Ribbed Belt Connection Pin to Prevent Torque-Induced Loosening
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing belt end connections, particularly in transport and drive belts, face issues with pins working their way out due to torque and tensile forces, leading to weakened connections, potential blockage, and system damage.
Innovation Solution
A connection element with a ribbed surface is used, which engages with the belt material to prevent displacement, featuring a ring-shaped or spiral design with counter-threaded ribs and acute-angle flanks to secure the connection under tension and torque.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If smooth pins or threaded pins are used to connect belt ends, then the connection can be simple and easy to install, but the pins work their way out due to torque and tensile forces, leading to connection failure
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element features an asymmetric rib structure with a first rib having a first flank and a second rib having a second flank, where the flanks are inclined at different angles relative to the longitudinal axis. This asymmetric design creates differential engagement with the belt material, preventing the connection element from rotating or working loose under torque while maintaining ease of installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The rib structures on the connection element provide localized engagement points with specific geometric properties (flank angles, rib spacing) that are optimized for preventing lateral displacement and rotation. These localized features concentrate the anti-loosening function at specific points on the connection element surface, while the rest of the structure remains simple for manufacturing.
2Force
If pins with threading are used to secure belt ends, then the connection can resist tensile forces, but the threading causes the pins to work loose under torque from redirection via rollers
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric rib configuration with flanks inclined at different angles creates a mechanical lock that resists both tensile forces and torque. The differential angles ensure that under torque from roller redirection, the ribs engage more deeply into the belt material rather than allowing the connection element to rotate and work loose.
Solution Approach 2:
The rib flanks are designed with curved surfaces rather than straight edges, allowing for gradual engagement and distribution of stresses. This curvature enables the connection element to accommodate both tensile loading and rotational forces without creating stress concentration points that would lead to loosening.
3Adaptability or versatility
If connection elements rotate under applied torque, then they can accommodate redirection forces, but this rotation causes the connection element to work its way out of the belt end
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric rib structure with differently inclined flanks converts the rotational motion from torque into deeper engagement with the belt material. The connection element can accommodate torque by allowing the ribs to press into the belt at different angles, but the asymmetric geometry prevents complete rotation that would cause the element to work loose.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the harmful effect of torque-induced rotation into a beneficial self-locking mechanism. The asymmetric ribs are designed so that torque causes the connection element to press the ribs into the belt material more firmly, transforming the loosening force into a tightening effect that enhances grip and prevents the element from working out.
4Reliability
If the rib structure is complex with multiple flanks and angles, then the connection stability improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex rib structure is localized to specific regions of the connection element, with the first and second ribs positioned at defined locations and orientations. This localized complexity provides the necessary stability while keeping the overall structure relatively simple and manufacturable, as only specific portions of the connection element require precision rib formation.
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
The ribbed connection element maintains stability and prevents lateral slippage, ensuring a secure and form-fit connection that withstands high forces and torque, reducing downtime and damage risks.
Implementation Method 1
at least one rib is provided on the surface of the connection element, which can be brought into engagement with the belt material
Implementation Method 2
the rib is held in place through engagement with the belt material and is secured against displacement within the belt end
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a connection element, more particularly a connection pin, for connecting belt ends (15), more particularly driving belts, transport belts, drive belts or toothed belts, wherein at least one protrusion (12, 22) is provided on the surface of the connection element (11, 21), which protrusion can be brought into contact with and into engagement with the belt material. The invention also relates to a belt connection for connecting a plurality of belt ends (15) by means of at least one connection element (11, 12) of this type, wherein the connection element (11, 21) penetrates and thereby connects all the belt ends (15).