Fastener Assembly Grommet Segmentation for Low Insertion Force
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastener assemblies, particularly those using H-style grommets, require high insertion forces to secure components, which can damage materials like carbon fiber and are cumbersome, lacking a simple and safe coupling method.
Innovation Solution
A fastener assembly featuring a bushing with integrated grommets that include a base, collar, and protuberances, allowing for secure coupling with reduced insertion force, noise, and vibration isolation, using a compression limiter and elastomeric members to dampen noise and vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional H-style grommet insertion method is used, then secure coupling is achieved, but high insertion forces are required that can damage components
Solution Approach 1:
The grommet is divided into multiple segments or lobes that can independently deform during insertion. This segmentation allows the grommet to progressively engage with the component holes rather than requiring simultaneous high force across the entire structure, reducing peak insertion forces while maintaining secure coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The grommet utilizes elastomeric material properties that allow it to change shape and flexibility parameters during insertion. The material can deform to pass through component holes with lower forces, then recover its original shape to provide secure retention, effectively changing physical parameters during the insertion process.
2Reliability
If traditional grommet insertion process is used, then components are secured, but the process is difficult and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The grommet is designed to be self-installing through its elastomeric properties and geometric configuration. When inserted into component holes, the grommet automatically deforms and then springs back to engage and secure the components without requiring additional fastening operations, tools, or complex assembly steps.
3Ease of operation
If high insertion forces are applied, then grommet is inserted into component, but grommet and component may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The elastomeric material of the grommet acts as a cushioning element before insertion. This material property allows the grommet to absorb and distribute insertion forces, preventing concentrated stress that could damage either the grommet itself or the component holes during the insertion process.
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
The solution enables easy, safe, and secure coupling of grommets to components with reduced insertion force, improved durability, and customizable clamp loads, addressing the limitations of traditional designs by providing robust fastening and material protection.
Implementation Method 1
The first grommet and the second grommet are configured to dampen noise and vibrations
Implementation Method 2
The first grommet and the second grommet are configured to dampen noise and vibrations, while isolating the fastener assembly from a component
Data Source
AI summary
A fastener assembly is configured to securely couple to a component. The fastener assembly includes at least one bushing, a first grommet that is coupled to the bushing(s), and a second grommet that is coupled to the bushing(s). The first grommet and the second grommet are configured to securely retain the component therebetween.