Turbocharger Stage Locking Retaining Ring Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for attaching turbocharger stage components, such as compressor assemblies, are prone to poor quality assembly due to improper torque application and require multiple parts and complex assembly processes, leading to increased costs and manufacturing complexities.
Innovation Solution
A retaining ring with an adjustable circumference is used, disposed within circumferential grooves in two turbocharger stages, allowing for a snap-fit attachment that eliminates the need for clamp plates and bolts, reducing assembly complexity and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If clamp plates and bolts are used to attach turbocharger stages, then the connection strength is sufficient, but the assembly complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated retaining ring that replaces clamp plates and bolts. The retaining ring engages with grooves on both the first and second turbocharger stages simultaneously, providing both connection strength and positioning in one component, thereby reducing assembly complexity while maintaining sufficient connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential fastening function from the complex bolt-and-clamp-plate system and isolates it into a single retaining ring component. By removing unnecessary elements (multiple bolts, clamp plates, threaded holes) and keeping only the critical retention function, the solution simplifies the assembly while maintaining connection integrity
2Strength
If clamp plates and bolts are used to attach turbocharger stages, then the connection is secure, but the manufacturing costs increase due to threaded holes and multiple parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple manufactured parts (clamp plates, bolts, threaded holes) into a single retaining ring component. This consolidation eliminates the need for expensive threaded hole machining in both stages and removes the need for multiple separate fastening components, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining secure connection through the ring's engagement with grooves
3Reliability
If multiple fasteners are used to attach turbocharger stages, then the connection is reliable, but the assembly time and labor increase
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining ring is pre-positioned in a groove on the first turbocharger stage before assembly. During assembly, the ring is simply expanded to engage with the second stage's groove, eliminating the need for sequential tightening of multiple fasteners. This preliminary positioning ensures reliable connection while dramatically reducing assembly time and labor 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 the assembly process, reduces parts and manufacturing costs, and ensures a secure attachment without the need for precise torque application, enhancing the quality and tamper resistance of turbocharger stage connections.
Implementation Method 1
a retaining ring (220) with an adjustable circumference
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a turbocharger assembly lock comprising a retaining ring partially disposed in a circumferential groove of a first turbocharger stage component and partially in a circumferential groove of a second turbocharger stage component so that the turbocharger stages are securely attached to each other.