Mechanical Nut Retention Socket for Reliable Automatic Insertion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic screwing systems face issues with mechanical retention due to incorrect coupling, require frequent maintenance of vacuum systems, and have complex setups, leading to high costs and reduced reliability.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical nut retention system using a central body with a grooved seat and a folded harmonic wire to automatically insert nuts into tightening sockets, eliminating the need for vacuum systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a vacuum system is used to retain and insert nuts automatically, then automation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to surface defects and incorrect coupling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the vacuum system with a purely mechanical retention system. A retention arm with a retention element mechanically engages with the nut's geometry (flange or shoulder) to hold and insert the nut onto the threaded rod. This mechanical direct engagement eliminates the reliability issues associated with vacuum suction on defective surfaces.
2Extent of automation
If a vacuum system is used for automatic nut retention, then automation is improved, but maintenance increases due to filter cleaning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the vacuum system components (venturi, filters, vacuum generators) entirely from the nut retention process. The mechanical retention arm system requires no filters, no vacuum generation, and no associated maintenance. The retention arm is a simple mechanical component that can be easily cleaned or replaced without complex disassembly.
3Extent of automation
If a vacuum system is used for automatic nut retention, then automation is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the entire vacuum subsystem (vacuum generator, filters, control valves, tubing) and replaces it with a simple mechanical retention arm mounted on a rotating actuator. This dramatically reduces the number of components from dozens to just a few key elements: retention arm, retention element, actuator, and mounting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention arm is designed with a universal retention element that can accommodate different nut types (flanged nuts, shouldered nuts) through geometric adaptation rather than requiring different vacuum nozzles or configurations. This multi-functional design further simplifies the system by eliminating the need for multiple specialized components.
4Extent of automation
If a vacuum system is used for automatic nut retention, then automation is improved, but energy consumption increases due to continuous vacuum operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the energy-intensive vacuum system with a passive mechanical retention arm that uses the rotational motion of the actuator to both pick up and insert the nut. The retention element engages with the nut geometry and is carried along with the arm's rotation, eliminating the need for continuous energy input to maintain suction.
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
Reduces air and energy consumption, minimizes maintenance, lowers manufacturing and spare parts costs, and ensures reliable operation with reduced mechanical components.
Implementation Method 1
at least one compression spring (15) designed to push an edge of the support body (5) to a second end
Implementation Method 2
at least one metal wire (8) to retain the nut (4) placed around the sliding pin (7) and inside the nut (4) at its third end
Implementation Method 3
Through the approach movement of the screwing socket on the nut 4, the central pin 7 is inserted into the threaded hole of the nut 4, generating an interference between the nut 4 itself and the harmonic wire 8
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
A retaining system (1) designed to retain nuts (4) to be screwed onto screws or threaded rods is described, comprising: an elongated support body (5); a screw wrench (9) placed around the support body (5) and designed to receive a nut (4) at a first end thereof; a sliding pin (7) designed to center the nut (4) and placed in a cavity (6) formed in the support body (5); a compression spring (15) designed to push an edge of the support body (5) at a second end thereof opposite the first end of the screw wrench (9); and a nut retaining wire (8) placed around the sliding pin (7) and inside the nut (4) at a third end thereof and inside the cavity (6) at a fourth end thereof opposite the third end.