Lifting Bolt Ring Holder With Locking and Ball-Bearing Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection devices for coupling loads to carrying pins are either complex in structure, require tools for assembly, or cannot accommodate closed slings, leading to difficulties in alignment and torque transmission.
Innovation Solution
A connection device featuring a ring holder with a radially protruding end flange, a ball bearing for low-friction support bolt alignment, and a locking mechanism that can be operated tool-free, allowing for easy assembly and installation of closed slings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a support bolt with locking elements is used to block the bolt head, then torque transmission is improved, but alignment of the support bolt in the direction of load cannot be carried out
Solution Approach 1:
The locking elements are designed to be movable between a locked position (blocking the bolt head) and an unlocked position (allowing rotation). This dynamic capability enables the system to switch between torque transmission mode and alignment mode, resolving the contradiction between these two functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation of the support bolt is segmented into distinct phases: alignment phase (where the bolt can rotate freely or with reduced constraint) and torque transmission phase (where the locking elements engage to prevent rotation). This segmentation allows each function to be optimized independently.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an open ring supporting eyelet is used, then closed slings can be installed, but the overall structure becomes complicated and installation is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The support bolt assembly is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides torque transmission through locking elements, enables alignment through rotational capability, and accommodates closed slings when the locking elements are disengaged. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each function, simplifying the overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The functions of torque transmission, alignment, and sling accommodation are merged into a single integrated support bolt assembly. The locking elements serve both as torque transmission components and as indicators for alignment status, reducing the number of separate parts needed.
3Ease of operation
If parts are rotated to each other during alignment, then alignment is possible, but large friction forces occur and wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ball bearing enables partial rotation - just enough for alignment purposes - without requiring full rotational freedom. This limited rotation minimizes the distance over which friction acts, reducing wear while still achieving the necessary alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The ball bearing acts as an intermediary element between the support bolt and the ring holder, enabling smooth relative motion during alignment. This intermediary reduces direct metal-to-metal contact and the associated friction and wear.
4Reliability
If a ball bearing is used for low-friction support, then alignment friction is reduced, but tool-free assembly capability must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The locking elements are designed to be operable by the user's hand without requiring external tools. The user can manually engage and disengage the locking elements to switch between alignment mode and torque transmission mode, maintaining tool-free operation while benefiting from the ball bearing's low-friction characteristics.
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 device enables simple, tool-free assembly and alignment of the support bolt with minimal friction, facilitating the use of closed slings and efficient torque transmission.
Implementation Method 1
the supporting bolt is mounted in the through-hole opening of the ring holder via a ball bearing
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
In a connection device for coupling a load to a lifting eye (2) by means of a lifting bolt (6) which is rotatably seated in a through-hole (15) of a ring holder (4), has a threaded shank (8) and a bolt head (7) projecting radially beyond it, and which is rotatable relative to the lifting eye (2) together with the coupled load (10) even when attached, the ring holder (4) is covered on its underside by an end flange (12) at the lower end of a sleeve (11) which is detachably attached to the lifting bolt by axial tension. At least one locking element (18) for the bolt head is provided on the ring holder, which, in a locked position, prevents the bolt head from rotating and, in a neutral position, is not engaged with it. The lifting bolt is supported in the through-hole (15) of the ring holder by a ball bearing (9), and the lifting eye is designed as an open ring, both end regions (3) of which engage radially in recesses (5) formed on the underside of the ring holder.