Tab-Notch Riveted Joint for Higher Torque Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Standard geometric profiles for riveted joints limit the torque transfer capability and holding capacity, which is inadequate for equipment requiring enhanced strength and durability.

Innovation Solution

The use of non-standard geometric shapes with a plurality of tabs and notches around the periphery of the openings in riveted joints, allowing for rotational interlocking and increased surface area contact when aligned and riveted, enhancing the joint's torque transfer and holding capacity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If standard geometric profiles (e.g., hex opening) are used for riveted joints, then the joint can be easily manufactured, but the torque transfer capability and holding capacity are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque transfer capabilityVSAvoidopening geometry complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The opening periphery is segmented into multiple tabs and notches instead of using a standard geometric profile. This segmentation creates multiple interlocking points that significantly enhance torque transfer capability while maintaining manufacturability through standardized forming processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The opening geometry uses asymmetric tab and notch configurations that are specifically designed to interlock in a predetermined orientation. This asymmetric design provides superior torque transfer in the intended rotation direction while allowing for easy manufacturing through dedicated tooling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Reliability

If standard geometric profiles are used for riveted joints, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the holding capacity is insufficient for equipment requiring enhanced durability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding capacityVSAvoidopening formation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The tab and notch features are pre-formed in the openings before the riveting process. This preliminary action ensures that the interlocking geometry is already in place, allowing for enhanced holding capacity without adding complexity to the actual riveting operation itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The opening geometry parameters are changed from standard profiles to custom tab-notch configurations. These parameter changes are implemented through modified forming tools or machining processes, achieving enhanced reliability while keeping the manufacturing approach consistent with existing capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Strength

If tabs and notches are added around the periphery of openings, then the rotational interlocking and torque transfer are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotational interlocking capabilityVSAvoidjoint structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tab and notch features are integrated directly into the opening geometry rather than being separate components. This merging approach provides rotational interlocking capability while avoiding the complexity of additional parts, fasteners, or assembly steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The tab-notch configuration serves multiple functions: it provides rotational interlocking, enhances torque transfer, and maintains structural integrity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional features or components, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11076530B2Riveted joint and method of forming the same
Publication Date: 2021.08.03 HONDA MOTOR CO LTD
  • US11076530B2 patent drawing
  • US11076530B2 patent drawing
  • US11076530B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A riveted joint is described herein. The riveted joint includes a first component and a second component. The first component includes a first opening, and a plurality of first tabs and a plurality of first notches defined along a periphery of the first opening. The second component includes a second opening aligned with the first opening. The second component further includes a plurality of second tabs defined along a periphery of the second opening, wherein at least one second tab is aligned with at least one first notch to define an interlock zone when the first and second components are in a predetermined orientation relative to each other. The joint also includes a rivet extending through the first and second openings. The rivet is configured to secure the at least one second tab within the at least one first notch such that the first and second components are rotationally interlocked.