Peelable Adhesive Shim for Variable Gap Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional shims are specifically designed for fixed gaps between two parts, limiting their adaptability to varying gaps, as they are manufactured with a fixed shape compatible only with a specific space.

Innovation Solution

A wedge composed of multiple peelable sections formed by stacking sheets with an adhesive layer, featuring slots that allow for the removal and adjustment of sheets, enabling the wedge to adapt to varying gaps between surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional shims are manufactured with a fixed shape for a specific gap, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegap fit precisionVSAvoidgap size adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The shim is divided into multiple individual sheets stacked together, where each sheet can be independently removed. This segmentation allows the shim to be customized for different gap sizes by adjusting the number of sheets, thereby resolving the contradiction between manufacturing precision and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The shim transitions from a static fixed-configuration structure to a dynamic adjustable structure. The ability to add or remove sheets dynamically allows the shim to adapt to varying gap requirements while maintaining precise fit for each specific configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If conventional shims are designed for specific applications, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegap filling reliabilityVSAvoidadjustment ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the shim into removable sheets, the system maintains reliable gap filling through proper sheet selection while dramatically improving ease of operation. Users can easily adjust the shim by adding or removing sheets without requiring specialized tools or complex procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The shim system enables self-service adjustment where users can independently modify the gap filling capability by removing or adding sheets as needed, eliminating the need for professional intervention or specialized adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple fixed-configuration shims are manufactured for different gaps, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegap size coverageVSAvoidshim system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple potential shim configurations are merged into a single stackable system. Instead of maintaining separate shims for different gap sizes, the invention combines them into one adjustable shim composed of stackable sheets, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

A single shim system performs multiple functions by accommodating various gap sizes through sheet removal. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple specialized shims, thereby reducing device complexity while expanding adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 wedge can be adjusted to fit varying gaps by peeling off sections, providing a flexible solution that can be reused for different applications without the need for re-manufacturing, enhancing versatility and precision.

Implementation Method 1

stacks of a plurality of sheets (6) which are joined together by a layer of adhesive (7)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentEP3090872B1Spacer to be inserted between the facing surfaces of two parts
Publication Date: 2018.02.14 GASTEL DANIEL ANDRE
  • EP3090872B1 patent drawingFigure 1~5

AI summary

The invention relates to a thickness shim for interposing between the opposing surfaces of two parts, the gap between which is variable. This shim is characterized in that it comprises a plurality of sections (4) juxtaposed in the direction of variation of the gap, at least some of which are peelable shim sections (4), formed by stacking a multitude of sheets (6) that adhere to each other by means of an interposed layer of adhesive (7). The invention is applicable to thickness shims.