Multi-Zone Threaded Fastener for Forming and Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional threaded fasteners are optimized for either thread forming or thread locking, but not both, leading to sub-optimal performance in applications where both features are required.
Innovation Solution
A fastener with two or three zones along its shaft, featuring a thread forming profile in the first zone, a constant diameter thread forming profile in the second zone, and a thread locking profile in the third zone, allowing for optimized mechanical interference and locking action by complementing the thread profiles to achieve a precise fit and locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conventional fastener is optimized for thread forming, then thread forming capability is improved, but thread locking capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is divided into multiple zones along its length, with each zone having a distinct thread profile optimized for specific functions. The first zone has a thread forming profile, the second zone has a transition profile, and the third zone has a thread locking profile. This segmentation allows each section to perform its specialized function optimally while working together as an integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the fastener shaft are given different thread characteristics tailored to local requirements. The entry portion has coarser threads for aggressive thread forming, while the distal portion has finer threads with increased interference for locking. This local differentiation of properties enables simultaneous optimization of both thread forming and locking capabilities.
2Reliability
If a conventional fastener is optimized for thread locking, then thread locking capability is improved, but thread forming capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is divided into multiple zones along its length, with each zone having a distinct thread profile optimized for specific functions. The first zone has a thread forming profile, the second zone has a transition profile, and the third zone has a thread locking profile. This segmentation allows each section to perform its specialized function optimally while working together as an integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The thread forming zones (first and second zones) perform the preliminary action of creating or reforming threads in the nut member before the thread locking zone engages. This preliminary thread formation action prepares the engagement surface, allowing the subsequent thread locking zone to achieve optimal interference and locking without compromising the fastener's overall forming capability.
3Device complexity
If a single thread profile is used throughout the fastener, then device complexity is reduced, but performance in dual applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is divided into multiple zones along its length, with each zone having a distinct thread profile optimized for specific functions. The first zone has a thread forming profile, the second zone has a transition profile, and the third zone has a thread locking profile. This segmentation allows each section to perform its specialized function optimally while working together as an integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the fastener shaft are given different thread characteristics tailored to local requirements. The entry portion has coarser threads for aggressive thread forming, while the distal portion has finer threads with increased interference for locking. This local differentiation of properties enables simultaneous optimization of both thread forming and locking capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A combined thread forming and thread locking fastener is disclosed. A fastener includes three thread zones. A first thread zone utilizes a first thread forming thread profile with an increasing outer diameter. A second thread zone extends from the end of the first zone utilizing the first thread forming thread profile and continues with a constant diameter. The third thread zone utilizes a thread locking thread profile continuing along substantially the remainder of the shaft of a fastener.