Pendulum Damping Device Spacer Assembly Method

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional pendulum-type damping devices for motor vehicle transmissions require larger dimensions due to protruding rivet ends, which weakens the load-bearing section and complicates manufacturing with simpler spacer shapes.

Innovation Solution

A method for assembling a pendulum-type damping device where spacers are force-fitted into openings of the mass parts, with ends flush to the outer surfaces, and optionally welded, using guidance studs for precise positioning and deformation to reduce overall dimensions and enhance structural integrity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If rivets are used to fasten spacers to mass parts, then the spacers can be held in position, but the load-bearing section is weakened and the overall dimensions increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload-bearing sectionVSAvoidoverall dimensions
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The harmful elements (protruding rivet heads) are removed from the system. Instead of using rivets that extend beyond the mass parts, the patent uses interference-fit spacers that are flush with the outer surfaces, eliminating the volume occupied by rivet heads and restoring the load-bearing section.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical fastening system (rivets) is replaced with an interference-fit system. The spacers are force-fitted into the mass parts, creating a press-fit connection that eliminates the need for protruding fasteners while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If rivets are used to connect spacers to mass parts, then the connection is secure, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidmanufacturing process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The complex riveting process is removed from the manufacturing sequence. The spacers are simply force-fitted into the mass parts in a single operation, eliminating the multiple steps required for rivet installation, positioning, and securing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The spacers are designed with dimensions that enable direct force-fitting into the mass parts without requiring preliminary drilling, countersinking, or rivet preparation. The interference-fit geometry is pre-configured to achieve secure connection upon assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of manufacture

If spacer ends protrude axially from mass parts, then the spacers can be fastened with rivets, but the surrounding parts must be dimensioned larger

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespacer fasteningVSAvoidsurrounding parts dimension
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The protruding spacer ends and rivet heads are removed from the system. The spacers are force-fitted to be flush with the outer surfaces of the mass parts, eliminating the need for enlarged surrounding parts and reducing the overall envelope dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of designing spacers that protrude and require enlargement of surrounding parts, the patent inverts the approach by designing spacers that are contained within the mass part boundaries, allowing for more compact overall dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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 method allows for a compact design, reducing the need for oversized components, improving the structural integrity by ensuring proper fitting and deformation of parts, and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining effective vibration damping.

Implementation Method 1

a roller being disposed between the spacer and the edge of the opening of the support

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

Force-fitting of each end of the spacer into an opening of one of the parts of the mass

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDeformation: Deformation

Data Source

PatentUS9689452B2Method for assembling a pendulum-type damping device and damping device
Publication Date: 2017.06.27 VALEO EMBRAYAGES SAS
  • US9689452B2 patent drawing
  • US9689452B2 patent drawing
  • US9689452B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for assembling a pendulum-type damping device (1) includes the steps of force-fitting a first end of the spacer (17) into an opening (26) of a first part (3a) of a pendulum mass (3). A support (2) is positioned so that the spacer (17) spans a corresponding opening of the support (2). A roller is positioned between the spacer (17) and the edge of the opening of the support (2). The second end (17b) of the spacer (17) is force fit into an opening (26) of a second part (3b) of the mass (3).