Multi-Thread Fastener Clip Assembly for Self-Aligning Panel Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fasteners face issues with unequal insertion and extraction forces, misalignment, wing breakage, and inability to self-align with varying sheet metal thicknesses and tolerances, leading to rattling, buzzing, and inadequate attachment under environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A fastener clip assembly with a pair of outer and inner legs, tapered for easy insertion, featuring multiple platforms with threads and wings that engage the slot, and optional support structures to enhance torque tolerance and prevent misalignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional single piece fasteners are used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the fastener is prone to wing breakage and cannot self-align with varying sheet metal thicknesses and tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is divided into multiple segments: a body portion and multiple torque arms (at least two) that are rotatably connected to the body. This segmentation allows each torque arm to independently adjust its position and orientation, enabling self-alignment with varying sheet metal thicknesses and tolerances while distributing mechanical stresses to prevent wing breakage.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque arms are designed to be rotatable relative to the body portion, transforming the static single-piece fastener into a dynamic multi-degree-of-freedom structure. This dynamic capability allows the fastener to adapt its configuration during installation and operation, self-aligning with the slot and accommodating variations in sheet metal geometry without requiring precise pre-alignment.
2Force
If conventional single piece fasteners with sharp grooves are used, then insertion force is sufficient, but extraction force is too low and the groove is cut by sharp slot edges making the fastener non-reusable
Solution Approach 1:
The torque arms are pre-configured with spring elements or damping mechanisms that provide cushioning force during insertion and extraction. This beforehand cushioning protects the groove from being cut by sharp slot edges, maintains engagement force over multiple cycles, and enables the fastener to be reused without loss of functionality.
3Device complexity
If conventional fasteners are used, then simple structure is maintained, but misalignment between frame slot and fastener causes unequal forces on wings leading to breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener structure enables self-alignment through the rotatable torque arms that automatically adjust their positions during insertion. The at least two torque arms work together to self-correct misalignment between the frame slot and fastener, distributing forces evenly across all wings without requiring external alignment tools or complex adjustment mechanisms.
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 fastener clip assembly provides secure, reusable attachment with self-alignment capabilities, reducing wing breakage and noise, and maintaining stability under varying conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a pair of spaced-apart resilient torque arms extending laterally from the base portion
Implementation Method 2
a threaded member extending through the torque arms and engaging the threads
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method including a first leg (60) and a second leg (60) opposite the first leg. The first leg includes a first top portion (70) and a first bottom portion and the second leg includes a second top portion (70) and a second bottom portion. Also included is a first wing (75) extending from the first leg and a second wing (75) extending from the second leg. In addition, two or more platforms (21,22,23) are included coupling the first leg and the second leg near the first bottom portion and near the second bottom portion. At least two of the two or more platforms include a thread (31,32,33), and each of the threads is configured to receive a screw.