Reducer Casing Sealing Plug With Integrated Backlash Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gear mechanism casings for power steering systems face complexity and increased manufacturing costs due to the need for complex backlash compensation devices and separate sealing mechanisms, which complicate assembly and increase bulk.
Innovation Solution
A compact plug design that integrates a solid hub for sealing, a movably mounted carriage for backlash adjustment, and an orientation member for foolproof positioning, all within a single subset, allowing for simultaneous sealing and backlash compensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate sealing plugs and backlash compensation devices are used, then sealing and backlash compensation functions are achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing plug and backlash compensation device into a single integrated component. The plug includes a hub that seals the orifice and a carriage mounted on the hub that performs backlash compensation by pressing gear toothings together. This merging eliminates the need for separate sealing plugs and backlash compensation devices, reducing part count and simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining both sealing and backlash compensation functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides sealing by plugging the orifice, enables backlash compensation through the movable carriage that presses gear elements together, and includes an orientation member for proper positioning. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require separate dedicated components for each function.
2Reliability
If complex backlash compensation devices are used, then meshing play is compensated, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The backlash compensation function is merged with the sealing plug structure. The carriage is mounted on the hub and works in conjunction with it, eliminating the need for separate complex backlash compensation mechanisms. This integration simplifies manufacturing by reducing the number of precision-machined components and assembly steps while maintaining effective backlash compensation through the spring-biased movable carriage.
3Reliability
If separate plug and lash compensation mechanism are used, then functional dissociation is achieved, but casing bulk and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the plug and lash compensation mechanism into a single compact assembly that fits within the existing orifice space. The carriage is mounted on the hub and operates within the confines of the plug structure, eliminating the need for additional space in the casing. This integration maintains functional independence through the spring-biased movable carriage while reducing overall volume by eliminating separate mechanisms.
4Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for sealing and backlash compensation, then functional separation is maintained, but assembly operations become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The plug and backlash compensation mechanism are merged into a single pre-assembled unit that can be installed in one operation. The carriage is already mounted on the hub with the spring and guide support in place, eliminating the need for multiple separate assembly steps. This integration maintains functional separation through the movable carriage design while significantly improving assembly productivity by reducing the number of assembly operations required.
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
Simplifies assembly, reduces manufacturing costs, and combines sealing and backlash compensation functions in a compact, easy-to-mount plug, enhancing the operational efficiency and reliability of gear mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-type elastic member interposed between the guide support and the carriage so as to elastically urge said carriage in displacement according to the lash adjustment direction (ZZ′)
Data Source
AI summary
A plug for closing an opening of a casing, the plug including a solid hub, with central axis, as well as a retaining member which ensures the axial attachment of the plug in the opening, the plug including a play-compensating carriage, which is distinct from the hub and which is movably mounted on a guiding support borne by the hub, the guiding support being arranged in such a way as to axially retain the carriage and to guide the relative movement of the carriage with respect to the hub in a direction termed the “play-compensating direction” transverse to the central axis, a spring-type resilient member, arranged between the guiding support and the carriage, and an orientating member arranged so as to orientate the plug, and consequently the play-compensating direction defined by the guiding support, in azimuth around the central axis, according to a predetermined orientation with respect to the casing.