Rigid Axle Mounting via Thermomechanical Keying
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current axle support assemblies require disassembly of the entire assembly for maintenance or replacement of individual components, leading to complex and costly operations due to firm securing methods like welding or keying.
Innovation Solution
A support assembly with a flange element that uses thermomechanical keying for secure attachment of the axle, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly of components without conventional fastening systems, and featuring adaptable arm shapes for various vehicle frames.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the axle is firmly secured to the arm elements by keying or welding, then the strength and stability of the connection is improved, but the ease of repair and maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into modular components: the arm element with its longitudinal slot, the separate key element that can be inserted/removed, and the axle. This segmentation allows the key to be easily extracted for maintenance while maintaining a strong connection during operation, resolving the contradiction between connection strength and maintenance ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces permanent mechanical connections (welding, traditional keying) with a removable key system that uses elastic deformation of the arm element. The key is held in place by elastic constraints rather than permanent bonding, allowing easy removal and reinstallation while maintaining connection integrity during use.
2Reliability
If conventional fastening systems are used to secure the axle, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is merged into the arm element itself through the longitudinal slot and elastic constraints that are integral parts of the arm's structure. The key works in conjunction with these built-in features rather than requiring separate fastening components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm element's elastic properties provide self-contained constraints that automatically hold the key in position without additional fastening hardware. The elastic deformation and recovery of the arm material creates inherent locking and unlocking mechanisms, eliminating the need for complex external fastening systems.
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
Enables easy and quick maintenance or replacement of individual components, optimizing production processes and accommodating different vehicle frame configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The axle body, secured and firmly fixed via exclusively thermomechanical keying, is adapted to be inserted in the hollow portion 10'
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~9
AI summary
A support assembly (G) for an axle (1), comprises means (4) with connection arms supporting said axle (1) defined by at least a first arm element (5) and, preferably but not limited to, by a second arm element (6), and by single connecting flange means (8, 10) adapted to be secured to said first and second arms (5, 6), in order to securely connect said first and second arms (5, 6), and also adapted to support said axle (1) in a fix and rigid manner.