Link-Plate Chain Strength via Opposite Direction Stretching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional link-plate chains are not effectively enhanced in strength, limiting their use in space-saving applications without compromising torque transmission.
Innovation Solution
Stretching the link-plate chain in opposite directions during the rotational process introduces uniform plasticization regions, significantly increasing its strength by a factor of five to eight, allowing for smaller chain designs without strength loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the link-plate chain is stretched in only one direction of rotation during the stretching process, then the stretching process is simple and quick, but the strength of the link-plate chain is not sufficiently enhanced
Solution Approach 1:
The stretching process is performed periodically in alternating directions of rotation. The link-plate chain is stretched in a first direction of rotation, then in a second opposite direction of rotation, creating a periodic action that uniformly distributes plasticization regions throughout the chain and significantly enhances its strength
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of stretching the link-plate chain in only one direction of rotation, the method inverts the approach by stretching it in alternating directions. This reversal of the conventional single-direction stretching method creates uniform plasticization regions and dramatically increases chain strength
2Strength
If the link-plate chain is stretched repeatedly in opposite directions, then the strength is significantly increased, but the manufacturing time and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The method applies excessive action by stretching the link-plate chain more times and in both directions than conventional single-direction stretching. This excessive stretching action, while increasing process time, creates uniform plasticization regions throughout the chain and achieves a five to eight times increase in strength
3Volume of moving object
If conventional stretching processes are used with single direction of rotation, then the construction space is larger, but the chain strength is insufficient for space-saving applications
Solution Approach 1:
The periodic stretching action in alternating directions creates uniform plasticization regions that maximize chain strength. This enables the use of narrower, more compact chains that save construction space while maintaining or enhancing strength and torque transmission capability
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 method of stretching link-plate chains in opposite directions enhances their strength and torque transmission, enabling the use of narrower chains with improved acoustics and reduced construction space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
During the stretching a material plasticization occurs, which results in a permanent deformation of individual parts of the link-plate chain
Data Source
AI summary
A method for providing a link-plate chain having increased strength by stretching the chain between a pair of spaced, rotatable conical pulleys, wherein the link-plate chain is stretched in opposite directions of rotation of the conical pulleys. The opposite stretching operations impart deformation forces on at least the link-plates and/or rocker pressure pieces that interconnect link plates of the link-plate chain. The deformation forces cause parts of the chain to undergo plasticization regions of the chain components and that result in increased chain strength.