Nutmount Apparatus Interference Fit Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The aircraft industry faces inefficiencies in securing structural members due to manual assembly processes, which increase time, expense, and the risk of worker error, particularly in the use of nutmounts that require rivets and expansion tools.
Innovation Solution
A nutmount apparatus comprising a sleeve with a central channel and a bushing with a tapered end and opposing projections, allowing for an interference fit without rivets or expansion tools, enabling securement of structural members using a threaded bolt or screw.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual assembly processes are used to secure structural members with nutmounts, then the process allows flexibility in installation, but the time required and expense increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The nutmount apparatus is divided into separate components: a nutmount body with an anchor nut integrated therein, and a separate retainer that secures the assembly to the structural member. This segmentation allows for pre-assembly of the nutmount and anchor nut, reducing on-site assembly time while maintaining installation flexibility through the modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor nut is pre-integrated into the nutmount body during manufacturing, and the retainer is designed to be pre-assembled with the nutmount. This preliminary action eliminates the need for on-site threading and assembly operations, significantly reducing assembly time while preserving the flexibility to install in various configurations.
2Strength
If rivets and expansion tools are used to secure the nutmount, then the anchor nut can be firmly attached, but the complexity of the installation process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is designed with resilient arms that automatically engage with the structural member when the nutmount assembly is inserted into the pre-drilled hole. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external expansion tools or rivets to secure the anchor nut, reducing installation complexity while maintaining firm attachment strength through the interference fit and resilient engagement.
3Reliability
If traditional nutmount methods are used requiring multiple tools, then secure attachment is achieved, but the potential for worker error increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor nut is merged with the nutmount body as an integrated assembly, and the retainer is designed to work as a single unit with this assembly. This merging eliminates multiple separate fastening operations and tool interventions, reducing the opportunities for worker error while maintaining reliable attachment security through the unified design.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient retainer arms automatically self-adjust and self-secure when the nutmount assembly is inserted into the hole, eliminating the need for worker judgment or manual adjustment. This self-service characteristic reduces worker error potential while ensuring consistent, secure attachment across all installations.
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
Simplifies the anchor nut mounting and removal process, reducing time and expense while providing a secure interference fit for structural members, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly without the need for additional tools.
Implementation Method 1
an interference fit between the portion of the bushing spaced apart from the tapered end and the sleeve may be created
Data Source
AI summary
A nutmount apparatus includes a sleeve, a bushing insertable into the sleeve and a nut. The nutmount apparatus may further include a nut retainer for holding an internally threaded nut. The nutmount apparatus may be used, in conjunction with a threaded screw or bolt, to secure a first structure, such as an aircraft wall or cover panel, to a second structure, such as an aircraft frame.