Assembly Tool for Threaded Inserts with Dual-Thread Spindle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing assembly tools for threaded inserts are not suitable for large series production as they require manual assembly and sequential steps, which are time-consuming and prone to damage during the driving in of pins or wedges.
Innovation Solution
An assembly tool with a spindle and sleeve featuring a first and second external thread, along with locking means that allow continuous rotation for screwing in the insert and subsequent driving in of pins or wedges, enabling automated assembly without the need for additional tools like hammers, and allowing precise control of screwing depth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual assembly tools with sequential steps are used, then assembly safety and ergonomics are improved, but assembly time and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the screwing operation and the driving-in operation into a single continuous rotational motion of the assembly tool. The spindle with first and second threads engages with the threaded insert and the workpiece respectively, allowing both operations to be performed simultaneously in one rotational cycle, thereby eliminating tool changes and sequential steps while maintaining safety through controlled mechanical engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly tool is designed with a spindle that has dual threading capability - a first thread for engaging the threaded insert and a second thread for engaging the workpiece. This multi-functional design allows the single tool to perform both screwing and driving-in operations, replacing the need for multiple specialized tools and sequential assembly steps.
2Manufacturing precision
If sequential assembly steps are used, then assembly precision can be controlled, but assembly time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous rotational motion of the assembly tool without interruption or tool changes. The spindle continuously engages with both the threaded insert and the workpiece throughout the rotation, performing screwing and driving-in operations simultaneously in an uninterrupted sequence, thereby reducing assembly time while maintaining precision through controlled mechanical engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly tool is pre-configured with the spindle having both threads already formed, allowing the operator to simply insert the tool and rotate it. The dual-threaded spindle is prepared in advance with the correct thread specifications, eliminating the need for sequential setup steps and reducing assembly time while maintaining precision.
3Ease of manufacture
If hammers and additional tools are used, then driving in of pins or wedges can be accomplished, but risk of damage to pins or wedges increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical hammering system with a controlled rotational screwing system. The spindle's second thread engages with the workpiece and rotates to drive in the pins or wedges through a controlled screwing motion rather than impact, eliminating the need for hammers and reducing the risk of damage to delicate components like pins and wedges.
Solution Approach 2:
The spindle acts as an intermediary mechanism between the rotational motion and the driving-in of pins or wedges. Instead of directly impacting the pins or wedges with a hammer, the rotational force is transmitted through the spindle's threaded engagement with the workpiece, providing a controlled and gentle driving-in action that protects the components.
4Ease of operation
If manual tool operation is used, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but automation capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly tool is segmented into distinct functional components - a handle for manual operation, a spindle with dual threads for engagement, and a threaded insert for the workpiece. This segmentation allows the tool to be easily operated manually while also being compatible with automated screwing devices, as the spindle can be engaged with automated torque control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly tool is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to adapt to different operating modes. The spindle can be manually rotated or driven by automated mechanisms, and the threaded engagement provides natural torque feedback that works with both manual and automated operation, maintaining flexibility while enabling automation capability.
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 enhances efficiency by eliminating the need for tool changes, reduces the risk of damage to pins or wedges, and allows for precise and automated assembly of threaded inserts in large series production.
Implementation Method 1
a first external thread (12) for connection to a threaded insert (14)
Implementation Method 2
a second external thread (13) which engages with an internal thread (10) of the sleeve (2)
Implementation Method 3
The blocking means can thus also be formed by the areas of the spindle and the sleeve itself which are in contact with one another
Data Source
Figure 1~5
Figure 6a~6f
Figure 7a~8
AI summary
The invention relates to an assembly tool (1) for threaded inserts (14) comprising a spindle (3) which is provided at least partially with a first external thread (12) and at least partially with a second thread (13), a sleeve (2) which has a thread (10) engaging with the second thread (13), and locking means (11) for releasably preventing rotation of the spindle (3) relative to the sleeve (2). The length of the spindle (3) and the length of the sleeve (2) are adapted to each other such that the first external thread (12) projects at least partially from the sleeve (2). The invention further relates to the use of such an assembly tool (1) for fastening a threaded insert (14) in a workpiece (18) and a corresponding method.