Hexalobular Coupling for Syringe Pump Spindle Wear Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing syringe pumps experience high wear and reduced precision due to direct force application on drive spindle threads and gear units, leading to inaccurate torque transmission, especially when handling different syringe sizes or those partially used.
Innovation Solution
A form-fitting coupling system using hexalobular socket and projection elements, where the recess and projection are tapered, allowing a gradual increase in engagement depth to achieve a secure fit without initial torque reduction, utilizing hexalobular designs for optimal power transmission and ease of engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If braking elements are used to block gear wheels via frictional engagement, then the drive can be released and re-engaged, but high wear occurs on both the braking elements and the thread of the drive spindle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the friction-based braking mechanism with a form-fitting coupling system using hexalobular sockets and projections. This mechanical substitution eliminates frictional wear by using geometric interlocking instead of frictional engagement, thereby maintaining the ability to release and re-engage the drive while significantly reducing wear on both the coupling elements and the drive spindle thread.
Solution Approach 2:
The hexalobular coupling elements act as intermediary components between the drive spindle and the gear wheels. Instead of directly applying braking force to the thread and gears, the coupling elements provide a dedicated interface for engagement and disengagement, protecting the thread and gears from direct wear while enabling the same functional capability.
2Strength
If high flank pressure is applied during coupling, then secure engagement is achieved, but wear increases and precision deteriorates over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the coupling interface by using hexalobular sockets and projections instead of traditional circular or threaded interfaces. This parameter change allows for secure engagement through geometric interlocking while distributing contact forces across multiple surfaces, thereby maintaining engagement security while reducing localized wear and preserving precision over time.
3Device complexity
If a simple coupling mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but torque transmission accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved hexalobular profiles in the coupling elements, where the specific geometry of the lobes and recesses provides both simplicity in form and precision in function. The curved surfaces ensure smooth engagement while maintaining accurate torque transmission, achieving a balance between simplicity and precision through optimized geometric design.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for the detachable coupling of a driving spindle to the pressing device of a syringe pump. In order to create such a device, which enables high accuracy of the syringe pump for long periods even if high torque is transmitted, it is proposed according to the invention that means (1, 2) for the positive coupling of the driving spindle to the pressing device are provided.