Flat Annular Anchoring Element for Space-Saving Fluid Channel Fixation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid power assemblies face challenges in achieving a simple, cost-effective, and space-saving method for fixing a first component in the opening of a fluid channel of a second component, as existing solutions are often expensive and occupy significant space.

Innovation Solution

A ring-shaped anchoring element designed as a flat ring disk with a central ring section and anchoring tooth, where the tooth flank directly adjoins the end face without a step, allowing for a low-height, cost-effective fixation by pressing into the fluid channel wall.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional annular anchoring element with a sleeve-like central ring section and axial steps is used, then reliable anchoring is achieved, but the device occupies significant space and has high manufacturing cost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanchoring reliabilityVSAvoidspace occupation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention transitions from a conventional sleeve-like three-dimensional structure with axial steps to a flat two-dimensional ring disk structure. The anchoring tooth is formed by bending the ring disk radially outward, creating a planar geometry that occupies minimal axial space while maintaining anchoring functionality through the bent tooth configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The ring disk is designed as a simple, inexpensive flat component that can be easily manufactured and disposed of if necessary. The simplification of the structure from a complex sleeve with multiple steps to a basic bent ring disk reduces manufacturing complexity and cost, making it a more economical anchoring solution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Strength

If a conventional annular anchoring element with multiple axial steps is used, then anchoring strength is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanchoring strengthVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The anchoring function is segmented into distinct functional zones: the flat ring disk body provides structural support and positioning, while the radially bent anchoring tooth provides mechanical interlocking. This segmentation allows each zone to be optimized independently - the flat body for ease of manufacture and the bent tooth for anchoring strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the geometric parameters from a multi-step axial structure to a planar structure with radial bending. The anchoring tooth is created by bending the ring disk material radially outward, transforming the geometry from vertical steps to horizontal protrusions, which simplifies manufacturing while maintaining strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stability of the object's composition

If existing anchoring solutions are used, then component fixation is achieved, but the overall assembly size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent fixationVSAvoidassembly height
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention eliminates axial steps and transitions to a flat ring disk geometry, reducing the assembly from a multi-level vertical structure to a compact planar structure. The anchoring tooth bends radially outward from the flat disk plane, providing fixation without increasing axial height, thus minimizing the overall assembly dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 configuration enables secure, space-saving fixation of even short components, facilitating various fluid technology applications while reducing manufacturing costs and space requirements.

Implementation Method 1

The ring-shaped anchoring element can be pressed into the opening of a fluid channel and anchors itself in the wall of the fluid channel in a form-fitting manner by means of an anchoring tooth

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP2697524B1Fluid engineering assembly equipped with annular anchoring element
Publication Date: 2016.04.13 FESTO AG & CO KG
  • EP2697524B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2697524B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2697524B1 patent drawingFigure 5~7

AI summary

An annular anchoring element (4) and a fluid engineering assembly (1) equipped therewith are proposed. The angular anchoring element (4) is designed as a flat annular disk and has, in its radially outer area, an anchoring tooth (68) with a first tooth flank (72) which, via a bend without projections, directly adjoins a first end face (64) of a central annular section of the annular body (57).