Androgynous Fastener Geometry for Orientation-Free Robotic Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fasteners require specific orientation of building blocks, are complex to use in captive positions, and increase logistical complexity in structural assembly, limiting adaptability and efficiency in robotic assembly of high-performance structural systems.
Innovation Solution
An androgynous fastener design with a conical frustum structure and tapering threads, allowing for reversible mechanical connections with high strength and stiffness, enabling robotic assembly with large misalignment tolerances and eliminating orientation requirements, thus simplifying the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional male-female fasteners are used to connect building blocks, then a mechanical connection is achieved, but the building blocks require specific orientation and the assembly process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener employs asymmetric thread geometry with different thread profiles on opposing sides of the fastener body. One side features a coarser thread pitch while the other has a finer pitch, allowing the fastener to engage with building blocks in multiple orientations while maintaining secure mechanical connection through the asymmetric thread engagement patterns
2Strength
If conventional fasteners are used in captive positions within building blocks, then structural connection is achieved, but the complexity of using these fasteners increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener design incorporates self-aligning features where the asymmetric thread geometry automatically orients the fastener correctly during insertion into captive positions. The building block recesses are shaped to guide the fastener into the proper orientation, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures or specialized installation tools
3Strength
If conventional fasteners are used for structural assembly, then mechanical connection is achieved, but logistical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric fastener design serves multiple functions: it provides secure mechanical connection, enables assembly in multiple orientations, works in both captive and non-captive positions, and can be installed with simple tools. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for different fastener types for different assembly scenarios, reducing logistical complexity
Data Source
AI summary
An androgynous fastener for autonomous robotic assembly of high performance structures is disclosed herein. The androgynous fastener is lightweight and facilitates assembly through simple actuation with large driver-positioning tolerance requirements. The androgynous fastener provides a high-strength, reversible mechanical connection and may be used in high strength-to-weight ratio structural systems, such as lattice structure systems. The androgynous fastener resists tensile and shear forces upon loading of the lattice structure system thereby ensuring that the struts of the lattice structure system govern the mechanical behavior of the system. The androgynous fastener eliminates building-block orientation requirements and allows assembly in all orthogonal build directions. The androgynous fastener may be captive in building-block structural elements thereby minimizing the logistical complexity of transporting additional fasteners. Integration of a plurality of the androgynous fasteners into a high performance, robotically managed, structural system reduces launch energy requirements, enables higher mission adaptivity and decreases system life-cycle costs.