Nutless Bolt Axial Actuation Radial Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening systems, such as rivets, require destruction for removal, whereas nutless bolts need a mechanism to securely lock and unlock without damage, posing challenges in design and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A nutless bolt design featuring a shaft with an axially extending bore, a locking mechanism that extends radially to secure the bolt, and an actuating mechanism that moves axially to lock or release the bolt, allowing for secure insertion and easy removal without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to enable secure fastening, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into discrete components: a locking element with radial locking surfaces, and corresponding locking recesses in the bore. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall reliability, and simplifies manufacturing and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is nested within the bore of the shaft, with the locking mechanism integrated into the existing shaft structure rather than being a separate external component. This nesting reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the secure fastening function.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent removal, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than static. The locking element can transition between engaged and disengaged states, allowing the bolt to be securely locked during operation but easily removed when needed. The actuating mechanism enables controlled transitions between these states.
Solution Approach 2:
An actuating mechanism serves as an intermediary between the user and the locking element. This intermediary component simplifies the operation of engaging and disengaging the locking mechanism, making it easy to operate while maintaining secure locking when engaged.
3Ease of operation
If an actuating mechanism is added to enable removal, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating mechanism is merged with the locking element and bore structure. The actuating mechanism utilizes the same radial space and structural features as the locking mechanism, combining multiple functions into a single integrated assembly rather than adding separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating mechanism serves multiple functions: it engages the locking element to secure the bolt, disengages the locking element to enable removal, and provides structural support within the bore. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components.
Data Source
AI summary
A nutless bolt includes a body having a shaft and a stop coupled to the shaft. Shaft is dimensioned to allow passage through a hole formed in a structure into which the bolt is inserted. The stop prevents body from falling into or through the hole. An axial bore formed in body houses a locking mechanism extending radially from shaft to lock body and nutless bolt in the hole. An actuator pin movable along the bore in a generally down hole direction through various positions. Position L1 is a pre-application position; position L2 is a locking position; and position L3 is a release position. Pin is movable in the down hole direction from L2 where the pin causes the locking mechanism to extend radially from shaft to lock the body in the hole, to L3 where the pin is retained in the body and displaced relative to the locking mechanism.