Self-Centering Hub With Spring-Loaded Locator Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for locating the center of a hole in workpieces are often complex, inconsistent, or too bulky for certain applications, and expanding mandrels may require rework for reuse.
Innovation Solution
A device with a hub and locator elements that self-adjust to center an apparatus over a hole using springs and ramps, allowing easy mounting of tools like inspection equipment or drills, providing consistent and repeatable results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an expanding mandrel is used to locate a hole center, then the device can provide centering capability, but the mandrel may remain in expanded position after repeated use and require rework
Solution Approach 1:
The locator elements are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to expand and retract dynamically. The spring mechanism enables the locators to automatically return to their retracted position after use, eliminating the need for manual rework and ensuring consistent centering capability across repeated uses.
2Measurement precision
If traditional centering devices are used, then hole center location can be achieved, but results may be inconsistent in locating the center of the same sized holes
Solution Approach 1:
The centering device is divided into multiple independent locator elements that can individually engage with the hole wall. This segmentation allows each locator to independently find its optimal position, ensuring consistent and accurate centering results regardless of slight variations in hole geometry or position.
Solution Approach 2:
The locator elements automatically self-adjust to the correct position through spring force and geometric constraints when the device is placed over a hole. This self-centering mechanism eliminates the need for manual adjustment and ensures repeatable results without requiring operator skill or intervention.
3Measurement precision
If available centering devices are used, then center location can be provided, but the devices may be too large or bulky for some applications
Solution Approach 1:
The locator elements are designed to nest within the device body when not in use, with retractable mechanisms that allow them to collapse into the hub structure. This nesting capability significantly reduces the overall device volume when the locators are not engaged, making the device compact and suitable for applications with limited space.
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 device ensures accurate and consistent centering of tools over holes, facilitating machining or inspection operations while being easy to use and adaptable for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
The displacing means may include springs that move the locator elements respectively along the ramps, thereby camming the locator elements outwardly into engagement with the structure
Implementation Method 2
springs that move the locator elements respectively along the ramps, thereby camming the locator elements outwardly into engagement with the structure
Data Source
AI summary
A device locates an apparatus to the center of a hole in a structure. The device includes a hub adapted to have the apparatus mounted thereon and a plurality of locator elements spaced around the hub which extend at least partially into the hole. Means coupled with the locator elements and the hub are used to displace the locator elements outwardly into engagement with the edges of the structure and to move the hub into axial alignment with the center of the hole.