Segmented Thrust Collar Measuring Tool for Circlip Press-Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for ensuring a circlip is correctly seated in its groove require additional steps beyond dimension checking, as simply adhering to dimensions does not guarantee proper positioning, necessitating radial re-pressing for secure fixation.
Innovation Solution
A measuring tool with a thrust tube, segmented pressure ring, and guide pins that gauge and press the circlip into place, using a spring arrangement and markings on guide pins to indicate correct seating and apply axial force for secure insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a static gauge is used to check circlip dimensions, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional work steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the gauge and press-in tool into a single integrated measuring tool. The thrust tube with flange area serves both as a measurement reference and as the pressing element, eliminating the need for separate dimension checking and positioning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The measuring tool performs multiple functions: it gauges the circlip dimensions through the flange area contact, positions the circlip radially through the thrust tube geometry, and presses the circlip into the groove. This multi-functional design replaces multiple separate tools and operations.
2Reliability
If radial re-pressing is performed to ensure correct circlip position, then reliability is improved, but the loss of time increases due to additional work steps
Solution Approach 1:
The thrust tube with its specific geometry (flange area, cone area, middle area) is designed to automatically position the circlip correctly in the groove during the pressing operation itself, eliminating the need for subsequent radial re-pressing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The gauging and positioning functions are merged into the pressing operation. The flange area contacts the circlip to gauge dimensions while simultaneously positioning it, and the thrust tube geometry ensures correct groove seating during the same pressing action.
3Ease of operation
If a segmented pressure ring with spring arrangement is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring arrangement provides dynamic, adjustable pressing force that adapts to the circlip and groove geometry. The springs allow the press-in tool to accommodate variations in assembly conditions while maintaining consistent pressing action, improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure ring is divided into multiple segments, each with its own spring and guide pin. This segmentation allows independent operation of each pressing point, enabling better distribution of force and accommodation of slight misalignments, thereby improving ease of operation.
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
The tool simplifies the process by ensuring the circlip adheres to tolerance ranges and is correctly positioned in the groove, allowing for efficient and accurate fixation without additional work steps.
Implementation Method 1
The spring arrangement comprises a plurality of spring elements in the form of compression springs
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
A measuring instrument (1) for gauging and inserting a retaining ring (20), comprising a push tube (2) having a flange region (4), a conical region (8) and a middle region (7), wherein the middle region (7) connects the flange region (4) to the conical region (8), wherein a segmented thrust collar (10) having an internal circumferential surface (12) corresponding to the conical region (8) of the push tubes (2) is arranged on the outer circumference (9) of the conical region (8) of the push tube (2) and wherein the segmented thrust collar (10) is in active contact with the flange region (4) of the push tube (2) by way of a spring arrangement arranged on the outer circumference of the middle region (7) of the push tube (2), and wherein the outer circumference surface (24) of the segmented thrust collar (10) acts as a gauge and as a press-fit part.