Tapered Positioning Assembly for Compact Precision Fixing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing positioning and fixing devices face challenges in achieving further size reduction due to the need for space to fix reference members with bolts or manufacturing limitations with press-fit methods, and elastic members may hinder size reduction.

Innovation Solution

A positioning and fixing device that includes a first mechanism with a cylindrical portion and a tapered protruding portion, and a second mechanism with an annular portion, allowing for press-fit engagement and elastic deformation to achieve precise positioning and fixing, with features like a reference flange and slit portions to enhance elastic deformation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If reference members are fixed by bolts, then the positioning and fixing device can be securely assembled, but the device size increases due to the space required for bolt fixation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixation strengthVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the positioning function and fixing function into a single integrated structure. The positioning member includes both the positioning portion that engages with the positioning hole and the fixing portion that serves as the fastening element, eliminating the need for separate bolts and achieving compact device size while maintaining secure fixation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The positioning member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides positioning accuracy through the positioning portion, structural support through the body, and secure fixation through the fixing portion. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components and reduces overall device size.

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

2Volume of moving object

If reference members are fixed by press-fit method, then the device size can be reduced, but manufacturing limitations prevent further size reduction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidmanufacturing capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning member is divided into distinct functional portions: the positioning portion with the positioning hole, the body portion, and the fixing portion. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining manufacturability through standard pressing processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent optimizes geometric parameters such as the tapered angle of the positioning hole, the dimensions of the fixing portion, and the material properties to enable further size reduction while maintaining press-fit feasibility and manufacturing capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If an elastic member is provided to facilitate deformation of engagement portion, then the positioning can be achieved, but the elastic member hinders size reduction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent achieves positioning accuracy by optimizing geometric parameters such as the tapered angle of the positioning hole and the dimensions of the engagement portion, eliminating the need for separate elastic members while maintaining the required deformation capability for precise positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 achieves a reduced size while maintaining high accuracy and stability in positioning and fixing, overcoming manufacturing limitations and enabling precise alignment of components.

Implementation Method 1

the first tapered surface and the second tapered surface are brought into intimate contact with each other via elastic deformation of the tapered protruding portion toward an inner diameter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4574333A1Positioning and fixing device
Publication Date: 2025.06.25 PASCAL ENG
  • EP4574333A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4574333A1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP4574333A1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

A positioning and fixing device includes a first member (100) fixed to a first mechanism (10), and a second member (200) fixed to a second mechanism (20). The first member (100) includes a tapered protruding portion (110) having a first tapered surface (110A) decreasing in diameter toward the second mechanism (20). The second member (200) includes an annular portion (210) having a second tapered surface (210A) capable of engaging the first tapered surface (110A). When the first mechanism (10) and the second mechanism (20) are brought closer to each other along a first direction to bring a first reference surface (10B) and a second reference surface (20B) into abutment with each other, the first tapered surface (110A) and the second tapered surface (210A) are brought into intimate contact with each other via elastic deformation of the tapered protruding portion (110) toward an inner diameter, whereby the first mechanism (10) and the second mechanism (20) are positioned relative to each other in a plane direction orthogonal to the first direction. A reference portion (130) of the first member (100) protrudes toward an outer diameter beyond the tapered protruding portion (110) along the direction orthogonal to the first direction. A slit portion (110B) that at least partially divides the tapered protruding portion (110) is formed in a circumferential direction of the tapered protruding portion (110).