Thrust Ring Structure for Axial Clearance Compensation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Flat stop rings provide strong support but cannot compensate for axial clearances, while inclined stop rings can compensate for axial clearances but only bear limited axial forces.

Innovation Solution

A thrust component comprising a stop ring with a stop flat portion and a stop inclined portion, and a position limiting structure with corresponding flat and inclined portions, allowing for adjustable assembly to accommodate axial clearances and bear larger axial forces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a flat stop ring is used, then strong support ability for blocked members is achieved, but axial clearances cannot be compensated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport abilityVSAvoidaxial clearance compensation
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The stop ring is segmented into multiple functional zones: a flat portion (for strong axial support), a first inclined portion (for axial clearance compensation), and a second inclined portion (for additional adjustment). This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function independently, resolving the contradiction between providing strong support and compensating for axial clearances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different portions of the stop ring are given different geometric properties: the flat portion provides rigid support for high axial loads, while the inclined portions provide flexibility for axial clearance compensation. This local differentiation of properties allows the single component to satisfy both contradictory requirements simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Ease of operation

If an inclined stop ring is used, then axial clearances can be compensated, but limited axial forces can be borne

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaxial clearance compensationVSAvoidaxial force bearing capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The stop ring is divided into a flat portion and inclined portions, where the flat portion specifically handles axial force bearing while the inclined portions handle axial clearance compensation. This functional segmentation resolves the contradiction by assigning different tasks to different segments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The flat portion is designed with high rigidity for axial force bearing, while the inclined portions are designed with appropriate angles for clearance compensation. This local quality differentiation enables the component to simultaneously achieve both axial force bearing capacity and axial clearance compensation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If a complex assembly structure is used to achieve both support and clearance compensation, then both functions are achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-functionalityVSAvoidassembly structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple functions (axial support, axial clearance compensation, and position limiting) are merged into a single integrated thrust component. The stop ring with its flat and inclined portions, combined with the position limiting structure, achieves all required functions in one assembly, avoiding the need for multiple separate components and reducing overall assembly complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The thrust component is designed as a universal element that simultaneously provides axial support, compensates for axial clearances, and limits axial position. This multi-functionality is achieved through the integrated design of the flat and inclined portions working together with the position limiting structure, eliminating the need for separate components for each function.

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

Data Source

PatentUS20240280143A1Thrust component, assembly method therefor, and apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.08.22 SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES AG & CO KG
  • US20240280143A1 patent drawing
  • US20240280143A1 patent drawing
  • US20240280143A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A thrust component is used for fixing an engaged member on a housing, said component comprises a stop ring and a position limiting structure; a second outer surface of the stop ring is provided with a stop flat portion and a stop inclined portion; and the position limiting structure is provided with a position limiting flat portion and a position limiting inclined portion at a side thereof oriented toward the second outer surface, and the position limiting flat portion being in abutment with the stop flat portion, and the position limiting inclined portion being in abutment with the stop inclined portion are implemented.