Hybrid Three-Point Fastener Geometry for Multi-Tool Torque Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fasteners require oversized bearing portions to prevent incorrect usage, leading to increased material and production costs, and potential for incorrect fastener installation despite the oversizing, while also not accommodating all tool types, especially for mechanics without specialized tools.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid three-point drive fastener design featuring three pairs of equally spaced bearing surfaces for torque transmission, complemented by six concave bearing surfaces for enhanced tool compatibility, and three convex non-bearing surfaces for structural support, allowing for standard tool usage and reducing material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the bearing portion of the fastener is oversized to prevent incorrect usage, then the mistake-proofing capability is improved, but the weight of the fastener increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing portion is segmented into multiple functional zones: a first bearing portion with first bearing surfaces for torque transmission, a second bearing portion with second bearing surfaces for tool engagement, and a non-bearing portion with non-bearing surfaces. This segmentation allows each zone to serve its specific function without requiring the entire bearing portion to be oversized, thereby reducing material usage while maintaining mistake-proofing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the bearing portion are given different properties and functions. The first bearing surfaces are designed for torque transmission with specific geometric features, the second bearing surfaces are designed for tool engagement with complementary geometry, and the non-bearing surfaces provide structural support without participating in torque transmission. This local differentiation optimizes material distribution and reduces overall weight.
2Reliability
If the bearing portion of the fastener is oversized to prevent incorrect usage, then the mistake-proofing capability is improved, but the cost of the fastener increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing portion is divided into functional segments that can be manufactured more efficiently. The first bearing portion and second bearing portion have distinct geometric features that can be produced using optimized machining or forming processes, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost compared to a uniformly oversized bearing portion.
Solution Approach 2:
Material is concentrated only where functionally required - in the bearing surfaces for torque transmission and tool engagement - rather than distributing material throughout an oversized bearing portion. This reduces material costs, heat treating costs, plating costs, and packaging costs associated with excess material.
3Weight of moving object
If the bearing portion is reduced to decrease weight, then the weight of the fastener is reduced, but the tool compatibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing portion is designed with multiple functional zones that can interface with different tool types. The first bearing surfaces with their specific geometry can engage with one type of tool, while the second bearing surfaces with complementary geometry can engage with another tool type. This multi-functional design allows a single fastener to be compatible with multiple standard tool types without requiring an oversized bearing portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing portion is segmented into distinct regions with different geometric features optimized for different tool interfaces. This segmentation allows the fastener to accommodate multiple tool types while maintaining a compact, weight-efficient design, as each segment only provides the specific geometric features needed for its intended tool interface.
Data Source
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AI summary
Fasteners are disclosed for use with multiple standard torque delivery tools. The fasteners include several different torque bearing portions for use with different torque delivery tools, as well as non-torque bearing portions disposed between torque bearing portions.