulnerable to angular free-play due to misalignment of bolt axes and loss of bolt preload, which can lead to instability and misalignment in position-sensitive applications.
Innovation Solution
A dual-sleeve adjusting arrangement is provided, comprising a position-sensitive component with eccentric apertures and sleeves, allowing for precise angular adjustment and locking through friction fit and relief cuts, thereby maintaining tight clearances and reducing free-play.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If tight tolerances are used to manufacture holes for alignment, then alignment precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of hole geometry from circular to elongated slot shape. This allows the holes to accommodate misalignment while maintaining precise alignment capability, resolving the contradiction between alignment precision and manufacturing tolerance requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces adjustable angular positioning capability that allows the component to be dynamically adjusted to the correct angle during installation and service. This dynamic adjustment eliminates the need for tight manufacturing tolerances while maintaining alignment precision
2Ease of operation
If over-sized bolt holes are manufactured to compensate for misalignment, then ease of assembly is improved, but angular free-play increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides dynamic angular adjustment capability that allows precise positioning during assembly while preventing free-play in service. The adjustable mechanism maintains tight clearances and eliminates play while preserving ease of assembly through angular correction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical reliance on tight tolerances and bolt preload with an adjustable angular positioning system. This substitution eliminates the trade-off between ease of assembly and angular stability by providing active adjustment capability
3Ease of operation
If elongated slots are used for angular adjustment, then ease of operation is improved, but angular free-play increases when bolt preload is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the passive elongated slot mechanism with an active adjustable angular positioning system. This substitution provides both the ease of angular adjustment and the reliability of secure locking by eliminating dependence on bolt preload alone
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates features that allow the component to self-adjust and self-lock at the correct angular position. The adjustment mechanism includes features for maintaining position without requiring continuous external force or monitoring
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 dual-sleeve arrangement enables step-less adjustment for precise angular positioning, reduces potential free-play, and allows for retrofitting of parts with varying hole spacings, enhancing stability and alignment in position-sensitive applications.
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
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A locking adjusting arrangement includes a position-sensitive component (120) comprising a first aperture disposed in a body of the position-sensitive component, wherein the body comprises opposing fingers at least partially defining the first aperture. The locking adjusting arrangement further includes a first sleeve (130) comprising a first eccentric aperture, wherein the first sleeve is configured to be received into the first aperture, and a second sleeve (140) comprising a second eccentric aperture, wherein the second sleeve is configured to be received into the first eccentric aperture. The first sleeve is compressed between the opposing fingers thereby providing a friction lock to maintain a relative angle of the first sleeve with respect to the position-sensitive component.