Interlocking Grating Fastener Structure for Shear Load Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fasteners for securing grating panels are prone to deformation under shear loads and involve material wastage and complexity in manufacturing due to their cross-shaped design, requiring additional processing steps for adapter integration.
Innovation Solution
A fastener comprising interlocking clip members with upwardly extending arm portions and hook features, arranged horizontally and at angles to prevent deformation, and a fastening element that is rotatable within a multi-layered structure, allowing for efficient assembly and reduced material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a cross-shaped clip structure is used to secure grating panels, then the fastener can engage with panels from multiple sides, but the clip is prone to deformation under shear loads and requires additional processing steps for adapter integration
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is divided into multiple independent U-shaped clip members (first clip member, second clip member, third clip member, fourth clip member) arranged around the support. Each clip member independently engages with grating panels from different directions, avoiding the deformation issues of a single cross-shaped structure while maintaining multi-directional engagement capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a cross-shaped clip structure is used to secure grating panels, then the fastener can engage with panels from multiple sides, but material waste and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is divided into multiple independent U-shaped clip members that can be manufactured separately and then assembled around the support. This segmentation allows for simpler manufacturing of each individual clip member compared to a complex cross-shaped structure, while still achieving multi-directional engagement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Each U-shaped clip member serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, engages with grating panels from different directions, and can be assembled in a modular fashion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components and simplifies the overall manufacturing process.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the adapter diameter at ends is larger than the body portion to keep it within the fastener, then the adapter is retained, but additional pressing process is required
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is nested within the hollow cylindrical body of the support, with the adapter's outer surface fitting within the inner surface of the support body. This nesting arrangement retains the adapter within the fastener structure without requiring additional pressing processes or complex retention mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A fastener, includes a first clip member having a first base portion and two first arm portions that extend upwardly from two sides of the first base portion, a second clip member locked with the first clip member and having a second base portion and two second arm portions that extend upwardly from two sides of the second base portion, and at least one hook portion extending from a distal end of one of the first and second arm portions, wherein the first and second clip members are arranged horizontally along two different directions, the second base portion is positioned on the first base portion.