Dual-Eccentric Sleeve Assembly for Precise Angular Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mounting multi-hole components are prone to angular free-play due to misalignment of bolt axes and loss of bolt preload, which can compromise the precision and stability of position-sensitive devices.
Innovation Solution
A dual-sleeve adjusting arrangement is introduced, comprising a position-sensitive component with eccentric apertures and sleeves, allowing for precise angular adjustment and locking without the need for tight tolerances, using a friction fit mechanism and relief cuts to secure the sleeves in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If tight tolerances are used to manufacture holes for alignment, then manufacturing precision is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the mounting holes from circular to elongated slot shapes. This parameter change allows for tolerance compensation in the direction of elongation, eliminating the need for tight circular hole tolerances while maintaining precise angular positioning capability through the defined slot geometry and bolt arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the positioning function into two independent components: angular positioning is achieved through the precise orientation of elongated slots, while linear positioning tolerance is absorbed by the elongation of the slots themselves. This segmentation allows each function to be optimized independently without requiring tight tolerances on both dimensions simultaneously.
2Ease of operation
If over-sized bolt holes are manufactured to compensate for misalignment, then ease of assembly is improved, but angular positioning precision deteriorates due to free-play
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the hole geometry from circular to elongated slots with controlled dimensions. The slots are sized to provide just enough clearance for bolt insertion while maintaining precise angular positioning. The elongation direction and magnitude are specifically designed to accommodate misalignment without creating excessive free-play, achieving both ease of assembly and positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric slot geometry where the elongation is oriented perpendicular to the desired angular positioning axis. This asymmetric design allows the slot to accommodate linear misalignment while maintaining tight constraints in the angular direction, preventing free-play while preserving assembly ease.
3Adaptability or versatility
If elongated slots are used for angular adjustment, then adaptability is improved, but angular positioning stability deteriorates due to free-play when bolt preload is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic locking mechanism that transitions from a loose state during assembly (allowing angular adjustment) to a locked state during operation (preventing free-play). The movable locking element responds to bolt preload by engaging with the elongated slot, dynamically adapting to maintain stable angular positioning while preserving adjustability during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a locking element as an intermediary between the bolt and the elongated slot. This locking element maintains continuous contact with both the bolt and the slot, acting as a mediator that prevents free-play by mechanically constraining the slot's movement while allowing the bolt to maintain preload. The intermediary ensures angular stability even when preload is lost or varies during 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 step-less adjustment for precise angular positioning, reduces potential free-play, and allows for retrofitting of parts with varying hole configurations, thereby enhancing the stability and accuracy of position-sensitive components.
Implementation Method 1
a first sleeve comprising a first eccentric aperture, wherein the first sleeve is configured to be received into the first aperture... whereby a size of the first aperture is adjustable for compressing and releasing the first sleeve
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A dual-sleeve, locking adjustment arrangement includes a position-sensitive component (120) comprising an aperture, an outer eccentric sleeve (130) disposed in the aperture, and an inner eccentric sleeve (140) disposed in the outer sleeve. Rotation of the outer sleeve (130) with respect to the position-sensitive component (120) and the inner sleeve (140) drives rotation of the position-sensitive component (120) to adjust an angular position of the component.