Panel Clamp Fastener Assembly for Fewer Vehicle Canopy Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening methods for assembling vehicle canopies are expensive, complex, and require a large number of fastening points, making them time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device comprising a male member with a projection and base, a female member with a complementary opening, a washer, and a securing bolt, which clamps panels together through a nyloc threaded insert, reducing the number of fastening points and simplifying the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If studs and nuts are used to join panels, then the panels can be securely fastened, but the number of fastening points increases to 48, making assembly expensive, complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated clamp assembly that can secure multiple panels simultaneously. The clamp body with multiple arms and the central securing mechanism replace what would traditionally require multiple separate fasteners, reducing the 48 fastening points to a manageable number of clamp assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly is designed as a multi-functional device that can fasten multiple panels (at least three panels) simultaneously using a single securing action. The universal design allows it to work with different panel configurations and provides both mechanical clamping and sealing functions in one component system.
2Reliability
If Dirak fasteners with retractable wings are used, then panel fastening is achieved, but the fasteners are relatively expensive and complex in configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex retractable wing mechanism from the Dirak fastener design and replaces it with a simpler clamp arm system that achieves the same panel securing function through a different mechanical approach, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining fastening reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly uses simpler, more cost-effective materials and construction methods compared to the expensive Dirak fasteners. The design prioritizes functional adequacy over sophisticated mechanics, using straightforward metal fabrication and assembly that reduces manufacturing costs.
3Reliability
If multiple separate fasteners are used, then panels can be joined, but the assembly process becomes technical, complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly merges multiple fastening operations into a single assembly action. By positioning multiple clamp arms around several panels simultaneously and securing them with a single fastening operation, the system dramatically reduces assembly time compared to installing multiple separate fasteners sequentially.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp arms are pre-positioned and configured to engage with the panels before the final securing action. This preliminary positioning allows for quick alignment and reduces the time required during the actual assembly process, as the geometry is already prepared for rapid engagement.
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
The solution reduces the number of fastening points required, making the assembly process quicker, cheaper, and more reliable, while providing a robust and effective seal to prevent fluid leakage.
Implementation Method 1
a second securing component which is configured to mate with the first securing component and to secure the washer against the female member, thereby clamping the at least two panels or flanges between the female member and the male member
Implementation Method 2
The wings (4, 5) may be actuated by a spring-loaded key or actuator provided at an end region of the body (3). When actuated, the wings (4, 5) are displaced outwardly relative to the body (3) to clamp the two panels (6, 7) between the wings (4, 5) and a lip (8)
Data Source
AI summary
A fastening device for fastening at least two panels or flanges to each other is disclosed. The device comprises a male member, a female member and a washer. The male member is inserted into and at least partially through aligned slots in the panels or flanges. The male member includes or houses a first securing component. The female member defines an opening generally complementally shaped to the projection of the male member. The male member and the female member are configured to receive the at least two panels or flanges between them when the projection is received in the opening. The washer mates with the female member such that displacement of the washer relative to the female member towards the male member is substantially prevented. The device further comprises a second securing component configured to mate with the first securing component and to secure the washer against the female member.