Adjustable Push-Pull Rod Latching for Consistent Anti-Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pull-compression rods with anti-twist devices experience varying spring forces based on the extended position of fastening devices, leading to potential locking failures during dismantling and complex, costly constructions.
Innovation Solution
The integration of locking lugs directly on the spring element ensures a constant spring force and simplified assembly by forming a structural unit with the sleeve and latching lugs, which can be made lightweight and easily produced from plastic, with a groove on the shaft and inwardly directed projections for secure rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring element is used to press locking elements together for anti-rotation, then the locking mechanism can prevent unintentional twisting, but the spring force varies depending on the extension position of the mounting device
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element and locking lugs are merged into a single integral component. The locking lugs are directly formed on the spring element itself, creating a unified structure that eliminates the problem of varying spring force. This integration ensures that the spring force remains constant regardless of the extension position, while maintaining the anti-rotation locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the locking force to prevent rotation, and its integrated locking lugs engage with corresponding grooves to maintain the locked position. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate locking components and ensures consistent performance across different extension positions.
2Ease of manufacture
If a multi-part construction with sleeve and spring element is used, then the anti-rotation device can be assembled, but the construction becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element and locking lugs are combined into a single integral component, reducing the number of parts from multiple separate components (sleeve, spring element, locking lugs) to a unified structure. This simplification reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining assembly capability.
3Reliability
If the spring element is supported by a support shoulder on the connector, then the anti-rotation mechanism can function, but the locking device and spring element may fall apart during disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the locking lugs directly onto the spring element, the invention creates a more stable configuration where the locking components cannot separate during disassembly. The integral structure ensures that the spring element and locking lugs move together as a unit, preventing the falling apart issue while maintaining the anti-rotation function.
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
This design maintains consistent spring force, simplifies installation, reduces costs, and prevents part loosening or malfunctions, while allowing for adjustable length and easy assembly.
Implementation Method 1
The spring generates sufficient spring force to prevent the locking elements from unintentionally twisting relative to each other
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5a~5b
AI summary
The invention relates to a push/pull rod (10) comprising at least one first fastening device (12) with a coupling element (12a) and a shank (12b) which is arranged on it, at least one first connection piece (18), wherein the first fastening device (12) is connected to the first connection piece (18) such that it can be rotated via a threaded arrangement (30) in order to change the length of the push/pull rod (10), a holding device with first and second holding elements which, as viewed in the axial direction, in each case face one another, interact, and are pressed against one another by means of a spring element (28), wherein the first holding element of the holding device is connected fixedly to the first connection piece (18) for conjoint rotation, and the second holding element is arranged fixedly on the first fastening device (12) for conjoint rotation, wherein the spring element (28) is active between a region on the first connection piece (18) and a region on the second holding element, and the holding elements in the process releasably lock the rotational movement of the first fastening device (12) relative to the first connection piece (18) in a plurality of rotational positions by way of a predefined locking force, wherein the first connection piece (18) comprises a main body (34) and a sleeve (36) which reaches at least in regions around the two holding elements and the spring element (28), to which sleeve (36) the main body (34) is connected, wherein the sleeve (36) has an internal diameter which ensures a relative movement of the holding elements with respect to one another and of the spring element (28), wherein the sleeve (36) is fixed at least in the axial direction with respect to the main body (34), and wherein the first connection piece (18) holds the holding device with the spring element (28) in the two axial directions, the holding device is configured as a latching device (22) with a first latching element (24) and a second latching element (26), wherein the second latching element (26) has a plurality of latching lugs (26a) which engage into latching grooves (24b) of the first latching element (24), and the first latching element (24) likewise has a plurality of latching lugs (24a) which engage into latching grooves (26b) of the second latching element (26). According to the invention, in the case of the second latching element (26), at least one latching lug (40) is arranged fixedly on a spring element (28).