Knurled Fastener Assembly for Single-Sided Semi-Trailer Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastener assemblies require two persons to assemble, as the first part (e.g., T-nut) is applied from one side of a wall and the second part (e.g., screw or locking nut) from the other, leading to issues like dislodgment and rotation, especially in environments like semitrailer truck bodies, and pose challenges in minimizing axial length for low profile and ensuring tool connection for removal.
Innovation Solution
A fastener assembly with a knurled shank and encapsulating plastic seal, where the knurled shank prevents rotation and dislodgment during assembly, and the plastic seal facilitates easy removal, allowing single-sided assembly and ensuring sufficient axial extension for tool connection without excessive profile.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a T-nut is applied from one side of a wall and a screw is applied from the other side, then the fastener assembly can be completed, but two persons are required and the first fastener part may become dislodged or turn during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener assembly is divided into two functional parts: a T-nut with knurled shank for insertion from one side, and a screw for tightening from the other side. The knurled shank segment provides anchoring function while the screw provides fastening function, allowing the system to be operated from opposite sides of the wall independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The knurled shank acts as an intermediary element that transfers and maintains the positioning of the T-nut through the wall thickness. The knurls provide mechanical interlocking with the wall material, serving as a mediator that holds the first fastener part in place during the application of the second part from the opposite side.
2Length of moving object
If the axial extension of the fastener assembly past the wall is minimized for low profile, then the profile is reduced, but there is insufficient extension for tool connection and torque application
Solution Approach 1:
The head structure incorporates localized geometric features (shaped drive projection with recesses) that concentrate the tool engagement function in a specific local area. This allows the overall axial extension to be minimized while maintaining sufficient local projection for tool connection and torque application during installation and removal.
3Reliability
If an encapsulating plastic seal is added to protect the fastener and facilitate removal, then corrosion protection and easy removal are improved, but the head structure becomes more complex and plastic may remain on the head after removal
Solution Approach 1:
The encapsulating plastic seal is designed as a disposable protective element that fulfills its function during assembly and can be easily removed when no longer needed. The plastic provides temporary corrosion protection and facilitates initial assembly, then can be popped off completely to reveal the drive projection for removal operations, accepting that it is a single-use component.
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 single-person assembly of fasteners, prevents dislodgment and rotation, and allows for clean removal of the plastic cover, ensuring proper tool engagement and torque application.
Implementation Method 1
The knurled shank prevents the first portion of the fastener assembly from coming loose or from rotating while the threaded fastener is being inserted and tightened
Data Source
AI summary
A fastener assembly to be used in the construction of semi-trailers consisting of a first fastener having a head and a shank, a mating second fastener, and a plurality of axially extending knurls formed on the shank. The knurls engage in a hole for receiving the first fastener to prevent rotation and removal of the first fastener. The first fastener may also be provided with an encapsulating cover with two sealing points on its underside to seal the fastener to a surface through which the fastener is inserted.