Low-Profile Fastener Installation Tool for Limited Access Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tools face challenges in accessing and installing fasteners in workpieces with limited access spaces due to angled walls and small access points, preventing axial entry or rocking into place.
Innovation Solution
A compact tool assembly with a low outer profile that enters the access point transversely to engage a fastener's locking feature, securing together and pulling it into an interference fit with the workpiece, utilizing a tool locking feature to apply torque for installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a pull-in type tool is used to install fasteners, then the tool can apply axial force to pull the fastener into the hole, but the tool cannot access the hole due to the angle of the wall and small access space
Solution Approach 1:
The tool transitions from axial approach (along the first axis) to transverse approach (perpendicular to the first axis) to access the aperture. This dimensional change allows the tool to reach the fastener through the small access space created by the angled wall, enabling both accessibility and installation capability
Data Source
AI summary
An installation tool assembly includes a workpiece and a tool. The workpiece includes a first wall having an aperture and a second wall spaced from the first wall relative to a first axis to present an access point therebetween. The installation tool assembly includes a fastener disposed in the aperture of the first wall at an initial position. The fastener includes a hole and a fastener locking feature disposed inside the hole. The tool includes a tool locking feature that is configured to engage the fastener locking feature to secure together the fastener and the tool in the initial position. The tool is operable to pull the fastener farther through the aperture into an interference fit with the first wall in an installed position. A tooling assembly includes the tool and the fastener. A method of installing the fastener to the workpiece uses the tool.