Fastening assembly with detachable lock pin and engagement member

Abstract

A lock pin and a joining member for joining articles are provided. The lock pin comprises a head part, a neck part and a base part. The head is positioned over the second component and has a lower surface. The neck portion is connected to a lower surface of the head portion at an upper end thereof, wherein a width of the neck portion is less than a width of the lower surface of the head portion. The base portion is positioned in the first aperture and connected to a lower end of the neck portion opposite the upper end. The engagement member surrounds the neck and is sandwiched between the lower surface of the head and a surface of an article to which the lock pin is connected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a fastening assembly for fastening a first article to a second article, and more particularly to a fastening assembly that can be quickly and easily assembled to and disassembled from the articles. Background Art

[0002] In the past, a common method for joining items to one another was to use ultrasonic welding. However, weld quality in ultrasonic welding is a major issue in various manufacturing settings. Inadequate weld quality can lead to part failure and safety issues. Furthermore, ultrasonic welding methods may not be suitable for items with irregular geometries (e.g., curved surfaces) or for items with welds located within channels with deep, narrow profiles. Furthermore, once items are joined together by welding, the process for undoing the weld is complex and time-consuming. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a container is provided. The container includes a shell, a locking pin, a coupling component, and an accessory. The shell has at least one orifice formed on a side wall of the shell. The locking pin includes a head, a neck, and a base. The head is located in the interior space of the shell and has a lower surface. The neck is connected to the lower surface of the head at its upper end. The width of the neck is smaller than the width of the lower surface of the head. The base is located in the orifice and connected to the lower end of the neck opposite to the upper end. The coupling component surrounds the neck and is clamped between the lower surface of the head and the inner surface of the side wall. The accessory is connected to the base so that the accessory is fixed to the shell via the locking pin and the coupling component.

[0004] According to some other embodiments of the present invention, a fastening assembly is provided. The fastening assembly includes a first component, a second component, a locking pin, and an engaging member. The first component has a first aperture, and the second component is positioned on the first component and has a second aperture aligned with the first aperture. The locking pin includes a head, a neck, and a base. The head is positioned above the second component and has a lower surface. The neck is connected to the lower surface of the head at its upper end. The width of the neck is less than the width of the lower surface of the head. The base is positioned in the first aperture and connected to the lower end of the neck opposite the upper end. The engaging member surrounds the neck and is sandwiched between the lower surface of the head and the upper surface of the second component. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] In the following detailed description, the embodiments are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description. The use of the same reference numerals in different drawings indicates similar or identical items.

[0006] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a container according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0007] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the locking pin and accessories (such as handle) of the container.

[0008] Figure 3 It is a display Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view of the assembly process of the container.

[0009] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Schematic cross-section of some elements of a container with a locking pin retained by an engagement member.

[0010] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a locking pin and accessories (such as a handle) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a locking pin and accessories (such as a handle) according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fastening assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a locking pin according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fastening assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fastening assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fastening assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fastening assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Reference is made to the accompanying drawings in the following detailed description, which form a part of the description. In the drawings, similar symbols generally represent similar components unless the context dictates otherwise. In addition, unless otherwise stated, the description of each consecutive figure may refer to features from one or more of the previous figures to provide a clearer context and a more substantial explanation of the current example embodiment. In addition, the example embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the objects presented herein. It will be readily understood that aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings, may be arranged, replaced, combined, separated, and designed in a variety of different configurations, all of which are expressly contemplated herein.

[0019] For ease of description, spatially relative terms such as "below," "beneath," "below," "above," "over," and "upper," and the like, may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature, as illustrated in the figures. These spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0020] As used herein, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, which should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer, or section from another element, component, region, layer, or section. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" when used herein do not imply a sequence or order.

[0021] As used herein, the terms "approximately," "substantially," "substantial," and "about" are used to describe and illustrate minor variations. When used in conjunction with an event or circumstance, the terms can refer to instances where the event or circumstance occurred precisely, as well as instances where the event or circumstance nearly occurred.

[0022] Figure 1 FIG2 is a schematic diagram of a container 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the container 1 includes an outer shell 10, an inner box 20, a plurality of locking pins and engaging members (e.g., four locking pins 30 and four engaging members 40), and a plurality of accessories, such as two accessories 50. In one exemplary embodiment, the container 1 is used to accommodate a plurality of semiconductor wafers 5.

[0023] In the exemplary embodiment, the semiconductor wafers 5 are arranged in grooves formed in the inner box 20, and the inner box 20 and the semiconductor wafers 5 can be removably received together in the interior space 11 formed in the outer shell 10 for storage purposes. The inner box can then be covered by the upper cover 15 of the container 1.

[0024] In some embodiments, the housing 10 includes a lower body 13 and an upper cover 15. The upper cover 15 is pivotally connected to the upper edge of the rear wall 131 of the lower body 13 and is selectively positioned in an open state ( Figure 1 ) and closed states. In the closed state, the upper cover 15 completely covers the interior space 11, thereby isolating the interior space 11 of the outer container 10 from the surrounding environment. One or more locking members 17 may be connected to the upper edge of the front wall 132 of the lower body 13. The locking members 17 are used to secure the upper cover 15 in the closed state to prevent it from being opened.

[0025] like Figure 1 As shown, the lower body 13 further includes two side walls 133. Each of the two side walls 133 connects the rear wall 131 to the front wall 132 and includes a lower vertical section 134 and an upper inclined section 135. The upper inclined section 135 extends upward and outward from the lower vertical section 134 and is inclined relative to the lower vertical section 134.

[0026] In some embodiments, two apertures 139 are formed in each of the upper inclined sections 135. The apertures 139 may be formed during the molding process of the housing 10. Alternatively, the apertures 139 may be formed by drilling circular holes in the upper inclined sections 135. It should be understood that the number and position of the apertures may vary according to actual needs and should not be limited to the embodiments.

[0027] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the locking pin 30 and the accessory 50 of the container. In some embodiments, the accessory 50 is a handle and includes a gripping portion 51 and a connecting portion 52. The connecting portion 52 has a rectangular plate shape, and the gripping portion 51 is connected to the connecting portion 52 and is formed so as to allow the accessory 50 to be held and manipulated by hand. Using this handle, a person will be able to manually carry the container 1 ( loaded with semiconductor wafers 5 ) relatively easily. Figure 1 ), as this container typically weighs about 20 pounds.

[0028] In some embodiments, two locking pins 30 are connected to the rear surface of the connecting portion 52. Each of the locking pins 30 includes a head 31, a neck 32, and a base 33. The head 31, the neck 32, and the base 33 are sequentially arranged along the longitudinal axis L of the locking pin 30.

[0029] The head 31 has an upper surface 311 at one end of the locking pin 30 and a lower surface 312 opposite to the upper surface 311. The head 31 has a truncated cone shape that tapers gradually from the neck 32. The neck 32 is connected to the lower surface 312 of the head 31 at its upper end 321. The neck 32 has a second width W2 ( Figure 3 ) cylindrical shape, the second width W2 is smaller than the first width W1 ( Figure 3 The base portion 33 is connected to the lower end 322 of the neck portion 32. The base portion 33 may have a third width W3 ( Figure 3 ), which is substantially equal to the first width W1 of the head 31. The locking pin 30 is connected to the connecting portion 52 of the accessory 50 through the base 33. The locking pin 30 can be integrally formed with the connecting portion 52 of the accessory 50 through a molding process.

[0030] like Figure 2 As shown in FIG, a groove 35 is formed in the head 31 and the neck 32, and the groove 35 extends across the locking pin 30 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, with its ends connected to the side surfaces of the locking pin 30. In some embodiments, the depth of the groove 35 is less than the sum of the heights of the head 31 and the neck 32. That is, the bottom of the groove 35 is distal to the base 33. The groove 35 allows each half of the head 31, along with the neck 32, to flex toward each other as a compressive force is applied to the locking pin 30. However, it should be understood that many variations and modifications are possible with the disclosed embodiments. In another embodiment, the depth of the groove 35 is equal to the sum of the heights of the head 31 and the neck 32. That is, the head 31 and the neck 32 are divided into two equal parts. In yet another embodiment, the groove 35 is omitted, and the locking pin may be formed from an elastic material.

[0031] refer to Figure 3 In some embodiments, the coupling member 40 is an O-ring made of an elastomeric plastic. The material of the coupling member 40 can be selected to have excellent corrosion resistance and rust resistance, and is suitable for use in a highly humanized environment. In some embodiments, the inner diameter D1 of the coupling member 40 ( Figure 4 ) is slightly or substantially equal to the second width W2 of the neck portion 32. In addition, the outer diameter D2 ( Figure 4 ) is larger than the first width W1 of the lower surface 312 of the head 31 and larger than the width W4 of the orifice 139. For example, the outer diameter D2 ( Figure 4 ) is approximately 3 mm to approximately 4 mm larger than the width W4 of the orifice 139.

[0032] To secure the accessory 50 to the housing 10, first, insert the two locking pins 30 into the openings 139 formed on the upper inclined section 135 of the lower body 13. When the connecting portion 52 of the accessory 50 abuts against the outer surface of the upper inclined section 135, the insertion of the locking pins 30 stops. When the locking pins 30 are fully inserted into the openings 139, the heads 31 are positioned in the interior space 11 ( Figure 1 ) and the base 33 is positioned in the orifice 139. In some embodiments, as Figure 4 As shown, the height of the base 33 is substantially equal to the thickness T2 of the upper inclined section 135 , so that the upper surface of the base 33 and the inner surface 136 of the upper inclined section 135 are located in the same plane.

[0033] After the locking pin 30 is inserted into the aperture 139, the engagement member 40 is connected to the locking pin 30. According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the process of connecting the engagement member 40 to the locking pin 30 includes: attaching the engagement member 40 to the head 31 of the locking pin 30; applying a thrust to the engagement member 40 to compress the two halves of the head 31 separated by the slot 35, thereby reducing the width of the head 31; moving the engagement member 40 to pass through the lower surface 312 of the head 31; and positioning the engagement member 40 between the lower surface 312 of the head 31 and the inner surface 136 of the upper inclined section 135. It should be understood that the frustoconical shape of the head 31 advantageously reduces resistance during movement of the engagement member 40 through the head 31.

[0034] refer to Figure 4 After the engaging member 40 is placed between the lower surface 312 of the head and the inner surface 136 of the upper inclined section 135, the engaging member 40 is clamped and compressed by the lower surface 312 and the inner surface 136. Due to its elastic nature and because the thickness of the engaging member 40 is slightly larger than the width of the gap formed between the lower surface 312 and the inner surface 136, the engaging member 40 is slightly deformed, thereby providing a stopping and retaining force on the locking pin 30, thereby preventing the locking pin 30 from falling out of the orifice 139. Figure 4 As shown in FIG, the width of the gap formed between the lower surface 312 and the inner surface 136 may be equal to the difference between the thickness T1 of the neck portion 32 and the base portion 33 and the thickness T2 of the upper inclined section 135. In one exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the joint member 40 is approximately 3 mm, and the width of the gap is less than 3 mm. However, the dimensions of the joint member 40 should not be limited to the above embodiment and may vary depending on the material of the joint member 40.

[0035] It should be understood that because the engagement member 40 provides flexibility to accommodate part-to-part stacking tolerances, the locking pin 30 can be effectively attached to the housing 10 even if the locking pin 30 is not fully inserted into the aperture 139 or is positioned obliquely relative to the central axis of the aperture 139. Thus, the accessory 50 is securely attached to the housing 10. Figure 1 As shown in FIG, where the accessory 50 is a handle having two locking pins 30 attached to the housing 10, the handle exhibits a high load holding capability, allowing a static load of 20 kg to be withstood during a load holding test.

[0036] In the case where the engagement member 40 is an O-ring, the engagement member 40 also serves as a seal around the aperture 139 of the neck 32. In addition, the O-ring can provide a damper / shock absorber to reduce vibrations between the storage box and the handle, and can avoid or reduce creaking noises between the locking pin 30 and / or the fitting 50 and the housing 10. Thus, the embodiments of the present disclosure are suitable for use with moving parts of machinery while preventing the locking pin from loosening during service time or during vibrations.

[0037] The method for removing the locking pin 30 from the housing 10 is described below. To remove the locking pin 30, the operator compresses the head 31 of the locking pin 30 to move the two halves of the head 31, separated by the groove 35, toward each other, and then removes the engaging member 40 from the locking pin 30. After removing the engaging member 40, the locking pin 30 can be freely removed from the housing 10. Because the locking pin 30 can be easily and easily assembled and removed from the housing 10, the accessories 50 with different functions can be replaced as needed. In addition, the accessories 50 can be easily removed for cleaning and / or replacement for maintenance.

[0038] It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific examples described above. Figure 2 , a gripping member, such as a rope or the like, can be fastened to the housing 10 via two locking pins 30 to enable an operator to carry the container 1 manually or a robot to carry the container automatically. Furthermore, the accessory 50 can be a colored ID tag, an ID card, a card holder, an RFID holder, or any other item that can be used to identify the housing 10.

[0039] The arrangement of the apertures 139 and the locking pins 30 can vary. For example, the number of apertures 139 and the number of locking pins 30 formed in the housing 10 can be varied as desired. Furthermore, the apertures 139 can be formed in any other suitable location on the housing 10, as long as the locking pins 30 can be securely attached thereto. Due to the advantage of flexibility, the locking pins 30 and the engagement member 40 can be implemented in any commercially available container by forming apertures 139 therein according to any specific requirements.

[0040] refer to Figure 5 and 6 According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, different configurations of the locking pin are provided.

[0041] exist Figure 5 In the embodiment of the present invention, the locking pin 30a includes a head 31a, a neck 32a, and a base 33a. The head 31a, the neck 32a, and the base 33a are sequentially arranged along the longitudinal axis L of the locking pin 30a. Figure 2 The difference between the locking pin 30a shown in FIG and the locking pin 30 is that the groove 35 of the locking pin 30 is omitted, and two notches 36a are formed at two opposite sides of the locking pin 30a. The two notches 36a can each be formed to have a V shape or a U shape, and are formed at the side surfaces of the locking pin 30a corresponding to the head 31a and the neck 32a.

[0042] In some embodiments, as Figure 5 As shown in FIG, each of the notches 36a extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the locking pin 30a from the upper surface 311a of the head 31a to the lower end 322a of the neck 32a connected to the base 33a. The notches 36a not only facilitate the locking pin 30a and the engaging member (e.g. Figure 1 The assembly and disassembly process of the joining member 40 shown in FIG. 1 can also prevent sink mark deformation during the molding process. Sink marks can form when the interior material (such as plastic and the like) on thick sections of a molded part cools slower than the material located near the exterior. As the surrounding material cools and solidifies, the molten interior material will create sink marks on the surface of the molded part, which can be aesthetically unpleasant.

[0043] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment of the present invention, the locking pin 30b includes a head 31b, a neck 32b and a base 33b. The head 31b, the neck 32b and the base 33b are sequentially arranged along the longitudinal axis L of the locking pin 30b. Figure 2The difference between the lock pin 30b shown in FIG. 3 and the lock pin 30 includes that the groove 35 of the lock pin 30 is replaced by a groove 35b, and two notches 36b are formed on two opposite sides of the lock pin 30b. The groove 35b is recessed into the upper surface 321b of the head 32b, but away from the lower surface 312b of the head 31b. The two notches 36b can each be formed to have a V-shape or a U-shape, and are formed at the side surface of the lock pin 30b corresponding to the neck 32b. The groove 35b can facilitate the lock pin 30b and the engaging member (e.g., Figure 1 The illustrated assembly and disassembly process of the engagement member 40 ) is shown, and the recess 36 b can prevent sink mark deformation during the molding process of the locking pin 30 b.

[0044] The locking pin 30 and the engaging member 40 are used for Figure 1 In addition to the container 1 shown in FIG, it can also be used to combine two items to achieve different purposes. Various embodiments are provided as follows:

[0045] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a fastening assembly 6 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The fastening assembly 6 includes a first component 61, a second component 62, a locking pin 30c, and an engaging component 40. The first component 61 and the second component 62 may be outer frames of two devices. The first component 61 has an orifice 610, and the second component 62 has an orifice 620. Both the orifice 610 and the orifice 620 have a circular or polygonal shape. One of the orifice 610 and the orifice 620 has a groove formed on its inner wall. For example, a groove 615 is formed on the inner wall of the orifice 610 and is located adjacent to the lower surface 612 away from the second component 62.

[0046] refer to Figure 8 , the lock pin 30c has Figure 2 The locking pin 30 is similar in configuration to the locking pin 30 shown in FIG, but further includes an extension 34. The extension 34 is formed at the bottom of the base 33 and has a greater width than the base 33. In some embodiments, the width and thickness of the extension 34 are consistent with the width and thickness of the groove 615 to be engaged therewith. In some other embodiments, the groove 35 of the locking pin 30c may be formed by Figure 5 Additionally or alternatively, a groove 35b may be formed in the locking pin 30c. Figure 6 The two notches shown in the figure.

[0047] To assemble the first component 61 and the second component 62, the first component 61 and the second component 62 are overlapped to align the holes 610 and 620, and then the head 31 of the locking pin 30c is moved to sequentially pass through the holes 610 and 620 to place the locking pin 30c in the holes 610 and 620. When the locking pin 30c is placed in the holes 610 and 620, the head 31 is positioned above the upper surface 621 of the second component 62, the base 33 is engaged with the hole 610, and the extension 34 is engaged with the groove 615.

[0048] After the locking pin 30c is placed into the apertures 610 and 620, the engagement member 40 is connected to the locking pin 30c by performing an operation similar to the above-described operation of connecting the engagement member 40 to the locking pin 30. When the engagement member 40 is connected to the locking pin 30c, the engagement member 40 is clamped and compressed between the lower surface 312 of the head 31 and the upper surface 621 of the second member 62. As a result, a stopping and retaining force is provided to the locking pin 30c by the engagement member 40, preventing the first member 61 and the second member 62 from being separated.

[0049] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a fastening assembly 6c according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 9 Used in Figure 8 Components with the same reference numerals as those of the components of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 refer to the same or equivalent components. For the sake of brevity, they are not described in detail here. The difference between the fastening assembly 6 and the fastening assembly 6c includes that the engaging member 40 is replaced by the engaging member 40c.

[0050] The coupling component 40c is a pad having a specific size suitable for the fastening assembly 6c. In some embodiments, the coupling component 40c is a plastic molded component and is made of a moldable polymer material (such as polyurethane and the like). The outer contour of the coupling component 40c can be circular, rectangular or polygonal, and is not limited to a circle. A through hole 400c is formed in the coupling component 40c to allow the locking pin 30c to pass therethrough. The through hole 400c has an upper inner wall 401c and a lower inner wall 402c. The upper inner wall 401c is connected to and perpendicular to the upper surface 411c of the coupling component 40c, and the lower inner wall 402c is connected to the lower surface 412c of the coupling component 40c. In some embodiments, the lower inner wall 402c is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the locking pin 30c. The obliquely extending lower inner wall 402c can facilitate the movement of the head 31 of the locking pin 30c through the coupling component 40c.

[0051] The engagement member 40c may have geometric specifications specific to the application of the fastening assembly 6c. For example, the thickness of the engagement member 40c may be substantially equal to the distance between the lower surface 312 and the upper surface 621 of the second component 62. Thus, when the fastening assembly 6c is assembled, the upper surface 411c and the lower surface 412c of the engagement member 40c mate with the lower surface 312 of the head 31 and the upper surface 621 of the second component 62, which can advantageously reduce or prevent shaking or vibration of the locking pin 30c during operation of a system including the fastening assembly 6c. It should be understood that the engagement member 40c may be used in the container 10 as a substitute for the engagement member 40.

[0052] The embodiments of the fastening assembly disclosed herein can be applied to adapt to varying surface geometries with a minimum required working area / space, and the items connected by the locking pins and engaging members can be formed of different materials, such as metal and plastic. Therefore, the fastening assembly can be widely used in more applications than conventional ultrasonic welding methods. Figures 10 to 12 Describe exemplary embodiments.

[0053] Figure 10 A schematic cross-sectional view of a fastening assembly 6d according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown, wherein a locking pin 30c and a coupling member 40 are used to connect a first member 61d and a second member 62d. The first member 61d includes a bottom wall 613d and a side wall 614d, and an orifice 610d is formed in the bottom wall 613d. The second member 62d includes a bottom wall 623d and a side wall 624d, and an orifice 620d is formed in the bottom wall 623d. The bottom wall 613d and the bottom wall 623d are connected by the reference Figure 3 and 4 After the locking pin 30c and the engaging member 40 are assembled, the engaging member 40 is sandwiched between the lower surface 312 and the upper surface 621d of the second member 62d, and the extension 34 of the locking pin 30c is engaged with the lower surface 612d of the bottom wall 613d.

[0054] In some embodiments, at least one of the first component 61d and the second component 62d is a component having a deep, narrow profile. For example, the aperture 610d of the first component 61d is formed at the bottom of a void having a relatively high height-depth-width ratio. That is, for example, the height of the sidewall 614d is at least five times greater than the width of the bottom wall 613d.

[0055] Figure 11A schematic cross-sectional view of a fastening assembly 6e according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown, wherein a locking pin 30c and a coupling member 40 are used to connect two first members 61e and a second member 62e. The first member 61e is formed to have a planar shape, and an orifice 610e is formed at the first member 61e. The second member 62e is formed to have a curved shape or a circular shape, and an orifice 620e is formed at the curved surface of the second member 62e. The first member 61e and the second member 62e are connected by a reference Figure 3 and 4 The locking pin 30c and the engaging member 40 are connected together using an assembly method similar to that employed in the embodiment of FIG. After the locking pin 30c and the engaging member 40 are assembled, the engaging member 40 is sandwiched between the lower surface 312 and the upper surface 621e of the second member 62e, and the extension 34 of the locking pin 30c engages the lower surfaces 612e of the first and second members 61e. Due to the flexible and compressible nature of the engaging member 40, the first and second members 61e, 62e can be stably and securely connected regardless of the curved surface of the second member 62e.

[0056] Figure 12 A schematic cross-sectional view of a fastening assembly 6f according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown, wherein a locking pin 30c and a coupling member 40 are used to connect two first members 61f and a second member 62f. The first member 61f and the second member 62f are both formed to have a curved shape or a circular shape, and holes 610f and 620f are formed at the curved surfaces of the first member 61f and the second member 62f. The first and second members 61f and 62f are connected by the reference Figure 3 and 4 The locking pin 30c and the engaging member 40 are connected together using an assembly method similar to that employed in the embodiment of FIG. After the locking pin 30c and the engaging member 40 are assembled, the engaging member 40 is sandwiched between the lower surface 312 and the upper surface 621f of the second member 62f, and the extension 34 of the locking pin 30c engages with the lower surfaces 612f of the first and second members 61f. Due to the flexible and compressible nature of the engaging member 40, the first and second members 61f, 62f, can be stably and securely connected regardless of the curved surface of the second member 62f.

[0057] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods for assembling articles using locking pins and joint components as an alternative to conventional ultrasonic welding or mechanical fastening methods. Because the locking pins and joint components used to join articles can be made of any suitable material, not limited to metal, they can be used in environments with severe metal contamination. Furthermore, because the locking pins and joint components have a simple structure and assembly operation, simple or no tools are required during assembly and disassembly, minimizing maintenance requirements.

[0058] Aspect 1. A container comprising:

[0059] a housing having at least one aperture formed in a sidewall of the housing;

[0060] A locking pin comprising:

[0061] a head positioned in the interior space of the housing and having a lower surface;

[0062] a neck connected at an upper end thereof to a lower surface of the head, wherein a width of the neck is smaller than a width of the lower surface of the head; and

[0063] a base positioned in the aperture and connected to a lower end of the neck opposite the upper end;

[0064] an engaging member surrounding the neck and sandwiched between the lower surface of the head and the inner surface of the side wall; and

[0065] An accessory is connected to the base such that the accessory is secured to the housing via the locking pin and the engagement member.

[0066] Aspect 2. The container according to aspect 1, wherein a groove is formed in at least a portion of the head and the neck, and the groove extends across in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the locking pin.

[0067] Aspect 3. The container according to aspect 1, wherein at least one notch is formed at a side surface of the locking pin.

[0068] Aspect 4. The container according to aspect 3, wherein the recess extends from an upper surface of the head opposite the lower surface to the neck in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the locking pin.

[0069] Aspect 5. The container according to aspect 1, wherein the head tapers in a direction away from the neck.

[0070] Aspect 6. The container according to aspect 1, wherein the engagement member has a tubular shape, and an outer diameter of the engagement member is larger than a diameter of the aperture of the outer shell.

[0071] Aspect 7. A container according to Aspect 1, wherein the coupling part has a flat plate shape, and a through hole is formed in the coupling part for allowing the neck to pass therethrough, wherein the through hole includes a lower inner wall intersecting with the lower surface of the coupling part, and the lower inner wall is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the locking pin.

[0072] Aspect 8. The container of aspect 1, wherein the engagement member comprises a polymer material and is deformable when compressed by the lower surface of the head and the inner surface of the shell.

[0073] Aspect 9. The container according to aspect 1, further comprising an inner box positioned in the interior space of the outer shell for receiving at least one semiconductor wafer.

[0074] Aspect 10. The container of aspect 1, wherein the accessory comprises a handle, a color ID tag, an ID card, a card holder, or an RFID holder.

[0075] Aspect 11. A fastening assembly comprising:

[0076] a first component having a first orifice;

[0077] a second component positioned on the first component and having a second aperture aligned with the first aperture;

[0078] A locking pin comprising:

[0079] a head positioned above the second member and having a lower surface;

[0080] a neck connected at an upper end thereof to a lower surface of the head, wherein a width of the neck is smaller than a width of the lower surface of the head; and

[0081] a base positioned in the first aperture and connected to a lower end of the neck opposite the upper end; and

[0082] An engagement member surrounds the neck and is sandwiched between the lower surface of the head and the upper surface of the second member.

[0083] Aspect 12. The fastening assembly of aspect 11, wherein a slot is formed in at least a portion of the head and the neck, the slot extending across in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the locking pin.

[0084] Aspect 13. The fastening assembly according to aspect 11, wherein at least one notch is formed at a side surface of the locking pin.

[0085] Aspect 14. The fastening assembly of aspect 11, wherein the head tapers in a direction away from the neck.

[0086] Aspect 15. The fastening assembly of aspect 11, wherein the engagement member has a tubular shape, and an outer diameter of the engagement member is greater than a diameter of the second aperture.

[0087] Aspect 16. A fastening assembly according to Aspect 11, wherein a through hole is formed in the engaging member for allowing the neck to pass therethrough, wherein the through hole includes a lower inner wall intersecting with the lower surface of the engaging member, and the lower inner wall is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the locking pin.

[0088] Aspect 17. The fastening assembly of aspect 11, wherein the engagement member comprises a polymer material and is deformable when compressed by the lower surface of the head and the upper surface of the second member.

[0089] Aspect 18. The fastening assembly according to aspect 11, wherein the locking pin further comprises an extension and a groove, the extension being connected to a bottom portion of the base away from the neck, the groove extending circumferentially around an inner wall of the first aperture, the extension being received in the groove.

[0090] Aspect 19. The fastening assembly according to aspect 11, wherein the locking pin further includes an extension connected to a bottom portion of the base away from the neck, and the extension abuts against a lower surface of the first component.

[0091] Aspect 20. The fastening assembly according to aspect 11, wherein at least one of the first member and the second member has a curved surface, and the first aperture or the second aperture is formed at the curved surface.

[0092] The embodiments disclosed in this application are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description; and all changes within the meaning and equivalent range of the claims are intended to be embraced therein.

[0093] The terms used in this specification are intended to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. The terms "a," "an," and "the" also include plural forms unless expressly indicated otherwise. The terms "include" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of the recited features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components.

[0094] With respect to the above description, it should be understood that changes in detail may be made, particularly in the construction materials used and the shape, size and arrangement of parts without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present specification and described embodiments are intended to be exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the present disclosure being indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A container comprising: a housing having at least one aperture formed in a sidewall of the housing; A locking pin comprising: a head positioned in the interior space of the housing and having a lower surface; a neck connected at an upper end thereof to a lower surface of the head, wherein a width of the neck is smaller than a width of the lower surface of the head; and a base positioned in the aperture and connected to a lower end of the neck opposite the upper end; an engaging member surrounding the neck and sandwiched between the lower surface of the head and the inner surface of the side wall; and An accessory is connected to the base such that the accessory is secured to the housing via the locking pin and the engagement member.

2. The container of claim 1, wherein a groove is formed in at least a portion of the head and the neck, and the groove extends across in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the locking pin. 3 . The container according to claim 1 , wherein at least one notch is formed at a side surface of the locking pin.

4. The container of claim 3, wherein the recess extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the locking pin from an upper surface of the head opposite the lower surface to the neck.

5. The container of claim 1, wherein the engagement member has a tubular shape, and an outer diameter of the engagement member is larger than a diameter of the aperture of the housing.

6. A container according to claim 1, wherein the engaging member has a flat plate shape, and a through hole is formed in the engaging member for allowing the neck to pass therethrough, wherein the through hole includes a lower inner wall intersecting with the lower surface of the engaging member, and the lower inner wall is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the locking pin.

7. The container of claim 1, further comprising an inner box positioned in the interior space of the outer shell for receiving at least one semiconductor wafer.

8. The container of claim 1, wherein the accessory comprises a handle, a color ID tag, an ID card, a card holder, or an RFID holder.

9. A fastening assembly comprising: a first component having a first orifice; a second component positioned on the first component and having a second aperture aligned with the first aperture; A locking pin comprising: a head positioned above the second member and having a lower surface; a neck connected at an upper end thereof to a lower surface of the head, wherein a width of the neck is smaller than a width of the lower surface of the head; and a base positioned in the first aperture and connected to a lower end of the neck opposite the upper end; and An engagement member surrounds the neck and is sandwiched between the lower surface of the head and the upper surface of the second member.

10. The fastening assembly of claim 9, wherein a slot is formed in at least a portion of the head and neck, the slot extending across in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the locking pin.

11. The fastening assembly of claim 9, wherein at least one notch is formed at a side surface of the locking pin.

12. The fastening assembly of claim 9, wherein the head tapers in a direction away from the neck.

13. The fastening assembly of claim 9, wherein the engagement member has a tubular shape, and an outer diameter of the engagement member is greater than a diameter of the second aperture.

14. The fastening assembly of claim 9, wherein a through hole is formed in the engaging member for allowing the neck to pass therethrough, wherein the through hole includes a lower inner wall intersecting the lower surface of the engaging member, and the lower inner wall is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the locking pin.

15. The fastening assembly of claim 9, wherein the locking pin further comprises an extension and a groove, the extension being connected to a bottom portion of the base away from the neck, the groove extending circumferentially around an inner wall of the first aperture, the extension being received in the groove.

16. The fastening assembly of claim 9, wherein the locking pin further comprises an extension connected to a bottom portion of the base distal from the neck, the extension abutting a lower surface of the first member. 17 . The fastening assembly of claim 9 , wherein at least one of the first member and the second member has a curved surface, and the first aperture or the second aperture is formed at the curved surface.

18. A container comprising: shell; an inner box removably received in the interior space of the outer shell; at least one aperture formed in a side wall of the housing; at least one accessory secured to the housing; and One or more locking components that lock the accessory to the housing, the one or more locking components comprising: A locking pin comprising: a head positioned in the interior space of the housing and having a lower surface; a neck connected at an upper end thereof to a lower surface of the head, wherein a width of the neck is smaller than a width of the lower surface of the head; and a base positioned in the aperture and connected to a lower end of the neck opposite the upper end, wherein the base is connected to the accessory to secure the accessory to the housing; and An engagement member surrounds the neck and is sandwiched between the lower surface of the head and the inner surface of the side wall.

19. The container of claim 18, wherein the inner box includes a plurality of semiconductor wafer slots capable of removably receiving at least one wafer.

20. The container of claim 18, wherein the accessory comprises a handle, a colored ID tag, an ID card, a card holder, or an RFID holder.

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