Threaded Blind Fastener Spacer Assembly Counterbore Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing threaded blind fastener assemblies face challenges when joining multiple components, particularly when a spacer or compression limiter is involved, as proper alignment is time-consuming and misalignment requires reassembly, leading to material waste.
Innovation Solution
A threaded blind fastener and spacer assembly is designed with a flange and a spacer having a counterbore, where the flange is inserted into the counterbore and deformed to secure the spacer, allowing for easy alignment and secure attachment without separate alignment of individual pieces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple components are joined using separate blind fasteners and spacers, then the connection is secure, but the alignment process is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the blind fastener and spacer into a single integrated assembly where the spacer is permanently attached to the fastener body. This merging eliminates the need for separate alignment and assembly operations, reducing assembly time while maintaining secure connection through the integrated structure that ensures proper positioning of both components simultaneously.
2Reliability
If multiple components are joined using separate blind fasteners and spacers, then the connection is secure, but the assembly process is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of the spacer and blind fastener into a single assembly reduces the number of discrete parts and assembly steps. The spacer becomes an inherent part of the fastener structure, eliminating the need for separate handling, positioning, and securing operations, thereby simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated assembly is designed with distinct functional zones: the spacer portion for positioning and the fastener portion for securing. This segmentation of functions within a unified structure allows each component to perform its specific role efficiently without requiring separate assembly operations for each function.
3Reliability
If components are properly aligned before fastening, then the connection is secure, but material waste occurs if misalignment requires reassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer is pre-attached to the blind fastener in a controlled manufacturing environment, ensuring proper alignment and positioning before the assembly reaches the final installation site. This preliminary action eliminates the risk of misalignment during field assembly, preventing the need for reassembly and avoiding material waste from failed installation attempts.
4Reliability
If a threaded stem is welded to a tubular body, then the fastener is secure, but the assembly process requires additional steps
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer and tubular body are manufactured as a single integrated component rather than separate parts requiring welding or other joining operations. This merging eliminates the additional manufacturing steps associated with joining separate components, simplifying production while maintaining the structural integrity and security of the fastener assembly.
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 simplifies the assembly process by eliminating the need for precise alignment of multiple components, reducing time and material waste, and providing a robust, secure connection.
Implementation Method 1
deforming said sidewall onto said inwardly extending chamfer to secure said spacer to said threaded blind fastener
Data Source
AI summary
A threaded blind fastener and spacer assembly is provided, the assembly including a blind fastener having a flange; and a spacer having a surface, said spacer having a hole therethrough, said hole terminating as a counterbore at said surface, said counterbore receiving said flange. Methods of preparing the assembly and a method of securing the threaded blind fastener and spacer assembly to a substrate material are also provided.