Threaded Adjustable Spacer for Precise Gap Setting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for adjusting the spacing between components require multiple time-consuming steps, including assembly, measurement, disassembly, and reassembly, especially when dealing with manufacturing tolerances and geometric gaps, and are often complex and costly.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable spacer comprising a support component, a spacing component with a threaded sleeve, and a fixing component, allowing for quick adjustment of spacing between components without disassembly, using a threaded sleeve and counter nut for precise positioning and locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional adjustment methods using laminated shims are used, then spacing adjustment is possible, but the process requires multiple time-consuming steps including assembly, measurement, disassembly, and reassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer is pre-configured with a specific spacing dimension before assembly. The threaded sleeve is pre-threaded onto the support component, and the fixing component is pre-designed to lock at the predetermined spacing position. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for measurement and adjustment steps during assembly, as the correct spacing is built-in from the start.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded sleeve provides dynamic adjustability during assembly by allowing rotational movement to extend or retract the support component, thereby adjusting the spacing. The fixing component then locks this dynamic adjustment at the desired position. This dynamic mechanism replaces static laminated shims and enables quick, reversible adjustments without disassembly.
2Manufacturing precision
If laminated shims are used for spacing adjustment, then gap closing is achievable, but disassembly is required for any subsequent re-adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded sleeve maintains a dynamic, adjustable connection between the support component and the second component. Unlike fixed laminated shims, the threaded mechanism allows the spacing to be extended or retracted by rotating the sleeve, enabling re-adjustment while the components remain assembled. The fixing component can be removed and re-applied at different positions for flexible re-adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing component is designed to be removable and reusable. When re-adjustment is needed, the fixing component is simply removed from the threaded sleeve, the sleeve is rotated to the new position, and the fixing component is re-applied. This replaces the need to discard laminated shims and disassemble components for re-adjustment.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple adjustment steps are performed, then spacing precision can be achieved, but the process becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into a single integrated spacer assembly: the support component provides structural support, the threaded sleeve provides both spacing definition and adjustment capability, and the fixing component provides locking. This merged design replaces the separate laminated shims, measurement tools, and multiple assembly/disassembly operations with one simple installable unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer is designed as an inexpensive, simple mechanical component that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. The threaded sleeve and fixing component are basic machined parts that are cost-effective compared to complex adjustment mechanisms. The simplicity of the design reduces both manufacturing cost and operational complexity.
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
Enables rapid and reversible adjustment of spacing in any direction, reducing time and costs by eliminating the need for disassembly and simplifying the adjustment process.
Implementation Method 1
The spacing component is embodied as a threaded sleeve with an outer thread and comprises tightening slits
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention is related to an adjustable spacer (1) for adjusting a spacing between a first component and a second component to a predefined distance, comprising: a support component (2) configured to be rigidly mounted to the first component; a spacing component (3) movably mounted to the support component (2) for adjusting positioning of the support component (2) relative to the second component; and a fixing component (4) configured for locking the spacing component (3) on the support component (2) after the positioning of the support component (2) relative to the second component at the predefined distance.