Rotary Damper Torque Adjustment Without End-Side Tool Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotary dampers require a tool to adjust torque, necessitating removal from devices for adjustment, making it difficult to adjust torque without a secure space for the tool to access the slotted groove.
Innovation Solution
A rotary damper design with a torque adjustment member that includes a knob protruding from the casing for manual adjustment, allowing torque adjustment without tools, and a detachable operation member for reduced size and weight post-adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a slotted groove is formed on the end surface of the torque adjustment disc for tool-based torque adjustment, then torque adjustment function is provided, but a secure space on the end portion side of the casing is required for tool access, which limits installation flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the access dimension from axial (end surface) to radial (outer periphery). Instead of accessing the torque adjustment mechanism through the end surface where space may be limited, the operation member with knob portion allows access from the radial direction, providing alternative space utilization and improving installation flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation member acts as an intermediary between the user and the torque adjustment mechanism. The engagement portion connects to the torque adjustment member internally, while the knob portion extends externally for user operation, mediating the interaction and eliminating the need for direct tool access to the slotted groove.
2Ease of operation
If a torque adjustment disc with slotted groove is used, then torque can be adjusted, but the operation member and engagement portion increase the device size and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The operation member integrates multiple functions: the engagement portion connects to the torque adjustment mechanism, the guide portion provides rotational guidance, and the knob portion enables user operation. By merging these functions into a single component, the design achieves tool-free adjustment without requiring separate adjustment mechanisms that would increase weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation member serves multiple purposes: it transmits user input torque to the torque adjustment member, provides rotational guidance through the guide portion, and offers an ergonomic interface through the knob portion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, thereby controlling weight while maintaining ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If the operation member with guide portion is provided, then rotational guidance and ease of operation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operation member is segmented into distinct functional portions: the engagement portion for mechanical connection, the guide portion for rotational guidance, and the knob portion for user operation. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity through the integration of all portions into a single component.
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 torque adjustment without tools, even in confined spaces, and allows for the rotary damper to be reduced in size and weight after adjustment, enhancing its attachment flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a viscous fluid that internally fills the pressure chamber
Implementation Method 2
a valve mechanism that forms a large flow path of the viscous fluid around the shaft portion if the rotary member is rotated in one direction, and that applies a braking torque to the rotation of the rotary member by closing the large flow path if the rotary member is rotated in the other direction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3F
AI summary
There is provided a torque adjustment function-provided rotary damper capable of easily adjusting a torque without needing to use a tool, even in a case where a space cannot be secured on an end portion side of a casing. An adjustment lever 6 configures an operation member having an engagement portion 6a and a knob portion 6c. The engagement portion 6a is linked with an adjuster 5 by engaging with an adjustment end portion 5e in such a way that a cutout 6b is fitted to a fitting portion 5g. The knob portion 6c is formed integrally with the engagement portion 6a by protruding in a radial direction from an outer periphery side of a casing 2. The knob portion 6c extends to a guide portion 6d along an axial direction of the casing 2 in the outer periphery of the casing 2. The guide portion 6d configures an operation member 6, and has a semi-ring shape which is partially cut out. The guide portion 6d is rotatably disposed along an outer periphery of a shaft side cap 7 that closes an end portion of the casing 2.