Locking Ring Screw Assembly With Single-Drive Torque Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual methods for screwing a locking ring onto a threaded bolt are time-consuming and inefficient, particularly in the aviation engineering sector where automated connections are needed.
Innovation Solution
A screwing apparatus that uses a single rotary drive to automate the rotation of both the coupling device and the locking ring holder, allowing for automated threading and screwing of the locking ring onto the threaded bolt, with optional linear movements for securing the locking ring and utilizing a clutch arrangement for directional control, and a feed gripper for precise positioning and tear-off mechanism for ensuring desired torque.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual methods are used for screwing the locking ring onto the threaded bolt, then the process allows for manual control and adjustment, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (threading the coupling device, screwing the locking ring holder, and securing the locking ring) into a single automated screwing apparatus that performs all operations in one integrated process, eliminating the need for separate manual operations and significantly improving productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The screwing apparatus is designed with multi-functional capabilities to perform threading, screwing, and securing operations using a single device, allowing automated execution of multiple steps that previously required separate manual interventions, thereby enhancing both productivity and automation level
2Device complexity
If a single rotary drive is used to drive both the coupling device and the locking ring holder, then the device complexity is reduced and automation is improved, but the control of directional movements becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic clutch arrangement that can selectively engage and disengage drive connections between the rotary drive and the coupling device or locking ring holder based on the required operation phase, enabling straightforward directional control despite using a single rotary drive and reducing overall device complexity
3Reliability
If the coupling device is threaded into the threaded bolt to fix it against rotation, then the locking ring can be securely screwed on, but the process requires precise positioning and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The screwing apparatus is designed to automatically perform preliminary positioning and alignment of the coupling device with the threaded bolt before threading begins, ensuring precise positioning and alignment without requiring high manufacturing precision in the final assembly operation, thereby maintaining both reliability and reducing precision requirements
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a method for screwing a locking ring onto a threaded bolt, wherein a coupling device for being threaded into the threaded bolt is driven in rotation by a rotary drive, and wherein the locking ring is then screwed onto the threaded bolt, which is fixed by the coupling device, by a locking ring holder which is driven in rotation by the rotary drive. The disclosure likewise relates to a method for screwing a locking ring comprising a fastening part and a tear-off part onto a threaded bolt, wherein a removal gripper grips the tear-off part and removes the tear-off part after the tear-off part has been torn off. The disclosure further relates to a screwing apparatus for executing a method according to the disclosure.