Blind Rivet Handling Element for Coaxial Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blind fasteners and setting noses do not allow for strict coaxial alignment between the rivet and the setting nose, making it difficult for robots to automate the assembly process, as the rivet ends often have significant angular deviations from the axis of the setting nose, leading to installation failures.
Innovation Solution
The blind rivet features a handling element with a first portion for guiding and a second portion for torque transmission, separated by a blocking portion to ensure axial alignment, while the setting nose includes receiver portions for the handling element that can transmit torque and limit axial movement, allowing for precise coaxial alignment and secure gripping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conventional blind rivet with a single handling element is used, then the structure is simple, but the rivet cannot achieve strict coaxial alignment with the setting nose, leading to installation failures
Solution Approach 1:
The handling element is segmented into two distinct portions: a first handling portion for guiding the rivet into the setting nose, and a second handling portion for torque transmission during installation. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function, enabling precise coaxial alignment while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The first handling portion acts as an intermediary element between the rivet and the setting nose, providing a guiding interface that ensures strict coaxial alignment during insertion. This intermediary structure mediates the alignment requirement without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
2Extent of automation
If the rivet structure is simplified, then the manufacturing is easier, but automation becomes difficult due to inability to achieve strict coaxiality
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the handling element into guiding and torque transmission portions, the invention enables automated installation through a standardized interface (the first handling portion) that ensures coaxial alignment, while the second portion handles the complex torque application required for installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The first handling portion provides a universal guiding interface that works with the setting nose, enabling automated coaxial alignment. This multi-functional design allows the same rivet structure to be used across different automated installation applications.
3Ease of operation
If a single handling portion is used, then the device is simpler, but it cannot simultaneously provide guidance and transmit torque effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The handling element is divided into two functional segments: the first handling portion provides guidance and centering during insertion, while the second handling portion is optimized for torque transmission during installation. This segmentation allows each portion to excel at its specific function, making installation easier despite the increased structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the handling element have different local qualities: the first handling portion has geometric features optimized for guiding and centering, while the second handling portion has features optimized for torque transmission. This local differentiation of qualities enables effective performance of both guidance and torque transmission functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A rivet for blind fastening may include a screw with a handling element, a break groove, a head separated from the handling element by the break groove, and a threaded part. The rivet may also include a sleeve with a collar and a tubular shank having an internal thread intended to come into engagement with the threaded part of the screw. The handling element includes a first handling portion able to guide introduction of the rivet in a setting tool, and a second handling portion able to transmit a torque, the two handling portions being separated by a blocking portion able to limit an axial movement of the rivet in a setting tool. A setting nose may be used for installing such a rivet, and the rivet, setting nose and a setting method can be used in the assembly of aircraft structures.