Multi-Screw Tensioning Gear Drive for Faster Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for installing multiple tensable connecting elements, such as screws, are time-consuming and inefficient, particularly in applications like engine design where multiple screws are used.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for simultaneously actuating at least two screw tensioning devices using a transmission input element, transmission output elements, and a gear unit that transfers rotational movement to each screw tensioning device, allowing for simultaneous tensioning or loosening of multiple screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple screw tensioning devices are actuated successively using traditional methods, then each screw can be properly tensioned, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and has long cycle times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple screw tensioning operations into a single integrated apparatus that can actuate multiple screws simultaneously. The apparatus includes multiple actuating elements that can be operated together through a common drive mechanism, merging what were previously separate sequential operations into one unified simultaneous operation, thereby dramatically improving productivity and reducing cycle time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous simultaneous action on multiple screws through a single actuating mechanism. The drive unit can continuously rotate and transmit motion to all actuating elements at once, eliminating the stop-start nature of successive operations. This continuous useful action on multiple fastening points simultaneously resolves the time loss associated with sequential operations.
2Productivity
If multiple screw tensioning devices are actuated simultaneously, then assembly time is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal drive unit that serves multiple functions by simultaneously actuating several screws through a single mechanism. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate devices into one apparatus, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the capability for simultaneous multi-screw tensioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a gear unit as an intermediary mechanism that bridges the single drive unit and multiple actuating elements. This intermediary gear mechanism efficiently distributes rotational motion to multiple screws simultaneously, simplifying the connection architecture compared to direct multi-device coordination, and reducing the complexity of synchronizing multiple independent actuators.
3Reliability
If successive mounting of tensile screws is performed, then each connection can be properly installed, but the process lacks efficiency for multiple connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual screw tensioning operations into a single simultaneous operation using an integrated apparatus. Each actuating element maintains its individual tensioning function for reliable connection quality, while the combined operation achieves high productivity by processing multiple connections at once, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and efficiency.
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
Enables time-efficient assembly of multiple tensable screw connections by allowing simultaneous operation of multiple screw tensioning devices, reducing cycle times and complexity compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
a gear unit configured to transfer a rotational movement of the transmission input element into a rotational movement of each one of the transmission output elements around their rotational axis, wherein the gear unit comprises a central gear fixed to the transmission input element and connected or connectable to each one of the transmission output elements in a torque-transmitting manner
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus (10) for simultaneously actuating at least two screw tensioning devices (11). The apparatus (10) comprises a transmission input element (13) for engagement with a tool; at least two transmission output elements (14), each of which is connectable to one of the screw tensioning devices (11) and rotatably mounted around a rotational axis (15); and a gear unit (16) configured to transfer a rotational movement of the transmission input element (13) into a rotational movement of each one of the transmission output elements (14) around their rotational axis (15).