Tolerance Compensation Assembly for Secure Radial Pre-Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tolerance-compensating devices require specific preparation of the first component with latching openings, which can weaken the component and limit pre-mounting flexibility under restricted spatial conditions.
Innovation Solution
A tolerance-compensating device that indirectly latches to a nut element provided on the first component, using a retaining element with a latching portion that can slide onto the component radially, eliminating the need for latching openings and allowing for secure attachment without component modification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the retaining element latches directly to the first component using latching openings, then the pre-mounting is secured, but the first component is weakened and requires specific preparation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a nut element as an intermediary component between the retaining element and the first component. The retaining element latches to the nut element rather than directly to the first component, eliminating the need for latching openings in the first component. This mediator approach maintains pre-mounting security while preserving the integrity of the first component.
2Ease of manufacture
If latching openings are provided in the first component, then the retaining element can be mounted, but the component requires specific preparation and weakening occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The nut element serves as a mediator that eliminates the need for modifying the first component. By latching to the nut element instead of the first component directly, the retaining element enables easy pre-mounting without requiring latching openings or any specific preparation of the first component.
3Ease of operation
If the latching portion is designed to slide onto the nut element radially, then pre-mounting is easier under spatial constraints, but the latching mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The latching portion is designed to approach and latch to the nut element from the side (radially) rather than from the end (axially). This lateral approach enables pre-mounting under restricted spatial conditions where axial access is limited, improving ease of operation in constrained environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching portion incorporates resilient latching arms that can flex and spread apart to receive the nut element, then return to a latched position. This dynamic design allows for easy engagement and disengagement while maintaining secure attachment, balancing operational ease with controlled 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 easier and more secure pre-mounting of the tolerance-compensating device on the first component without weakening it, facilitating alignment and handling, especially under spatial constraints, and allowing for automated assembly.
Implementation Method 1
A spring element is arranged in the compensating element, which spring element produces a frictional connection between the connecting screw extending through the passage and the compensating element
Implementation Method 2
A spring element is arranged in the compensating element
Data Source
AI summary
A device for compensating for tolerances between two components to be connected by means of a connecting screw, comprising a base element, a compensating element which can be moved out of the base element, the base element and the compensating element forming a passage for the connecting screw, which passage defines an axial direction, and a retaining element for retaining the base element.