Fastener Security Plug With Tool-Assisted Socket Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security deterrents for nuts and bolts require the removal and reinstallation of bolts or nuts, which is inconvenient and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A security plug designed to be inserted into the female socket of a bolt or nut, featuring a complementary outer surface, retaining members, and a removal portion that allows withdrawal with a second tool, using mechanical or magnetic engagement to prevent loosening and facilitate easy removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a security cap is mounted on the bolt to prevent loosening, then security is improved, but the bolt must be removed and reinstalled which increases time loss and reduces convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The security device is divided into two separate components: a security plug that fits into the female socket of the fastener, and a separate removal tool. This segmentation allows the security function to be applied without modifying the fastener itself, enabling installation by simply inserting the plug into the existing socket without removing the bolt or nut.
Solution Approach 2:
The security plug is designed to be inserted into and nest within the existing female socket of the fastener. The plug's outer surface is complementary to the socket's internal geometry, allowing it to fit snugly inside the socket space already present in the fastener, thereby providing security without adding external components or requiring fastener removal.
2Reliability
If a security cap is mounted on the bolt to prevent loosening, then security is improved, but the installation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the security function from the fastener modification, the installation process is simplified. The security plug is a standalone component that interfaces with the existing socket geometry, eliminating the need for complex assembly procedures or fastener removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The security plug utilizes the existing female socket geometry of the fastener to achieve its security function. The complementary outer surface of the plug naturally engages with the socket's internal features, allowing the device to self-align and secure itself without requiring complex installation tools or procedures.
3Reliability
If retaining members are added to the plug to prevent removal, then security is improved, but the plug becomes harder to remove when needed
Solution Approach 1:
A specialized removal tool acts as an intermediary between the user and the security plug. The tool features a complementary first surface that engages with the plug's retention features (such as protrusions or magnetic elements), providing the necessary mechanical advantage to overcome the retaining members and extract the plug when removal is required.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining members are designed to provide strong retention under normal conditions but can be dynamically overcome with the application of sufficient force through the removal tool. The magnetic or mechanical retention features maintain security during operation but allow controlled removal when the complementary tool is applied, transitioning from a static security state to a removable state.
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
Enables secure prevention of bolt loosening without removing the bolt or nut, allowing for easy installation and removal of the plug without disrupting the existing fastening system, enhancing security and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The retaining member is preferably a magnet
Implementation Method 2
The engagement of the first and second surfaces may be a mechanical engagement
Data Source
AI summary
A security plug (10) adapted to be inserted into the female socket (18) of a fastener (20) to prevent a tool, such as an Allen key, engaging in the female socket. The plug (10) has an outer surface (22) complementary to the female socket (18) and a retaining member (14) that retains the plug (10) in the female socket (18), and at least one removal portion (26, 70) adapted to be engaged by a second tool (100), whereby engagement of the second tool (100) and the plug (10) allows forces applied by the second tool (100) to the plug (10) to withdraw the plug from the female socket against the action of the retaining member. The second tool and the removal portion (26, 70) may have complementary Morse tapers and the retaining member (14) may be a magnet.