Integrated Fastener Hook Retainer for Drop-Free Device Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
During device repair, servicepersons risk dropping fasteners into mechanical components when removing parts, potentially causing damage if the device is activated, leading to user frustration, lost productivity, and additional repair costs.
Innovation Solution
A fastener retainer with a hook and countersink integrated into a surface, preventing fasteners from decoupling by allowing the head of the screw to pass through while the hook and countersink structure retains the fastener, preventing it from falling or being dislodged during disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If fasteners are removed during device repair, then parts can be disassembled for repair, but fasteners may be dropped into mechanical components causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a fastener retainer as an intermediary component between the fastener and the mechanical components. This retainer captures and holds the fastener during disassembly operations, preventing the fastener from falling into the mechanical components while still allowing the fastener to be easily removed when needed for repair work.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener retainer is pre-installed on the device surface before disassembly begins. This preliminary placement ensures that when fasteners are removed, they are immediately captured by the retainer structure, preventing them from falling into mechanical components throughout the entire repair process.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If fasteners are securely retained during disassembly, then fasteners cannot fall into mechanical components, but fasteners may become difficult to remove
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener retainer employs a dynamic retention mechanism where the retention force can be easily overridden by applying sufficient force in the removal direction. The retainer holds the fastener securely during normal disassembly operations but allows intentional removal when needed, balancing retention security with operational ease.
Data Source
AI summary
A fastener retainer may include a surface, a hook integrated into the surface, and a fastener hole defined in the surface below the hook. A substrate may include a hook extending out of and integrated into a first side of the substrate, a screw hole defined through the substrate, and a countersink formed at least equal to the height of the hook on the first side of the substrate.