Blind Rivet Loop Clamp With Zigzag Bulge Stiffening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for ring hangers do not effectively utilize blind rivet nuts in reverse configurations or structurally stiffen the bulge portion to support conduits under tensile loading, limiting their application in reverse directions and combining with loop clamps for suspension purposes.
Innovation Solution
A novel method of securely attaching a blind rivet nut to a loop clamp by recompressing the initial bulge into a zigzag pattern, enhancing stiffness and using it as a threaded member to support conduits without welding, allowing for a lighter structure that meets load requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If blind rivet nut is used in reverse configuration to attach to loop clamp, then welding is eliminated and structure is lighter, but the connection fails under tensile loading
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by using the blind rivet nut in reverse configuration - inserting it through the loop clamp from the opposite side of its intended use. This allows the flange to contact the loop clamp surface while the bulge forms on the inside, eliminating welding while maintaining connection reliability through the deformed zigzag pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the rivet nut bulge by deforming it into a zigzag pattern through secondary compression. This parameter change increases the stiffness and load-bearing capacity of the bulge, enabling it to withstand tensile loading when used in reverse configuration.
2Device complexity
If blind rivet nut is used in reverse configuration, then manufacturing complexity is reduced, but the bulge lacks sufficient stiffness to support loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing a secondary deformation operation on the rivet nut bulge after its initial formation. This preliminary stiffening through zigzag deformation prepares the bulge to withstand tensile loads before the assembly is put into service, ensuring adequate structural performance.
3Ease of operation
If standard blind rivet nut configuration is used, then installation is simple, but it cannot be effectively used in reverse directions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables reverse configuration use by inverting the installation approach - inserting the rivet nut through the loop clamp from the opposite side and deforming the bulge to contact the clamp interior. This inversion expands the adaptability of the blind rivet nut to various mounting scenarios while maintaining simple installation procedures.
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 approach prevents failure under tensile loading, enables the use of blind rivet nuts in reverse configurations, and eliminates the need for welding, providing a cost-effective and efficient solution for supporting conduits in building construction applications.
Implementation Method 1
recompressing the initial bulge formed when the blind rivet nut is first attached. During this second compression the bulge is deformed into a zigzag pattern as viewed radially. This deformation greatly enhances the stiffness of the bulge.
Data Source
AI summary
A suspension loop clamp consisting of a blind rivet nut, a metal strip, and a fastener. The blind rivet nut is inserted into the flat strip through a circular hole in the strip. The blind rivet is then plastically deformed by compression axially applied to both ends of the blind rivet nut from an unset condition to a set condition forming a radially outwardly protruding bulge, which serves to bind the blind rivet nut element to the strip. The blind rivet nut bulge and the loop clamp it is attached to are then additionally dented and thus deformed in a radial pattern so as to be zigzag in shape when viewed through a cross section. This stiffens the protruding bulge so as to restrict the blind rivet nut from reverting back to its original shape when a tensile load is applied opposite to the flange of the rivet nut. The strip of sheet metal is then formed longitudinally into a loop clamp which has bends with holes, at each end, through which a fastener is inserted to clamp the loop around a conduit.