Threaded Coupler With Friction Brake for Precise Distance Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing couplers for force-transmitting applications lack a simplified structure that ensures improved assembly and precise adjustment of the distance between components.

Innovation Solution

A coupler with a first brake system that allows for sensitive adjustment of the distance between coupling parts through rotational movement of the coupling rod, utilizing a frictionally engaged braking torque to prevent undesired changes in distance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a toothed disc arrangement is used for torque transmission, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adjustment precision and sensitivity are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustment precisionVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the toothed disc mechanical engagement system with a brake system utilizing friction between a brake pad and brake disc. This substitution enables stepless adjustment of the coupling distance through rotational movement of the coupling rod, achieving sensitive and precise distance control while maintaining structural simplicity. The friction-based brake system allows continuous position adjustment unlike the discrete toothed disc engagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If the coupling rod is rotatably connected to both coupling members, then ease of operation is improved, but stability and prevention of undesired distance changes deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of adjustmentVSAvoiddistance stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a brake pad as an intermediary element between the coupling rod and the first coupling member. This brake pad, in contact with a brake disc, provides a braking torque that acts as a stabilizing force to prevent undesired rotational movements of the coupling rod. The intermediary brake system allows the coupling rod to remain rotatably connected for ease of operation while simultaneously providing the necessary stability through friction-based torque transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If a brake system with frictional engagement is introduced, then adjustment sensitivity is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistance adjustment precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the brake system components (brake pad, brake disc, and actuation mechanism) with the existing coupling rod assembly. The brake disc is integrated into the coupling rod structure, and the brake pad is positioned to contact it, combining multiple functions into a unified assembly. This merging approach achieves precise stepless adjustment capability while minimizing the increase in manufacturing complexity by reusing existing structural elements and integrating new components efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 coupler achieves a stepless rotary movement for precise adjustment of the distance between components, while the brake system ensures stability and prevents unwanted changes, thereby enhancing assembly efficiency and reducing manufacturing costs.

Implementation Method 1

the brake system is designed for, in particular exclusively, frictionally engaged braking torque transmission between the first coupling part and the first end portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

the first end portion and the first coupling member forming a first thread arrangement for adjusting a distance between the first coupling member and the second coupling member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS12209616B2Coupler
Publication Date: 2025.01.28 SACS
  • US12209616B2 patent drawing
  • US12209616B2 patent drawing
  • US12209616B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A coupler for force-transmitting coupling of two components, with a first coupling part having a first coupling interface, with a second coupling part having a second coupling interface, and with a coupling rod which is connected with a first end portion rotatably movable about an axis of rotation to the first coupling part and with a second end portion rotatably movable about the axis of rotation to the second coupling part, wherein the first end portion and the first coupling part form a first thread arrangement for adjusting a distance between the first coupling part and the second coupling part, wherein the first thread arrangement is assigned a first brake system, which is designed for a frictional brake torque transmission between the first coupling part and the first end portion.