Nut Cage Mounting With Self-Positioning and Tool-Free Fixing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nut cage systems are complex and require tools for mounting, making them difficult to implement effectively.
Innovation Solution
The nut cage system includes a device for positioning and fixing using manual relative movement, with fins and abutment elements on the support for easy alignment, and a flexible lug for perpendicular positioning, allowing for self-indexing and self-centering of nuts or screws without the need for tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional nut cage systems are used, then the cage can be fixed to the support, but the mounting process becomes complex and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The cage includes self-positioning means (protrusions and recesses) that automatically align with corresponding features on the support during manual displacement, eliminating the need for tools or complex alignment procedures. The system serves itself by incorporating built-in positioning and fixing mechanisms that engage automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing mechanism is divided into separate functional elements: positioning protrusions on the cage, corresponding recesses on the support, and distinct fixing means that engage after positioning. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall mounting process.
2Ease of operation
If the cage is manually displaced to position and fix it, then tool-free mounting is achieved, but play compensation becomes critical
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing means are designed with adjustable parameters that allow relative movement between the cage and support. This relative movement capability enables the system to compensate for manufacturing tolerances and play while maintaining secure fixation after manual positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing mechanism incorporates dynamic elements that allow relative displacement during mounting, then lock into a fixed position once properly aligned. This dynamic behavior enables the system to accommodate manual positioning variations while achieving precise final positioning.
3Measurement precision
If fins and stop elements are used for positioning, then alignment in predetermined direction is ensured, but perpendicular positioning requires additional flexible legs
Solution Approach 1:
Different positioning requirements are addressed by applying different solutions at different locations: rigid fins and stop elements are used for positioning in the predetermined direction where high precision is needed, while flexible legs are used for perpendicular positioning where adaptability is more important. Each local feature is optimized for its specific function.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6B
AI summary
A nut cage system comprising a nut cage and a support on which the cage is intended to be mounted, characterised in that the nut cage (3) comprises a device with means (20, 22) for positioning and attachment on the support (5) by means of a relative manual movement of the cage (3) on the support (5) into a position in which these means (20, 22, 24) cooperate with abutment means (28, 30) of the support.