Tolerance Compensation Spring Element With Radial Claw Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spring elements for tolerance compensation devices require excessive effort to install due to barbs on the axial end sides, which can lead to accidental removal and loss after installation, as the barbs lose their locking function when moved slightly out of the passage.
Innovation Solution
A spring element with axial webs and a connecting ring, featuring claw sections spaced apart from the end sections, allowing easier insertion and secure locking within the passage, as the claw sections extend obliquely and project radially to engage over a longer distance, preventing removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If barbs are formed on the axial end sides of the spring element to prevent accidental removal, then the spring element is securely held in the passage, but excessive effort is required to install the spring element and the barbs lose their locking function when the spring element is moved slightly out of the passage
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is divided into distinct functional zones: axial webs for structural support, intermediate sections for torque transmission, and claw sections for secure locking. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function optimally without interfering with others, resolving the contradiction between secure locking and easy installation.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of placing locking barbs at the axial ends of the spring element (conventional approach), the invention inverts the design by positioning claw sections on the connecting rings that extend radially outward. This inversion allows the locking function to be achieved without the installation problems associated with end-side barbs.
2Reliability
If barbs are formed on the axial end sides of the spring element, then the spring element claws into the passage to prevent accidental removal, but the barbs can no longer fulfill their locking function if the spring element is moved slightly out of the passage
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from axial barbs (one-dimensional approach) to radially extending claw sections on connecting rings (two-dimensional approach). This dimensional change allows the spring element to maintain its locking function even when slightly displaced axially, as the radial claws continue to engage with the passage wall.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the locking features: instead of axial barbs with limited engagement distance, radially extending claw sections are provided with extended engagement surfaces. This parameter change increases the tolerance to axial displacement while maintaining reliable anti-removal function.
3Reliability
If the spring element is designed with radial barbs for secure locking, then the spring element cannot be accidentally pulled out, but excessive force is required during insertion due to immediate engagement of barbs with the passage
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is designed so that during insertion, the connecting rings with claw sections are compressed elastically beforehand, storing energy and reducing the insertion force required. Once inserted, the elastic recovery provides the secure locking action, separating the insertion phase from the locking phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting rings are designed as flexible elastic elements that can deform during insertion to reduce engagement resistance, then recover to provide secure locking. This flexibility allows easy insertion while maintaining strong anti-removal capability.
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 spring element is easier to install and securely held in place, reducing the risk of accidental removal, as the claw sections engage effectively over a longer distance, ensuring the spring element remains securely locked within the tolerance compensation device.
Implementation Method 1
The spring element (10) is made of an elastic material and has a waisted design, allowing it to be compressed during insertion and then recover to engage the claw sections with the passage
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a spring element for a device for compensating for tolerances between a first component and a second component, wherein the spring element comprises: at least two axial webs extending in the direction of a longitudinal center axis of the spring element and spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction of the spring element, each of which, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal center axis of the spring element, has two opposite end sections connected by an intermediate section, wherein the end sections of an axial web have at least approximately the same radial distance from the longitudinal center axis of the spring element and the intermediate section arranged between these end sections has a different radial distance from the longitudinal center axis; and at least one connecting ring which connects the axial webs to one another.