Mechanical Joint With Asymmetric Connecting Pin For Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical joints for coupling elements lack simplicity and require successive adjustments, failing to provide a smart and efficient method for alignment and secure coupling without rotational freedom after insertion.
Innovation Solution
The mechanical joint features a connecting pin with a broadened section and beveled ends for precise alignment, and clamping pins with draft holes for secure insertion and non-rotational stability, allowing elements to be coupled in multiple configurations without manual adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional mechanical joint is used for coupling elements, then the elements can be secured together, but manual adjustments are required to limit clearances and ensure proper alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The broadened section of the connecting pin is preliminarily shaped to match the contour of the hole in the element. This preliminary action ensures that when the pin is inserted, it automatically aligns with the hole without requiring manual adjustment, thereby eliminating clearances and ensuring proper alignment before the final coupling is completed
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting pin's broadened section is designed to self-align with the hole contour through its predetermined shape. When inserted, the pin automatically positions itself correctly without requiring external manual adjustment, allowing the joint to service itself in terms of alignment and clearance reduction
2Ease of operation
If a mechanical joint allows rotational freedom for easy insertion, then the coupling process is simplified, but the joint lacks stability and precision after insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting pin features an asymmetric broadened section with a specific contour that does not match a perfect circle. This asymmetric shape, when inserted into a correspondingly contoured hole, prevents rotational movement while maintaining ease of insertion along the insertion axis. The asymmetry ensures that the pin can only be inserted in the correct orientation, providing both ease of operation and stability
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting pin is segmented into different functional sections: a insertion section that allows easy insertion, a broadened section that provides alignment and prevents rotation, and a clamping section that secures the element. This segmentation allows each part to fulfill its specific function optimally, combining ease of insertion with rotational stability
3Manufacturing precision
If the joint requires successive adjustments to achieve proper alignment, then manufacturing precision can be maintained, but the assembly time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The broadened section of the connecting pin is preliminarily formed with the exact contour matching the hole in the element. This preliminary action ensures that when the pin is inserted, it automatically achieves precise alignment without requiring successive adjustments during assembly, thereby maintaining manufacturing precision while significantly improving assembly speed and productivity
Data Source
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AI summary
A mechanical joint for the reversible coupling of two or more elements (4) to bring close to each other, in which each of said elements (4) has at least one hole (9) on the coupling interface, the joint comprising at least two clamping pins (2) and at least one connecting pin (1), in which said connecting pin (1) has two ends (1 a, 1b) adapted to be respectively inserted in the holes (9) of the elements (4), in which the clamping pins (2) are adapted to be respectively coupled to said two ends (1a, 1b) and to the elements (4), in which the connecting pin (1) comprises, at one intermediate section thereof, a broadened section (15) adapted to be inserted exactly in an outer part of the holes (9) of the two elements (4) so that they are aligned in a predetermined way, in which the two ends (1a, 1b) are adapted to be inserted with radial clearance in an inner part of the holes (9).