Pivot Axis Extraction with Spring-Controlled Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for manipulating pivoting connections between parts, such as those in aircraft nacelles or engine components, face challenges in efficiently engaging and disengaging axes while controlling the load applied, often requiring complex mechanisms and risking damage to the parts.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring a body with a threaded outer portion, a threaded rod, an expandable clamping ring, and return means, allowing for controlled engagement and disengagement of the axis with a constant load, facilitated by a wing nut, compression nut, and washer system that manages the translation and rotation of components to secure and release the axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a complex mechanism is used to manipulate the axis, then the axis can be engaged and disengaged, but the device complexity increases and operation becomes less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional modules: a body for insertion into the axis orifice, a threaded rod with wing nut for axial positioning, an expandable clamping ring for radial clamping, and return means for load control. Each module performs a specific function, simplifying the overall operation while maintaining effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The expandable clamping ring automatically clamps the axis when the body is inserted, and the return means automatically controls the load during extraction. The wing nut and compression nut allow single-person operation without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems.
2Productivity
If high load is applied to extract the axis, then extraction speed increases, but the risk of damage to parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The return means (spring) is pre-compressed before axis extraction begins. As the body moves axially during extraction, the spring gradually decompresses, providing a controlled, cushioned force that prevents sudden load spikes and protects the parts from damage while maintaining extraction speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The load applied to the axis is dynamically controlled by the spring compression ratio. By adjusting the initial compression of the return means, the operator can control the maximum load and its rate of application, optimizing both extraction speed and part protection.
3Ease of operation
If manipulation is performed from both sides of the pivoting connection, then control is improved, but operation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed as a single-sided tool that performs all manipulation functions (clamping, extraction, load control) from one side of the pivoting connection. The body inserts into the axis orifice, and all actuating mechanisms (wing nut, compression nut) are accessible from the same side, eliminating the need for dual-sided operation.
4Ease of operation
If the axis is firmly clamped during manipulation, then control is improved, but the load on the axis increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping force is dynamically adjusted during the manipulation process. The expandable clamping ring provides firm clamping when needed (during positioning), while the return means modulates the load during extraction by gradually decompressing. This dynamic control maintains axis control without applying excessive constant load.
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 simple, rapid manipulation of the axis with controlled load application, reducing the risk of damage to parts and streamlining maintenance operations by allowing single-sided operation and precise control of the axis's insertion and extraction.
Implementation Method 1
return means arranged between the compression nut and the support member, the return means being configured to be compressed between the compression nut and the support member by the screwing of the compression nut and to decompress in the second direction under the action of the compression nut
Implementation Method 2
a deformable ring in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis and having at least one groove, the ring being integral with the body, the groove of the ring being configured to be deformed by the tapered shape of the nut when tightening the wing nut
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (30) for manipulating an axis (10) forming a pivoting connection between two parts (12, 14), comprising: - a body (32) configured to be inserted into the axis, and blocked in translation relative to the axis along a longitudinal axis (X1) in a first direction (F1), - a compression nut (54) screwed onto an external threaded portion (50) of the body along the axis (X1) in a second direction (F2) opposite to the first direction, - a support member (58) disposed against one of the parts, and - return means (56) configured to be compressed between the compression nut and the support member by screwing the compression nut and to decompress in the second direction under the action of the compression nut. This device allows for rapid manipulation of the pivot joint axis, and for controlling the load applied to the axis during its manipulation.