Two-Part Connector Removal by Sleeve Cutting Without Drilling

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for removing two-part connectors, such as pin fasteners or lockbolts, from workpiece arrangements are complex, time-consuming, and often damage the workpiece, as they typically require drilling out the connector.

Innovation Solution

A method involving cutting the sleeve or bolt of the two-part connector, allowing for quick and non-damaging removal without the need for drilling, using a cutting tool that can efficiently cut the connector components while minimizing damage to the workpiece.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If drilling out the connector is used for removal, then the connector can be removed from the workpiece arrangement, but the workpiece is damaged and the process is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector removalVSAvoidworkpiece damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into two separate parts: a bolt that remains in the workpiece and a sleeve that can be removed. By cutting the sleeve from the bolt, the removable sleeve takes the connector out of the workpiece while the bolt stays intact, avoiding damage to the workpiece structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The sleeve is extracted as a separate removable component from the connector assembly. By cutting the sleeve off the bolt and removing only the sleeve, the connector function is reversed (installation vs. removal) without affecting the workpiece, allowing easy removal without damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Productivity

If drilling out the connector is used for removal, then the connector can be removed, but the process is complicated and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnector removal speedVSAvoidremoval process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

During the installation phase, the connector is designed with a cutout feature in the sleeve that allows for easy subsequent removal. This preliminary design feature enables quick removal by simply inserting a removal tool into the cutout and pulling the sleeve off the bolt, eliminating the need for complex drilling operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The installation and removal processes are inverted: during installation, the sleeve is pushed onto the bolt; during removal, the sleeve is pulled off the bolt using the cutout feature. This inversion allows removal to be as simple as the installation, avoiding complicated drilling procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS12202031B2Method for removing a two-part connector in a workpiece arrangement

Publication Date: 2025.01.21 AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH

AI summary

A method for removing a two-part connector in a workpiece arrangement includes providing a workpiece arrangement having first and second surfaces and having a hole connecting the first surface to the second surface. A connector is fastened in the hole, which connector has a bolt extending along a central axis and a sleeve fastened on the bolt. The bolt has a head portion and a shank portion with retaining grooves. The sleeve is fastened to the bolt on the side of the second surface such that the inner surface thereof engages with the retaining grooves and prevents a relative movement of bolt and sleeve parallel to the central axis. The sleeve has an outside diameter which is greater than the diameter of the hole in the workpiece arrangement. The sleeve is cut and or the bolt, and the connector is removed from the hole.