Adjustable Push-Pull Rod Locking Assembly With Constant Spring Force

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing push/pull rod designs suffer from inconsistent spring force for anti-rotation locks, which changes with the extended position of the fastening device, and are prone to parts coming loose during operation.

Innovation Solution

The design incorporates latching lugs directly on the spring element, ensuring a constant spring force and easy adjustability, while also simplifying assembly and preventing part loosening.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a separate spring element is used for the anti-rotation lock, then the latching device can be assembled, but the spring force varies with the extended position of the fastening device and parts may come loose during operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly capabilityVSAvoidspring force consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the spring element and latching lugs into a single integrated unit. The latching lugs are directly formed on the spring element, eliminating the need for separate components. This integration ensures that the spring force remains consistent regardless of the fastening device's extended position and prevents parts from coming loose during operation, as there are no separate parts to detach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the spring element is made adjustable, then the anti-rotation lock can adapt to different positions, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadjustabilityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a dynamic latching mechanism where the latching lugs on the spring element can automatically engage and disengage based on the rotational position of the fastening device. As the fastening device rotates, the latching lugs naturally move into engagement positions at specific intervals, providing automatic adaptability without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or multiple components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 solution maintains a consistent spring force for the anti-rotation lock, enhances adjustability, and reduces assembly costs by preventing part loosening and malfunctions.

Implementation Method 1

The spring force generated by the spring is sufficient to prevent the latching elements from unintentionally rotating in relation to each other, which would cause an undesired change in the length of the push/pull rod.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS12276301B2Push/pull rod
Publication Date: 2025.04.15 S FASTENERS GMBH
  • US12276301B2 patent drawing
  • US12276301B2 patent drawing
  • US12276301B2 patent drawing

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 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.