Segmented Coupling Elements with Undercut Grooves for Rotatable Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for components with sliding surfaces lack versatility in creating flexible, rotatable connections, particularly for articulated joints and hinges, as they often require complex assembly and do not allow for easy adjustment or locking of angular positions.
Innovation Solution
The coupling device features segmented coupling elements with annular undercut grooves and complementary part-circular latches that can be rotated to create a strong, rotatable connection, allowing for tool-free assembly and adjustable locking through adjusting devices, enabling flexible construction of joints and hinges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If coupling elements are divided into segments with grooves and latches, then ease of assembly is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling elements are divided into segments that can be assembled separately and then locked together using latches that engage with grooves. This segmentation allows for easier handling and assembly of the coupling device, particularly for articulated connections, while the modular nature enables tool-free assembly through simple engagement of segments with latches.
2Strength
If grooves are made undercut for strong connection, then strength is improved, but ease of manufacture worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The grooves in the coupling elements are designed with undercut profiles featuring curved or dovetail-shaped cross-sections. This curvature creates a self-locking mechanism where the latches engage firmly in the grooves, providing strong rotatable connections. The undercut geometry ensures that the latches cannot easily disengage, creating a secure mechanical interlock that maintains connection strength during rotation and loading.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjusting devices are added for locking positions, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Adjusting devices are integrated into the coupling elements, allowing the latches to be fixed or actively moved within the grooves. This enables the articulated connection to be locked at various angular positions along the groove path, providing adaptability for different application requirements. The adjusting devices can be manually operated or automatically controlled, allowing dynamic repositioning of the connection points while maintaining structural integrity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The device has two coupling elements (10, 12) i.e. circular disks, which are divided into two semicircular segments (16, 18) at a dividing surface (14). The dividing surface runs right-angled to sliding surfaces (24) of the coupling elements. The coupling elements have circular undercut grooves (26, 28, 30, 32) in the sliding surface. The grooves run through the segments and flush with each other. The grooves receive semicircular latch plates (34, 36) whose cross section is complementary to the combined cross sections of the two grooves, where the plates are movable into the grooves.