Deformable U-Shaped Nut for Variable Panel Thickness Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing nut designs for attaching vehicle panels require multiple models to accommodate different panel thicknesses, leading to increased manufacturing costs and complexity in monitoring stock.
Innovation Solution
A single-piece U-shaped nut with deformable proximal portions allows for adjustable spacing between branches, enabling secure fastening on panels with varying thicknesses by accommodating different spacings and maintaining structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple nut models are provided for different panel thicknesses, then the fastening solution can accommodate various panel thicknesses, but the manufacturing cost and stock monitoring complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single nut model that can accommodate multiple panel thicknesses through its deformable proximal portion. The mounting element is designed to function across a range of thicknesses (e.g., 5mm to 15mm) without requiring different models, making one nut universally applicable to various trim elements regardless of their specific thickness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating a deformable proximal portion that can dynamically adjust its shape and spacing between branches based on the panel thickness. The proximal portion elastically deforms during installation to accommodate thicker panels and returns to its original shape for thinner panels, enabling the same nut to adapt to varying thickness conditions.
2Reliability
If multiple nut models are manufactured for different thicknesses, then each model can be optimized for specific panels, but the stock monitoring and management become expensive and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The single universal nut model eliminates the need to manufacture and manage multiple specialized models. The deformable proximal portion ensures reliable fastening across different thicknesses without requiring separate inventory for each thickness variant, significantly simplifying stock management and reducing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by allowing the proximal portion to change its geometric parameters (spacing between branches, angle relative to the web) in response to different panel thicknesses. This dynamic parameter adjustment enables the same nut to maintain fastening reliability across varying thickness conditions without requiring multiple fixed-design models.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the proximal portion is made deformable to accommodate different spacings, then a single nut model can fit various panel thicknesses, but the structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies flexible shells by designing the proximal portion as a flexible, elastically deformable structure. This flexible region allows the nut to adapt to different panel thicknesses through controlled deformation while the material properties and geometric design ensure that the deformation remains within elastic limits, preserving structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable proximal portion acts as a cushioning element that absorbs the variability in panel thickness. By designing this portion to elastically deform beforehand, the patent prevents stress concentration and potential failure in other critical areas of the nut, thereby maintaining overall structural integrity while accommodating thickness variations.
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 allows for efficient and cost-effective fastening of vehicle panels with different thicknesses, ensuring strong attachment without local weakening, and simplifies manufacturing by eliminating the need for multiple nut models.
Implementation Method 1
The proximal portion of at least one of the first and second branches is deformable so as to allow the distal portions of the first branch and the second branch to be positioned parallel to one another with different spacings
Data Source
AI summary
A nut in the form of a mounting element made in a single piece and having a first branch and a second branch connected by a web, the first branch and the second branch each including a proximal portion connected to the web and a distal portion extending the proximal portion. The nut includes a screwing element supported by the distal portion of the first branch, with a bore extending inside the screwing element along a screwing axis and emerging inside the mounting element through the distal portion of the first branch. The second branch includes an opening passing through the distal portion of the second branch opposite the bore. The proximal portion of at least one of the first and second branches is deformable so as to allow the distal portions of the first branch and the second branch to be positioned parallel to one another with different spacings.