Spline-Coupled Rotary Transmission for Axial Misalignment Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotational force transmission devices fail to effectively absorb dimensional variations between the axial directions of a flexible wire and an output shaft, leading to potential coupling failures.
Innovation Solution
A rotational force transmission device comprising an input-side and output-side transmission members with splined portions and an elastic member that absorbs dimensional variations, ensuring secure transmission of rotational force through slidable coupling and locking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a leading-end portion of the flexible wire is inserted into a recess and is fittingly locked, then the coupling between the output shaft and flexible wire is secured, but dimensional variations leading to crossing of axial directions cannot be absorbed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the coupling mechanism from a rigid fitting lock to a flexible ball-point interface. The ball point on the output shaft can rotate and adjust its position within the spherical socket, allowing the coupling to adapt to dimensional variations and angular misalignments while maintaining reliable force transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static fitting lock to a dynamic ball-point connection. The ball point can move dynamically within the spherical socket to accommodate dimensional variations and angular deviations, enabling the system to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining coupling reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an elastic member is introduced to absorb dimensional variations, then adaptability to dimensional variations is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simple elastic member (spring) to provide the necessary elasticity for absorbing dimensional variations. This single component change adds minimal complexity while effectively enabling the coupling to accommodate axial and angular deviations between the output shaft and flexible wire.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member acts as an intermediary element between the output shaft and flexible wire, absorbing dimensional variations and protecting the coupling from stress. This intermediary component simplifies the overall design by providing a dedicated element for handling dimensional mismatches without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
3Reliability
If splined portions are added to transmission members for sure rotational force transmission, then power transmission reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission members are segmented with splined portions that provide multiple engagement points for rotational force transmission. This segmentation allows the components to be manufactured using standard splining processes and assembled through straightforward engagement, balancing reliable power transmission with manufacturing feasibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The splined portions serve multiple functions: they transmit rotational force reliably, provide guidance for axial movement, and enable easy assembly through engagement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby simplifying manufacturing despite the added feature.
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 effectively absorbs dimensional variations, ensuring reliable transmission of rotational force while improving assemblability and reducing separation between components.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member providing an elastic force to make the input-side transmission member and the output-side transmission member displaced apart from each other along the central axis direction
Data Source
AI summary
A rotational force transmission device configured to transmit a rotational force and applied to a vehicle seat apparatus. The rotational force transmission device includes an input-side transmission member having a ball point, an output-side transmission member slidably coupled to the input-side transmission member and having a ball point, and an elastic member providing an elastic force to make the input-side transmission member and the output-side transmission member displaced apart from each other along a central axis direction.