Interference-Fit Vibration Transmitter for Adjustable Rod Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

The challenge in existing ultrasonic treatment devices is the difficulty in adjusting the positional relationship between separable members of the vibration transmitter due to manufacturing limitations, which affects the alignment and performance of the device.

Innovation Solution

The vibration transmitter is designed with a first rod and a second rod that are joined through methods like shrinkage fitting, where the first rod has a larger diameter and a fitting hole, allowing for precise adjustment of their positional relationship using reference indices, ensuring optimal alignment for ultrasonic vibration transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If two members are joined by screw fastening with machining accuracy, then the positional relationship is defined, but it is difficult to adjust the positional relationship after joining

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositional relationship definitionVSAvoidadjustability of positional relationship
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The vibration transmitter is divided into two separable members (first rod and second rod) that can be joined and separated. The first rod includes a fitting hole and the second rod includes a fitting portion, allowing them to be connected through interference fit while maintaining the ability to disassemble and reassemble with adjusted positioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The joining mechanism transitions from a fixed screw fastening to a dynamic interference fit system where the fitting portion can be inserted into the fitting hole with controlled compression. This allows the positional relationship to be adjusted during assembly while maintaining stability during operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Strength

If two members are joined by screw fastening, then the members are securely connected, but the positional relationship depends on machining accuracy which limits adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoiddependence on machining accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The joining method changes from mechanical threading to interference fit with controlled compression. The fitting portion is designed with specific dimensional parameters that allow it to be compressed into the fitting hole, creating a secure connection through friction and normal forces rather than thread engagement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The interference fit joining method may utilize thermal expansion principles during assembly, where heating the fitting portion or cooling the fitting hole temporarily changes dimensions to facilitate easier insertion, followed by return to original dimensions creating a tight fit

Inventive Principle:
Principle #37Thermal expansion

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 design enables precise alignment and reduced manufacturing costs by allowing separate fabrication of rods with different diameters, enhancing the transmission of ultrasonic vibrations and reducing cutting material requirements, thus improving the device's performance and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a second rod attached to a distal end portion of the first rod by a fitting portion into the fitting hole in a state where a compressed surface pressure is received from the fitting hole

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompressed surface pressure: Compression

Implementation Method 2

a vibration transmitter that transmits ultrasonic vibration

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltrasonic vibration: Ultrasonic Vibration

Implementation Method 3

capable of transmitting vibration of a predetermined resonance frequency generated by the transducer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS12408940B2Vibration transmitter and ultrasonic treatment device
Publication Date: 2025.09.09 OLYMPUS CORPORATION(JP)
  • US12408940B2 patent drawing
  • US12408940B2 patent drawing
  • US12408940B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vibration transmitter includes: a first rod including a fitting hole extending along the longitudinal axis thereof; and a second rod attached to a distal end portion of the first rod by a fitting portion fitted into the fitting hole in a state where a compressed surface pressure is received from the inner surface of fitting hole. The first rod includes: a first region in which the fitting portion is fitted into the fitting hole; and a second region positioned proximal of the first region. In the first region of the first rod, a crystal grain diameter is larger than that in the second region of the first rod.