Polymeric Target Assembly Retention in Piston Bore
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing target assemblies for sensor systems in dual clutch transmissions face challenges in long-term retention within axial bores, especially in hostile hydraulic fluid environments, which can lead to assembly difficulties and reduced lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A polymeric alignment positioning cylinder is inserted into the piston bore, featuring angled annular barbs that lock into the helical groove of the piston bore, providing secure retention and long-term stability within the axial bore.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a polymeric target assembly is used in a hydraulic fluid environment, then the assembly process is simplified, but the retention and lifespan of the target assembly deteriorates due to degradation in hostile environments
Solution Approach 1:
The target assembly is divided into separate components: a polymeric target body and a separate retainer ring. The retainer ring is inserted into the polymeric body to provide mechanical retention. This segmentation allows the polymeric portion to maintain ease of assembly while the metal retainer ring provides reliable long-term retention in the hostile hydraulic environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer ring acts as an intermediary component between the polymeric target assembly and the piston bore. It provides a mechanical interface that ensures reliable retention without requiring the polymeric material itself to withstand the full demands of the hostile environment, thus resolving the contradiction between assembly ease and retention reliability.
2Ease of operation
If a polymeric target assembly is used, then assembly is easier, but the target assembly may degrade in hostile hydraulic fluid environments over time
Solution Approach 1:
The target assembly is segmented into a polymeric target body and a separate retainer ring component. This allows the polymeric portion to be easily assembled while the retainer ring provides long-term structural integrity and retention, extending the overall lifespan of the assembly in hostile environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The target assembly uses a composite structure combining polymeric material with a metal retainer ring. This composite design leverages the ease of assembly and sensing properties of the polymeric material while the metal retainer ring provides enhanced durability and extended lifespan in the hostile hydraulic fluid environment.
3Reliability
If the target assembly is designed for secure retention, then long-term stability is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer ring is designed to be inserted into the polymeric target body through a simple interference fit or snap-fit mechanism. The retainer ring itself performs the retention function without requiring additional fasteners, adhesives, or complex assembly steps. This self-service design achieves secure long-term retention while minimizing assembly complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
A sensor target assembly is provided for a body having an axial bore. The sensor target assembly includes a polymeric alignment positioning cylinder for insertion into the bore. Target material is provided which is mounted to the alignment positioning cylinder. The alignment cylinder can optionally have annular barbs.