Rod End Locking Mechanism for Torque-Efficient Strut Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rod end mechanisms in the aerospace industry face challenges such as cost-intensive production, difficulty in installing securing clips, and the need to overcome torque during assembly, leading to insufficient usability.
Innovation Solution
A rod end with a locking mechanism comprising a female torque locking element and a male torque locking element that engage in a form-fitting connection, activated by a spring and release clip, allowing for easy activation and reduced torque requirement during length adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional locking mechanisms with multiple securing clips are used, then higher torques can be transmitted, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking functions into a single integrated locking clip that works together with one detent element. This single locking mechanism replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate securing clips, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the capability to transmit higher torques through the optimized geometry and material of the unified locking structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking clip is designed with specific geometric segments and features including a first leg, second leg, and intermediate portion with optimized cross-section. This segmentation of the locking clip into functional zones allows each part to contribute to torque transmission while keeping the overall structure simple and manufacturable.
2Strength
If additional securing clips are added to transmit higher torques, then torque capacity increases, but installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple locking functions into a single integrated locking clip assembly, the patent eliminates the need for installing multiple separate securing clips. This unified approach maintains high torque transmission capability while significantly simplifying the installation process to require only one locking clip installation operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking clip is designed to be self-contained with all necessary locking features integrated into a single component that can be installed as one unit. The intermediate portion with optimized cross-section provides inherent structural strength, eliminating the need for additional supporting clips or complex assembly procedures.
3Reliability
If torque-resistant locking devices are used, then locking reliability improves, but usability during assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism incorporates a spring element that provides dynamic, resilient locking action. The spring allows the locking elements to engage with controlled force, maintaining reliable locking while accommodating assembly tolerances and reducing the effort required during installation. The elastic properties of the spring enable the locking mechanism to be both strong and easy to operate.
4Reliability
If torque is applied during assembly to overcome locking device resistance, then secure locking is achieved, but assembly time and effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element provides dynamic, resilient locking action that accommodates assembly tolerances and reduces the effort required during installation. The spring's elastic properties allow the locking mechanism to engage with controlled force, achieving secure locking without requiring excessive assembly time or effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the geometric parameters of the locking clip including the cross-sectional dimensions of the intermediate portion, the dimensions of the legs, and the positioning of the locking elements. These parameter optimizations reduce the friction and resistance during assembly while maintaining the locking security, thereby reducing assembly time and effort.
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 solution provides a cost-effective, easily activatable, and torque-efficient locking mechanism that enhances usability and reduces the need for additional torque during assembly, making it suitable for aerospace applications.
Implementation Method 1
The spring element is supported at the first end on a support shoulder formed on the connecting piece and at the second end on the second locking element
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention concerns a rod end that has a locking mechanism where the locking mechanism has an insert, a fork end, a female torque locking element, and a male torque locking element. Upon activation of the locking mechanism, the female torque locking element engages with the male torque locking element in a form-fitting connection. The locking mechanism of the present invention can easily be activated and is capable of withstanding a torque.