Eccentric Connecting Rod Coupling for Ram Range Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing bodymaker systems require extensive downtime and complex processes to adjust the range of the ram body, involving the removal and replacement of substantial components like the connection rod coupling assembly shaft, which is time-consuming and prone to damage.

Innovation Solution

A connection rod coupling assembly with a settable shape mounting system, including a bearing assembly with an offset center axis, allows for adjustable positioning without decoupling major components, enabling the adjustment of the ram assembly's range by reorienting the settable shape mounting components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the connection rod coupling assembly shaft is removed and replaced to adjust the ram body range, then the adjustment can be made, but extensive downtime and complex processes are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of ram body rangeVSAvoiddowntime for adjustment

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connection rod coupling assembly incorporates an adjustable coupling mechanism that allows the ram body range to be modified without complete disassembly. The coupling assembly includes adjustable components that can be repositioned along the connection rod to change the effective stroke length, transforming a static assembly into a dynamically adjustable one.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling assembly is divided into separable sections with adjustment mechanisms that allow individual components to be repositioned independently. This segmentation enables range adjustment through simple component repositioning rather than complete removal and replacement of the entire shaft assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the connection rod coupling assembly shaft is removed and replaced to adjust the ram body range, then the adjustment can be made, but the process is complex and prone to damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of ram body rangeVSAvoidcomplexity of adjustment process

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling assembly features a built-in adjustment mechanism that allows range modification through simple repositioning of adjustable components along the connection rod. This eliminates the need for complex removal and replacement procedures, reducing both process complexity and risk of damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling assembly includes self-adjusting features such as threaded adjustment mechanisms or movable bearing supports that can be repositioned using standard tools without requiring specialized procedures. The design allows operators to perform adjustments themselves without needing to completely disassemble the assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the bearing assembly is repositioned to adjust the ram assembly range, then adjustment is enabled, but the mounting system must accommodate offset positioning

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of ram assembly rangeVSAvoidmounting system design

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system incorporates an asymmetric bearing support design where the bearing assembly can be positioned at offset locations relative to the connection rod axis. The mounting structure includes features such as eccentric mounting plates or offset bearing seats that accommodate non-aligned positioning, enabling range adjustment through bearing repositioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system includes adjustable mounting features that allow the bearing assembly to be repositioned to various offset locations. This may include threaded adjustment mechanisms, movable mounting brackets, or eccentric cam mechanisms that enable the bearing center to be positioned at different radial distances from the connection rod axis.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 the adjustment of the ram assembly's range without the need to remove and replace significant parts, reducing downtime and potential damage, thus improving operational efficiency and reducing maintenance complexity.

Implementation Method 1

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEccentric: Eccentric

Data Source

PatentUS11992868B2Eccentric second connecting rod subassembly

Publication Date: 2024.05.28 STOLLE MACHINERY CO LLC

AI summary

A connection rod coupling assembly includes a settable shape mounting second component having a lateral, primary axis and a bearing assembly including a bearing assembly body. The bearing assembly body includes a substantially cylindrical outer surface and a center axis. The bearing assembly body is coupled to the settable shape mounting second component in a non-aligned configuration. That is, the bearing assembly body center axis is offset from the settable shape mounting second component primary axis. Thus, the position of the bearing assembly body center axis is adjustable by repositioning the settable shape mounting second component relative to a settable shape mounting first component on a swing lever. The adjustment of the bearing assembly body, in turn, adjusts the range of the ram assembly and the ram assembly body.