Modular Fastener Bracket Assembly for Variable Nail Lengths
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing explosively driven fastener systems require a large inventory of power charge/nail/bracket combinations due to variability in applications, leading to high inventory costs and significant waste when malfunctions or misfires occur, as entire assemblies are typically scrapped.
Innovation Solution
A modular tool system that allows for adjustable nail lengths and interchangeable bracket configurations, featuring a bracket with a metal plate or strap stock design and a separate explosive load assembly with a firing pin mechanism, enabling the reuse of components and reducing waste by allowing for the salvage of individual parts in case of malfunction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large inventory of power charge/nail/bracket combinations is maintained to accommodate different applications, then adaptability is improved, but inventory cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the fastener assembly into separate modular components: brackets, nails, and power charges. Each component can be independently selected and combined based on specific application requirements, eliminating the need to maintain complete pre-assembled units for every possible configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket design incorporates universal features such as adjustable arm lengths and interchangeable mounting configurations that can accommodate multiple fastening applications. This allows a single bracket type to serve multiple functions across different applications, reducing the variety of bracket styles needed in inventory.
2Reliability
If entire power charge/nail/bracket assemblies are scrapped due to misfire or malfunction, then reliability is improved by eliminating defective units, but waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular design enables selective replacement of only the defective component (power charge, nail, or bracket) while retaining and reusing the functional components. This recovers valuable materials and reduces waste compared to discarding entire assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the fastener system into replaceable modules, the invention allows isolation and replacement of only the failed component rather than the entire assembly, minimizing material waste while ensuring reliable operation.
3Device complexity
If fixed nail length and bracket configuration are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different applications decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates adjustable elements such as variable nail lengths and reconfigurable bracket configurations that can be dynamically changed to match different application requirements. This dynamic adaptability allows the same basic device to serve multiple purposes without requiring complex specialized designs for each application.
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 modular system significantly reduces inventory costs and waste by accommodating different nail lengths and bracket configurations, allowing for the reuse of components and enhancing safety during malfunction or failure scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
the firing pin strikes the explosive load causing the explosive load to explode and drive the nail out of the muzzle assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket for attachment to an overhead substrate to carry a suspending wire or rod is formed from metal plate or strap stock having a bend connecting a first generally rectangular section of the stock with a second generally rectangular section of the stock. The first generally rectangular section of stock has a dimple formed on one side of the stock with a corresponding bulge protruding from the other side. The bulge protrudes alongside the second generally rectangular section of stock. The bulge has a base and an apex, a generally conical outside surface adjacent to the first u) generally rectangular section of stock and a through aperture at the apex. The bracket is applied with a tool that can be provided with a washer system to accommodate different fastener lengths and a safety to deactivate the triggering mechanism.