Gas Spring Lock Ring Consistent Clamping Force

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Solution Overview

Problem

Prior art lock rings suffer from inconsistencies in clamping force due to operator variability, leading to potential loosening and interference issues during metal processing, as they rely on torque for tightening, which can result in the lock ring opening inadvertently.

Innovation Solution

A lock ring with a gas spring biased locking mechanism that provides a consistent clamping force, independent of torque, allowing for self-alignment and adaptation to varying roll groove diameters, featuring a hook-like geometry and a latch assembly with a spring system to ensure secure locking without relying on precise diameter tolerances.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a torque-based tightening mechanism is used, then the lock ring can be closed, but the clamping force becomes inconsistent due to operator variability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of closing lock ringVSAvoidconsistency of clamping force

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the torque-based mechanical tightening system with a spring-loaded clamping mechanism. The spring automatically applies consistent clamping force when the lock ring closes, eliminating operator variability. The spring force is determined by the spring's physical properties rather than human torque application, ensuring reliability and consistency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring mechanism is self-regulating and automatically maintains consistent clamping force without requiring operator intervention or verification. Once the lock ring closes, the spring self-adjusts to provide the correct force, eliminating the need for torque verification and ensuring consistent results every time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of manufacture

If a rigid lock ring structure is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but the lock ring cannot adapt to varying roll groove diameters

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of lock ring constructionVSAvoidadaptation to varying diameters

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic elements through the spring mechanism and hinge connection, allowing the lock ring to flex and adapt to different roll groove diameters. The spring-loaded design enables the lock ring to maintain proper clamping force across a range of sizes, providing versatility while remaining manufacturable using standard materials and components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If precise diameter tolerances are required, then the lock ring fits better, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefit quality of lock ringVSAvoiddiameter tolerance requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the critical parameter from fixed diameter tolerance to spring force characteristics. Instead of requiring precise diameter matching, the spring mechanism compensates for dimensional variations by adjusting its compression force. This shifts the precision requirement from dimensional control to spring force control, which is more easily achieved through standard manufacturing practices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Reliability

If the lock ring is designed with interference prevention features, then safety improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesafety against inadvertent openingVSAvoidcomplexity of lock ring design

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring mechanism applies preliminary clamping force that continuously presses the lock ring against the roll groove, creating preliminary anti-action against any forces that might cause inadvertent opening. This pre-applied force prevents lifting or displacement before they can occur, enhancing safety through a simple spring-based system rather than complex mechanical interlocks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

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 gas spring biased lock ring ensures a consistent clamping force throughout its operation, reducing the risk of loosening and interference, enhancing safety and reliability by maintaining a secure grip on the roll assembly despite wear or thermal changes, and eliminating the need for precise diameter matching.

Implementation Method 1

The present invention is directed to lock rings that include a fluid spring biased locking mechanism, and more particularly to lock rings that include a gas spring biased locking mechanism

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGas spring:

Data Source

PatentUS10441983B2Lock ring

Publication Date: 2019.10.15 BG MC US HOLDINGS LLC

AI summary

A lock ring that has a first ring half, a second ring half and a latch assembly. The first ring half includes a nest opening on a front portion of the first ring half, a back end portion of the first ring portion hingedly connected to a back end portion of the second ring half. The latch assembly is connected to a front portion of the second ring half. The latch assembly includes a connection arrangement and a spring system. The connection arrangement is designed to be releasably positionable in the nest opening. The spring system is designed to cause the front portions of the first and second ring halves to be drawn toward one another when the connection arrangement is positioned in the nest opening.