Spiral-Guided Pressure Gauge Assembly for Reversible Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pressure gauges have a complex structure, require multiple machining steps, are irreversible, and are costly to assemble and maintain due to their metal components, making disassembly and repair difficult.
Innovation Solution
A pressure gauge design featuring a first and second fastener, a rotation member, and a positioning module with a spiral guide groove mechanism that allows easy assembly, disassembly, and precise indication of air pressure using a protruding rib and pointer system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the supporting part is made of metal and punched through a stamping machine to form an inward folded frame edge, then the mounting part, gaskets, and diaphragms are fixed securely, but the assembly method becomes irreversible and requires expensive stamping machine equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting part is made of plastic instead of metal, allowing it to be molded using inexpensive injection molding processes rather than requiring expensive stamping machines. The plastic supporting part achieves sufficient fixing strength through its molded structure while being cost-effective to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical stamping process is replaced with an injection molding process. The inward folded frame edge formed by punching is replaced with a molded recess structure that achieves the same fixing function through a different manufacturing mechanism, eliminating the need for stamping equipment.
2Reliability
If the supporting part is deformed during the working process of the stamping machine, then the supporting part cannot return to the original state, but making it reversible would require cutting or breaking the inward folded frame edge
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting part is designed with a separable structure where the mounting part can be independently removed from the supporting part. The recess in the supporting part allows the mounting part to be inserted and secured, but also easily removed without damaging either component, enabling maintenance and repair.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of forming an outward protruding frame edge that requires cutting to remove, the design uses an inward recess structure. The mounting part fits into the recess and can be easily inserted and removed, reversing the conventional approach and enabling reversible assembly without damage.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the pressure gauge has a complicated structure with too many parts, then the mounting part and supporting part can be securely assembled, but it needs much manual labor for assembly and increases production cost
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting part and supporting part are designed to assemble into a single integrated unit. The recess in the supporting part and the corresponding structure in the mounting part create a snap-fit or interference fit connection that secures the assembly without requiring additional fasteners, screws, or complex joining mechanisms, thereby reducing part count and assembly steps.
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
Facilitates quick installation, simplified assembly and disassembly, reduces manufacturing costs, and enables easy maintenance while providing accurate pressure readings.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic member has a first end mounted on the air hole and a second end abutting a bottom of the rotation member. The air hole is connected to an external air pressure source which introduces an air pressure into the elastic member so that the elastic member is expanded.
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure gauge includes a first fastener, a second fastener, a rotation member, and a positioning module. The first fastener includes a guide portion having a first spiral section and a second spiral section. The second fastener is mounted on the bottom of the first fastener. The rotation member has a shaft provided with a protruding rib and a pointer. The positioning module includes a positioning block having an air hole, and a elastic member having a first end mounted on the air hole and a second end abutting the rotation member. The air hole introduces an air pressure into the elastic member that is expanded and pushes the shaft upward so that the protruding rib and the pointer are rotated and moved upward along the first spiral section and the second spiral section, to precisely indicate visible air pressure values.