Dynamic Seal Installation Tool Using Cam-Driven Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manual installation methods for vehicle door seals cause operator fatigue and result in poor seal fit due to reduced effort, leading to quality issues.
Innovation Solution
A flexible dynamic seal installation tool with a rotary drive source and spring-loaded block mechanism that applies a vibrating motion to install seals efficiently, mimicking operator effort and ensuring proper fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual installation method is used, then operator can install seal, but operator fatigue increases and seal fit quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanical vibration through a cam mechanism that converts rotational motion into reciprocating linear motion of a push block. This vibration assists the operator in installing the seal by reducing friction and guiding the seal onto the flange, thereby maintaining seal fit quality while reducing operator fatigue.
Solution Approach 2:
The push block acts as an intermediary between the operator's manual force and the seal. It concentrates and directs the applying force evenly along the seal's length, ensuring proper seal fit while reducing the physical effort required by the operator.
2Ease of operation
If operator reduces effort to avoid fatigue, then operator comfort improves, but seal tightness deteriorates causing quality issues
Solution Approach 1:
The vibratory motion generated by the cam mechanism reduces the force required by the operator to install the seal, improving operator comfort. Simultaneously, the vibration helps the seal seat properly on the flange, ensuring adequate tightness and preventing quality issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism changes the physical state of the installation process by introducing dynamic reciprocating motion instead of static pushing. This parameter change allows the seal to be installed with reduced force while maintaining proper tightness through the dynamic application of force.
3Ease of operation
If seal is opened to ease installation, then ease of installation improves, but seal tightness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism generates vibratory motion that facilitates seal installation without requiring the seal to be opened. The vibration reduces friction and guides the seal onto the flange, maintaining seal integrity and tightness while improving ease of installation.
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
Reduces operator fatigue and ensures proper seal installation with minimal effort, maintaining seal tightness and improving manufacturing quality.
Implementation Method 1
A flexible dynamic seal installation tool with a rotary drive source and spring-loaded block mechanism that applies a vibrating motion to install seals efficiently
Implementation Method 2
spring-loaded block changing the rotation into a linear back and forth motion
Implementation Method 3
applies a vibrating motion to install seals efficiently, mimicking operator effort
Data Source
AI summary
An installation tool for application of a flexible dynamic seal such as weatherstrip to an end flange of a vehicle. It includes a rotary drive source to rotate a double-sided cam (could be three-sided as well) that pushes on a spring-loaded block changing the rotation into a linear back and forth motion. This spring-loaded block is attached to a plastic pad that is applied to the seal to transfer the motion on the seal and mimics the operator pushing the seal to install.