Direct Pinion Mount Joint Assembly for Simpler CV Joint Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional constant velocity joint assemblies require complex and costly assembly processes, leading to increased time and costs, and are not cost-efficient or easy to assemble.
Innovation Solution
A direct pinion mount joint assembly with a flexible boot assembly and a nut that includes a nut tool groove and axially extending portions to prevent unscrewing, along with a tool for easy assembly, reducing the complexity and cost of assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional constant velocity joint assemblies are used, then transmission efficiency is maintained, but assembly complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The joint assembly is divided into modular components including a first joint member, second joint member, and third joint members that can be assembled separately and then connected. This segmentation allows for simpler individual component manufacturing while maintaining overall assembly functionality, directly addressing the contradiction between ease of manufacture and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Third joint members serve as intermediary elements that connect the first and second joint members. These intermediaries simplify the overall assembly process by providing standardized connection interfaces, reducing the need for complex specialized equipment while maintaining transmission efficiency.
2Productivity
If conventional constant velocity joint assemblies are used, then operational reliability is maintained, but assembly time and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The first joint member includes pre-formed tool grooves that allow assembly tools to be engaged directly during the assembly process. This preliminary preparation of access features enables faster assembly operations without requiring additional time for tool engagement or complex positioning, directly improving productivity while reducing assembly time losses.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional constant velocity joint assemblies are used, then joint functionality is achieved, but manufacturing costs increase due to specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The joint assembly design employs universal connection interfaces and standardized tool grooves that can be assembled using general-purpose equipment rather than specialized tools. The first and second joint members are designed with complementary features that allow assembly with common manufacturing equipment, reducing equipment costs while maintaining joint functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates simple, easily manufactured components with features like tool grooves that can be produced through standard machining processes. These components are designed for cost-effective manufacturing using inexpensive, readily available materials and standard fabrication methods, reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining operational reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A joint assembly for use in a motor vehicle. The joint assembly includes a first joint member that is drivingly connected to a second joint member via one or more third joint members. At least a portion of the first joint member is drivingly connected to at least a portion of a first shaft and at least a portion of the second joint member is drivingly connected to at least a portion of a second shaft. One or more first joint member tool grooves circumferentially extends along the outer surface of the first joint member. The joint assembly further includes a nut that drivingly connects at least a portion of a third shaft to at least a portion of the second shaft. The nut includes one or more nut tool grooves circumferentially extending along the outer surface of the nut.