Wire Lock Ring Insertion Tool Kit for Piston Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools for installing wire lock rings in internal combustion engines are cumbersome, require excessive force, and can cause stress to engine components, and are not adaptable for use in restricted spaces.
Innovation Solution
A simple hand tool kit comprising a sleeve/tube and plunger that allows the wire lock ring to be compressed and inserted into the piston bore without needing to apply force directly to the engine, enabling easy insertion at various angles and reducing the risk of damage to components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If existing tools are used to install wire lock rings, then the wire lock ring can be installed, but excessive force is required and stress is caused to engine components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized installation tool that acts as an intermediary between the installer and the wire lock ring. This tool includes a compression device with jaws that grip the wire lock ring and a pushing member that applies force through the piston pin bore, distributing the installation force properly and eliminating the need to apply excessive direct force to engine components.
Solution Approach 2:
The installation tool is divided into distinct functional segments: a compression device with gripping jaws for holding the wire lock ring, a pushing member for applying installation force, and a handle for operator control. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall installation force requirements.
2Ease of operation
If existing tools are used to install wire lock rings, then the installation can be completed, but the tools are cumbersome and awkward to use
Solution Approach 1:
The tool incorporates dynamic elements including a movable compression device that can open and close on the wire lock ring, and a pushing member that can be advanced and retracted. This dynamic design allows the tool to adapt to the installation process automatically, improving ease of operation while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized mechanical movements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing tools are used to install wire lock rings, then the installation can be performed, but the tools are too large for use in restricted areas
Solution Approach 1:
The tool design nests components within each other: the compression device can be collapsed around the wire lock ring, the pushing member can be stored within the tool body when not in use, and various parts can be disassembled and stored in nested configurations. This nesting approach minimizes the tool's volume when stored or transported while maintaining full functionality during operation in restricted spaces.
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 reduces assembly time, minimizes worker fatigue, prevents damage to engine components, and allows for use in tight spaces, ensuring safe and efficient installation of wire lock rings across various piston profiles without causing stress to the engine.
Implementation Method 1
allows the wire lock ring to be compressed and inserted into the piston bore
Implementation Method 2
the wire lock ring is a standard in the industry that exists and its insertion must be addressed
Data Source
AI summary
A process is disclosed for inserting a piston pin wire lock ring, particularly Circlips, into a locking groove of a wrist pin bore of a piston. The wire lock ring is radially pre-compressed and thus reduced in size in such a manner that its outside diameter is smaller than the inner diameter of the piston wrist pin bore, by insertion of the ring into a sleeve/tube. While still in the sleeve/tube, the wire lock ring is subsequently inserted, in its compressed state, into the pin bore where it is then uncompressed and released into the locking groove of the piston bore through the use of a plunger inserted in the sleeve/tube to push the lock ring past the end of the sleeve/tube.