Mechanical Connection with Radially Guided Jaws and Elastic Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical connections, such as those used in cable forces, are prone to failure under tensile forces, as they rely on form-fitting connections that can be easily released, leading to instability and potential disconnection with minimal failure points.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring a support ring with radially guided jaws and an elastic element that engages with a base part, allowing the connection to maintain integrity under tension by forming a form-fit with the base part, while the loop can be easily released by widening the jaws, ensuring the connection remains stable until the loop or base part fails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a form-fitting connection is used to allow easy release, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates as the connection can be easily released under tensile forces
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism transitions from a static form-fit to a dynamic system where the elastic element continuously adjusts the jaw position. Under normal conditions, the elastic force maintains a secure connection. Under tensile load, the system dynamically shifts to a locked state where the jaw engages the groove, preventing release while maintaining ease of operation under normal conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical properties of the connection change based on applied force. The elastic element's deformation under load changes the jaw's radial position, transforming the connection from a loose form-fit to a tight engaged state. This parameter change ensures reliability under tension while maintaining ease of operation when no load is applied.
2Reliability
If multiple elements are used in the connection, then reliability is improved through redundancy, but device complexity increases with more components
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into a single integrated device. The support ring simultaneously provides structural support, guides the jaw movement, contains the elastic element, and provides the groove for engagement. The jaw combines the locking function with the force transmission function. This merging reduces the number of separate elements while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Each component performs multiple functions. The support ring serves as both a structural element and a guide for the jaw. The jaw provides both locking and force transmission. The elastic element provides both the locking force and the mechanism for engagement. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while maintaining connection strength.
3Productivity
If the connection is designed to be quickly assembled, then productivity is improved, but reliability worsens as the connection may fail under tensile forces
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is self-actuating. When the loop is inserted, the elastic element automatically pushes the jaw into the engaged position with the groove, creating a secure connection without requiring additional fastening steps. This self-service mechanism maintains assembly speed while ensuring reliability under load through the automatic engagement design.
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 provides a robust and reliable mechanical connection that supports force transmission and maintains stability until failure, allowing quick and easy disassembly without compromising reliability, with the freedom to rotate about the main axis without frictional connection.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element (2) assigned to the jaws (3), which loads the jaws (3) radially inward
Implementation Method 2
the loop under tension pulls the inner parts of the support ring, i.e., the jaws and the elastic element, together
Implementation Method 3
The jaws push the elastic element radially outwards and widen the loop
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A device for holding a loop (1) comprises a base part (5) and a connected assembly comprising a puller (6), a support ring (4), jaws (3) engaging in the base part (5), and an elastic element (2) assigned to the jaws (3). The radially guided jaws (3) engage positively in the base part (5). The jaws (3) are loaded radially inward by the elastic element (2). The loop (1) encompasses the jaws (3) as well as the puller (6) and, if applicable, the elastic element (2). The freedom of rotation around the main axis of the base part (5) is freely rotatable relative to the other connecting elements. By pulling on the element forming the loop (1), the positive connection between the parts is supported and reinforced.