Spring Assembly Axial Fixing Walls
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spring assemblies for automatic transmission clutch mechanisms face issues with securely fixing coil springs to substrates, leading to potential detachment under axial tensile force and complex manufacturing processes.
Innovation Solution
A spring assembly design featuring inner and outer walls formed on the substrate to prevent the end turn portion of the coil spring from coming off axially and moving radially, with these walls functioning as both fixing and support structures, simplifying manufacturing and enhancing substrate rigidity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the end turn portion of the coil spring is inserted into a cylindrical projecting portion and the distal opening edge is flared to stake the end turn portion, then the coil spring is fixed to the annular plate, but under large axial tensile force the end turn portion may expand to climb over the distal opening edge and the coil spring may come off
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from a single-cylindrical projecting portion to a dual-wall structure (inner wall and outer wall) that provides fixation in both axial and radial dimensions. The inner wall prevents axial displacement while the outer wall restrains radial expansion, creating a multi-dimensional constraint system that stops the end turn portion from climbing over under axial tensile force.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing structure is segmented into two distinct functional walls: the inner wall dedicated to preventing axial movement and the outer wall dedicated to preventing radial movement. This segmentation allows each wall to be optimized for its specific function, with the inner wall extending higher to engage the end turn portion axially while the outer wall provides radial containment.
2Reliability
If the end turn portion of the coil spring is broadened in the radial direction and a stepped cover is attached to sandwich the end turn portion, then the coil spring does not come off the substrate, but the manufacturing process becomes cumbersome and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the functions of the substrate, fixing structure, and support structure into a single integrated substrate with inner and outer walls formed directly from it. This eliminates the need for separate stepped covers and broadened end turn portions, reducing the number of components and manufacturing steps while maintaining reliable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner and outer walls formed on the substrate serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide axial and radial fixation for the coil spring, enhance substrate rigidity at the mounting location, and eliminate the need for additional fixing components. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall device structure and manufacturing process.
3Reliability
If additional components such as stepped covers are attached to fix the coil spring, then the coil spring is securely fixed, but the manufacturing process becomes cumbersome and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing structure is merged with the substrate to form an integrated component. The inner and outer walls are formed directly from the substrate material through processes like bending or attaching integrated pieces, eliminating the need for separate stepped covers and simplifying manufacturing while maintaining secure fixation.
Data Source
AI summary
A spring assembly includes a substrate, an inner coil spring, and an outer coil spring arranged outside the inner coil spring. One of the inner coil spring and the outer coil spring includes an end turn portion, the end turn portion forming a support wall for an other of the inner coil spring and the outer coil spring.