Segmented Retaining Ring Radial Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Spiral retaining rings are difficult to install and remove in applications with long shafts and soft components, as they may damage seals due to space constraints and require axial installation, which is not feasible in all cases.
Innovation Solution
A resilient over-centre retaining ring formed by a pair of planar annular sector clips with recessed ends, allowing radial installation and self-retention on a cylindrical body, made from deformable materials like stainless steel or copper, with rounded corners for easy fitting and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spiral retaining ring is used for complete annular retention, then complete coverage of the groove surface is achieved, but installation becomes difficult and seals may be damaged due to space constraints and axial installation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining ring is divided into two separate retaining clips that can be installed independently from radial directions, eliminating the difficulty of installing a complete spiral ring axially while maintaining complete annular coverage when both clips are in place
Solution Approach 2:
The installation direction is changed from axial (for spiral rings) to radial (for the two clips), allowing installation from the side rather than from the end of the shaft, which resolves the space constraint problem on long shafts
2Reliability
If a spiral retaining ring is installed on a long shaft, then complete retention is provided, but space constraints prevent maintaining the expanded state during installation
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the retaining ring into two separate clips reduces the volume and space required for installation, as each clip can be compressed and installed independently from radial directions rather than requiring axial space to expand and move along the shaft
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of expanding the retaining ring axially from the end of the shaft, the clips are installed radially from the side of the shaft, inverting the installation approach to accommodate long shafts with limited axial space
3Reliability
If a spiral retaining ring is slid over soft components like O-ring seals, then complete retention is achieved, but the seal may be damaged due to friction and pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining ring is segmented into two clips that are installed separately, allowing careful placement without sliding over soft components, thereby reducing friction and pressure on seals
Solution Approach 2:
The installation process uses intermediate steps where clips are positioned and secured independently, avoiding direct sliding contact with soft seals that would occur with a single spiral ring
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 complete annular retention without damaging seals, reduces installation complexity, and maintains seal integrity by allowing radial installation and self-retention, suitable for various industrial applications including aerospace and downhole tools.
Implementation Method 1
each retaining clip is a resilient over-centre retaining clip configured to self-retain on a substantially cylindrical body
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~7
AI summary
A retaining clip (4) comprising a substantially planar annular sector portion (14) with a sector angle of over 180 ° and having a recess (15) at each end of the sector arc. Also, a retaining ring comprising a pair of the retaining clip (13), wherein the recessed ends cooperate such that the pair of clips form a complete annulus. Also, a method of installing a retaining ring in a groove formed in a component, comprising inserting a first retaining clip into the groove in a substantially radial direction from a first side of the groove, an inserting a second retaining clip into the groove in a substantially radial direction from a second side of the groove opposite the first.