Valve Assembly Locking Connection Prevents Unscrewing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve stem and throttle body connections via screw threads are not loss-proof, leading to potential unscrewing issues.
Innovation Solution
A latching connection using pretensioned snap-in means, such as open rings or snap rings, that create a form-fitting connection by snapping into corresponding grooves, providing a restoring force to prevent unscrewing, with the latching means arranged on the valve stem and recesses on the throttle body or shank, ensuring a secure axial fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a screw thread connection is used between valve stem and throttle body, then material-independent connection and ease of assembly are improved, but loss-proof reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a screw thread connection with a separate locking mechanism (locking element and locking recess) to achieve both ease of assembly and loss-proof reliability. The locking element engages with the locking recess to prevent unscrewing while the screw thread provides the primary connection, allowing material-independent assembly without compromising security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element acts as an intermediary component between the valve stem and throttle body, providing the loss-proof function without interfering with the screw thread connection. This mediator enables the system to achieve both ease of assembly through the screw thread and reliability through the locking mechanism.
2Reliability
If locking pins or welding are used to prevent throttle body loss, then loss-proof reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct components (locking element and locking recess) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation simplifies the overall structure compared to integrated locking solutions while maintaining loss-proof reliability through the modular locking arrangement.
3Reliability
If plastic deformation or welding is used to connect throttle body and valve stem, then loss-proof connection is improved, but ease of manufacture and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses parameter changes in the form of thread engagement and locking element positioning to achieve loss-proof connection without permanent deformation or welding. This allows manufacturing flexibility and adaptability while maintaining reliability through controlled mechanical parameters of the locking mechanism.
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
The solution provides a loss-proof connection that prevents axial mobility of the throttle body relative to the valve stem, ensuring secure attachment and protection against unscrewing, with simple final assembly and optional material differences in components.
Implementation Method 1
The locking connection comprises locking elements which are pre-tensioned during the connection process and, due to the restoring force, engage in corresponding recesses opposite to the pre-tension direction
Implementation Method 2
a locking connection which engages due to a restoring force and creates a positive-locking connection
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a valve assembly (10) comprising a valve stem (12, 52) and a throttle body (14, 54); the valve stem (12, 52) and the throttle body (14, 54) can be connected by a screwable thread; furthermore, a locking connection (20, 38, 56) is provided that locks as a result of a restoring force and establishes a form-fitting connection by which the throttle body (14, 54) and the valve stem (12, 52) are connected.