Linear Fastener System Using Collet and Compression Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening systems rely on threaded components that require rotational torque for assembly, leading to increased costs, complexity, and potential damage to delicate assemblies, while lacking a cost-effective solution for linear engagement and torque-less assembly.
Innovation Solution
A linear fastening system utilizing a cooperating collet member and compression ring with dual conical surfaces that allows for rapid linear engagement and disengagement without rotational torque, enabling precise clamping forces and adaptable to various manufacturing techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded fasteners (bolts and nuts) are used to connect components, then reliable connections are achieved, but rotational torque is required which can damage delicate assemblies and increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional fastening approach by replacing rotational torque application with linear compressive force. Instead of threading components that require rotation, the invention uses a collet member with conical surfaces that compress radially inward when a compression member is linearly pressed against it, converting the fastening action from rotational to linear direction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the threaded mechanical engagement system with a conical compression system. The collet member's conical inner surface and the compression member's conical outer surface create a mechanical advantage that converts linear compression into radial gripping force, eliminating the need for threads and rotational torque while maintaining secure connection
2Reliability
If threaded fasteners are used, then connections are secured, but assembly costs and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into distinct functional components: a collet member with conical surfaces that provides the gripping mechanism, and a separate compression member that applies linear force. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and simplifies manufacturing compared to integrated threaded fasteners
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the fastening system by eliminating threads and using conical geometry instead. The conical surfaces create a self-energizing mechanical advantage where linear compression automatically generates sufficient radial gripping force, simplifying the design while maintaining connection security
3Force
If threaded fasteners are used, then clamping forces are created, but the assembly process requires rotational torque that increases manufacturing time and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the force application method by using linear compression instead of rotational torque to generate clamping force. The conical surfaces convert the linear compressive force into radial gripping force that creates the necessary clamping effect on the workpiece
Solution Approach 2:
The collet member is pre-configured with conical inner surfaces that are positioned to engage with the compression member's conical outer surface. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when linear compression is applied, the mechanical advantage is immediately activated to generate sufficient gripping and clamping forces
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
The system provides secure connections without rotational torque, reduces manufacturing costs, and enhances assembly efficiency with precise clamping forces, suitable for automated processes and diverse applications including snap ring grooves and threaded surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
The compression member is constructed and arranged with an inner tapered compression surface preferably conjugate in shape the outer surface of the collet member. The fastener system is secured by sliding the compression member in a linear overlapping fashion over the collet member, thereby utilizing the conical surfaces to compress the collet member
Implementation Method 2
The collet member is constructed and arranged with an inner engaging surface and an outer tapered compression surface. The fastener system is secured by sliding the compression member in a linear overlapping fashion over the collet member, thereby utilizing the conical surfaces to compress the collet member and place a tensile load on the compression ring to grip the outer surface of the shank member
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a linear fastening system capable of rapid engagement and disengagement. More specifically, the system utilizes a cooperating collet member and a compression ring member which are constructed and arranged to slip easily over a shank member. The fastener system is secured by sliding a compression member in a linear overlapping fashion over the collet member thereby utilizing the conical surfaces to compress the collet member to grip the outer surface of the shank member. In this manner, the linear fastener system is capable of providing a secure connection between multiple components without the need to apply rotational torque to the assembly.