Additive Nut Retention Features for Assembly Simplification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional nut and bolt arrangements for coupling components to parts require manual handling of nuts, which is cumbersome and costly, and often involve permanent fastening methods that add complexity and weight.
Innovation Solution
The development of a system where retention features are integrated into the part during additive manufacturing, allowing for lateral, transverse, and rotational retention of a nut element without the need for manual holding or permanent attachment, using a deformable lock and retainers to secure the nut element in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual holding of nut is used during assembly, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming manual handling
Solution Approach 1:
The nut is designed with self-retention features including a non-circular base that engages with a retention feature in the part, and a deformable lock element that automatically secures the nut in place. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual holding during fastener installation, improving productivity while maintaining ease of operation.
2Reliability
If permanent fastening of nut to part is used, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is segmented into distinct functional elements: a retention feature in the part, a corresponding feature on the nut base, and a deformable lock element. This segmentation provides reliable retention through multiple engagement points while keeping the overall device complexity manageable through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable lock element provides dynamic retention that adapts to assembly forces. The lock element can deform during installation to accommodate the nut, then maintains permanent retention once secured, providing reliability without requiring complex permanent fastening systems.
3Reliability
If permanent fastening methods are used, then reliability is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nut's self-retention features eliminate the need for additional permanent fastening elements such as welds, adhesives, or separate retaining clips. The integrated retention mechanism provides reliable nut retention while minimizing weight by using only the essential structural components of the nut itself.
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
This solution simplifies the assembly process by eliminating the need for manual handling and permanent fastening, reducing weight and complexity while maintaining secure fastening of components.
Implementation Method 1
The deformable lock includes a resiliently deformable element. The resiliently deformable element can protrude from the surface in a non-deformed state and is flush with the surface in a deformed state.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is an apparatus that includes a surface. The apparatus also includes a stop, deformable lock, first retainer, and second retainer coupled to the surface. The deformable lock is spaced apart from the stop in a first direction. The first retainer includes a first overhang. The second retainer includes a second overhang, and the second retainer is spaced apart from the first retainer in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.