Tolerance Compensation Assembly with Independent Axial Nut Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for compensating tolerances between components often require complex mechanisms and materials, leading to unnecessary force flows and material constraints, particularly when using springs or specific materials like metals.
Innovation Solution
A device with a second nut element that synchronizes threaded engagements between a connecting element and a compensating element, allowing axial movement independently of the compensating element, thereby avoiding force flows and enabling the use of plastic materials for the compensating and base elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring element is used to create frictional connection between the connecting element and the axial compensating element, then axial tolerance compensation is achieved, but the device complexity increases and material constraints are imposed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the spring element from the force flow path by introducing a second nut element that engages directly with the connecting element. This extraction eliminates the need for frictional connections and spring mechanisms, simplifying the device while maintaining axial tolerance compensation through direct threaded engagement between the second nut element and connecting element
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the force flow path by creating a separate engagement path through the second nut element. The connecting element engages with both the first nut element (for clamping) and the second nut element (for synchronization), dividing the functional requirements into distinct engagement zones that operate independently
2Strength
If the connecting element is tightened to create clamping connection, then the two components are fixed together, but clamping loads or tension are created between the compensating element and the base element
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the compensating element and base element from the force flow path by introducing the second nut element as an intermediate engagement point. The clamping force is directed exclusively through the connecting element to the second nut element, preventing force transmission to the compensating element and base element, thereby eliminating unwanted clamping loads while maintaining the clamping connection
3Strength
If the compensating element and base element are made of metal to handle force flows, then strength is improved, but weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the compensating element and base element from the force flow path, allowing them to be made from lightweight materials like plastic without compromising structural integrity. The second nut element serves as the sole load-bearing component for clamping forces, enabling the other elements to be optimized for function rather than strength, thereby reducing weight and cost
4Ease of operation
If the thread starts of the connecting element and the first nut element are synchronized, then proper engagement is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the second nut element as an intermediary that engages with the connecting element before the first nut element. This intermediary provides a reference engagement point that guides the connecting element into proper alignment, automatically synchronizing the thread starts with the first nut element and reducing manufacturing precision requirements
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
This solution simplifies tolerance compensation by synchronizing threaded engagements without applying force to the compensating element, allowing for plastic material usage and reducing the complexity of force flows during assembly and operation.
Implementation Method 1
a correspondingly partial third thread engagement between the second nut element and the connecting element during assembly and screwing of the connecting element into the device, and a force-fit connection is established
Implementation Method 2
The force of the connecting element, especially a connecting screw, clamps the second nut element and one of the components together, fixing them in place
Implementation Method 3
a torque is exerted on the axial compensating element which causes the compensating element to turn axially out of the base element in the opposite direction to the insertion of the connecting screw and thus compensates for axial tolerances
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for compensating for tolerances between two components (2, 3) to be joined together, comprising: - a hollow cylindrical base element (4), - a hollow cylindrical compensating element (5) which engages with the base element (4) in a first threaded engagement (G1) and which can be moved from a starting position (AP1) to a compensating position (AP2) by rotation relative to the base element (4), and - a connecting element (6) extending through a first cavity (H1) of the device (1) for connecting the two components (2, 3), wherein the connecting element (6) engages with one of the components (2) and/or a first nut element (8) in a second threaded engagement (G2), and wherein a second nut element (9) is arranged in a recess (52) of the compensating element (5).that when the connecting element (6) is screwed into the device (1) it enters a third thread engagement (G3) with the connecting element (6), wherein when the connecting element (6) is screwed into one of the components (2, 3) and/or into the first nut element (8) the second nut element (9) is at least partially independently of the compensating element (5) and axially movable relative to it.