Flyer Chain End Fixing via External Plate-Link Clamping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for fixing the end-side of a flyer chain are cumbersome and require special configuration, leading to a high installation effort due to the need for precise alignment and additional components.
Innovation Solution
A clamping device that secures the end-side of the flyer chain by applying force to the outer circumference of its plate-links, eliminating the need for specialized components and allowing for adjustable fastening without altering the chain's configuration, using interconnectable walls and a length-adjustable mechanism for versatile fitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a bolt connection with chain anchor is used to fix the end-side of the flyer chain, then the connection security is improved, but the installation effort and device complexity increase due to special configuration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of inserting components through the plate-links from the inside (bolt connection), the invention applies clamping force from the outside on the outer contour of the plate-links. This inversion of the fastening approach eliminates the need for components to pass through the plate-links, thereby reducing configuration requirements and installation effort while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the fastening action from the interior of the plate-link assembly (where bolts would need to pass through) and applies it externally on the outer contour. This separation allows the clamping mechanism to act on the exterior surface, eliminating the need for special internal configurations or through-openings in the plate-links.
2Reliability
If a bolt connection with chain anchor is used to fix the end-side of the flyer chain, then the connection security is improved, but the installation time increases due to precise alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
By applying the clamping force from the outside rather than inserting bolts from the inside, the invention eliminates the time-consuming alignment and insertion processes. The clamping mechanism can be applied directly to the outer contour without needing to align with internal features or pass through the plate-links, significantly reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping mechanism is designed to apply force directly to the outer contour of the plate-links, which are already in their final position in the flyer chain. This eliminates the need for preliminary alignment adjustments or sequential assembly steps required by bolt connections, allowing for faster installation.
3Ease of operation
If a clamping connection on the outer contour is used to fix the end-side of the flyer chain, then the installation effort is reduced, but the clamping force distribution may become uneven
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping mechanism is divided into multiple clamping elements or contact points that distribute the clamping force across different locations on the outer contour of the plate-links. This segmentation ensures even force distribution while maintaining the simplicity of external clamping application.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping mechanism features locally optimized contact surfaces and force application points that are specifically designed to distribute force evenly across the plate-link geometry. Different regions of the clamping mechanism have tailored properties to ensure uniform pressure distribution despite variations in the outer contour shape.
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
Enables efficient and secure fastening of conventional flyer chains with reduced installation effort, accommodating various geometries and providing a strong clamping effect through optimized contact surfaces and modular design.
Implementation Method 1
a clamping with exertion of a force onto sub sections of an outer circumferential surface of at least one plate-link
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for fixing an end-side of a flyer chain, wherein the fixing can be carried out by a clamping through the exertion of a force on partial sections of an outer circumferential surface of at least one plate-link of at least one end-side link of the flyer chain.