Illuminated Fastener Conversion Kit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fasteners without a light source require complete replacement to incorporate a light source, leading to increased costs and complexity in applications needing warning or indication lighting.
Innovation Solution
A fastener conversion kit comprising a light source unit and a light guide, which can be integrated between the securing member and the main body of a fastener, allowing for the addition of a light source without replacing the entire fastener, using a threaded securing member with a groove to house the light source unit and a light guide to direct light towards the fastener's front portion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional fastener without a light source is completely replaced with a fastener that contains a light source, then the warning or indication function is achieved, but the cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener system is divided into separate functional modules: the original fastener body (main body + securing member) and the light source unit. The light source unit can be independently installed between the main body and securing member without modifying the original fastener structure, achieving functional segmentation that reduces overall system complexity while adding illumination capability
Solution Approach 2:
The light source unit is nested within the existing fastener structure by positioning it in the space between the main body and securing member. This nested arrangement allows the light source to be integrated into the fastener assembly without requiring complete replacement, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the warning function
2Reliability
If a conventional fastener without a light source is completely replaced with a fastener that contains a light source, then the warning or indication function is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the fastener system into the original fastener components and a separate light source unit, the manufacturing process is simplified. The original fastener can be produced using existing processes, and the light source unit can be manufactured independently and installed later, avoiding the need to manufacture and assemble a completely new integrated fastener, thereby reducing manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 2:
The light source unit is designed as a pre-assembled module that can be independently manufactured and tested before installation. This preliminary preparation allows for standardized production of the light source unit, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost compared to integrating the light source into the fastener manufacturing process
3Illumination intensity
If the entire fastener is replaced to add a light source, then the illumination function is achieved, but the time and effort for replacement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The light source functionality is segmented into a separate installable unit rather than being integrated into the entire fastener. This allows for selective replacement or addition of only the light source component, significantly reducing the time and effort required compared to replacing the entire fastener assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener system is made dynamically configurable by allowing the light source unit to be added or removed independently. The securing member can be temporarily loosened to install the light source unit between itself and the main body, enabling quick modification without permanent structural changes or complete replacement, thereby reducing replacement time
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 a cost-effective and simplified conversion of non-illuminated fasteners into illuminated ones, providing a lighting ring for warning or indication purposes while maintaining the existing fastener structure, reducing manufacturing costs and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a light source unit securable between the securing member and the front portion of the main body, for providing light to illuminate the front portion of the main body
Implementation Method 2
a light guide adapted to be arranged between the front portion of the main body and the light source unit, for guiding light generated from the light source unit toward the front portion of the main body
Data Source
AI summary
A fastener includes a main body having a front portion and a rear portion, a securing member engageable with the rear portion of the main body, and a light source unit securable between the securing member and the front portion of the main body, for providing light to illuminate the front portion of the main body.