Flexible Blind Bolt Installation Tool for Restricted Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for installing blind bolts in restricted access environments with obstructions, such as small structures or structures with internal obstructions, face difficulties due to the inability to insert installation tools far enough to manipulate the bolt components effectively.
Innovation Solution
A flexible tool apparatus with a connector and flexible member allows the threaded member to be inserted into the structure, featuring a connector that mounts to the threaded member and a flexible member extending out of the hole for grasping, enabling the unfolding of a folding washer and secure installation of the blind bolt, even in constricted spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rigid installation tool is used to install blind bolts, then the tool can maintain structural stability, but the tool cannot be inserted far enough into structures with obstructions to manipulate bolt components effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rigid installation tool with a flexible cable assembly that can bend and navigate around internal obstructions within the structure. The flexible cable allows the installer to reach deep into confined spaces where rigid tools cannot penetrate, enabling manipulation of bolt components at the required insertion depth.
Solution Approach 2:
The installation tool transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible cable system that can adapt its shape and configuration based on the internal geometry of the structure. This dynamic flexibility allows the tool to navigate complex pathways and reach target locations that rigid tools cannot access.
2Length of moving object
If the installation tool is made flexible to reach into restricted spaces, then the tool can access confined areas, but the tool loses structural stability for manipulating bolt components
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cable tool is segmented into multiple functional components including a cable body, connector, and manipulation mechanism. Each segment performs a specific function, and the modular design allows the flexible cable to maintain sufficient structural stability at the manipulation point while remaining flexible along its length to reach confined spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible cable acts as an intermediary transmission medium that transfers mechanical forces and movements from the accessible exterior location to the inaccessible interior location. The cable transmits the installer's manual operations through the flexible medium to manipulate bolt components deep within the structure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional blind bolt installation method is used, then the process is simple and direct, but the method cannot be applied to structures with internal obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cable assembly enables the installation method to adapt to restricted access environments by replacing rigid tools with a flexible medium that can navigate around obstructions. This flexibility in tool design allows the same basic installation process to be applied to both simple and complex structural configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus including a threaded member having a head, a shaft extending away from the head, threads disposed on at least a portion of the shaft, and a tip opposite the head. The head, tip, shaft, and threads are sized to pass through a hole in a structure such that the threaded member may be inserted into the structure. The apparatus further includes a tool for mounting to the threaded member that extends out of out the hole when the threaded member is located within the structure. The tool includes a connector that mounts to the tip of the threaded member and a flexible member that extends away from the connector and out of the hole when the threaded member is located within the structure.