Modular Fuel Tank Stud with Integrated Axial Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing devices for vehicle equipment, such as fuel tanks, are not suitable for high tightening forces due to the destruction of the central part of the stud during excessive screwing, and lack modularity to accommodate different screw-nut assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A fixing device with a stud featuring a through axial housing that integrates the screw, where the screw is axially downward protruding, and a peripheral annular body and central part produced by molding in synthetic materials, allowing for a modular design with a stepped cavity to accommodate various screw dimensions and independent metal nut assembly for secure tightening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the stud uses a previously tapped or self-tapping central part to receive a fixing screw, then the device can be easily assembled, but excessive tightening forces or torques lead to destruction of the central part of the stud
Solution Approach 1:
The stud is divided into two distinct parts: a peripheral annular body made of synthetic material for easy assembly and bonding to the fuel tank, and a central part made of metal for receiving the fixing screw and withstanding high tightening forces. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The stud combines two different materials: synthetic material (polyethylene or polyamide) for the annular body that bonds well with fuel tank material, and metal for the central part that provides the necessary strength and toughness to resist destruction under high tightening forces or torques.
2Ease of manufacture
If the fixing device uses a standardized stud design, then manufacturing is simplified, but the device lacks adaptability to different screw-nut assemblies and dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The stud design with its through axial housing and standardized interface can accommodate various screw-nut assemblies of different dimensions and types. The housing geometry can be adjusted while maintaining the basic stud structure, allowing one fundamental design to serve multiple fastening applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The through axial housing is pre-formed during the molding process of the annular body, allowing the screw to be inserted and positioned before final assembly. This preliminary preparation facilitates easier assembly and enables the use of different screw types without requiring complex post-processing.
3Ease of operation
If the central part of the stud protrudes axially downward beyond the lower transverse face, then the screw can be properly positioned and integrated, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The through axial housing that positions and integrates the screw is merged directly into the annular body during the molding process. This integration eliminates the need for separate positioning features or additional assembly steps, reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining ease of screw integration.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an attachment device including a pad (20) forming a spacer, which is adhered or welded to the tank, and a screw-nut assembly (22, 24) including a threaded rod which extends axially through a hole (18) of the component, in which one of the two elements is rigidly connected to the pad (20) and in which the other one is independent and capable of being screwed and unscrewed, characterised in that the pad (20) includes a through axial recess (48) in which the screw (22) which is rigidly connected to the pad (20) is arranged, the threaded rod of which projects axially downwards beyond a lower transverse surface (42) of the pad (20).