Pegboard Fastener Thread Geometry for Reusable Secure Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fasteners for pegboard gondolas are disposable, damaging the pegboard and costly due to frequent replacement, and lack efficient reusable designs.
Innovation Solution
A threaded fastener with unique thread configuration featuring flat edges and sloped sections that allow secure attachment without damaging pegboard holes, combined with a nut for additional securement, and optional standoffs for enhanced attachment options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional threaded screws are used to secure pegboard gondolas, then secure attachment is achieved, but the holes are damaged after repeated removal and insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The thread is segmented into three flat edges per revolution instead of a continuous helical form. This segmentation allows the thread to engage and disengage from the hole in a controlled manner, distributing stress and preventing the progressive damage that occurs with conventional continuous threads.
Solution Approach 2:
The thread geometry transitions from a conventional two-dimensional helical path to a three-dimensional form with three distinct flat edges spaced 120 degrees apart. This dimensional change allows the fastener to engage multiple points around the hole circumference simultaneously, distributing load and reducing localized damage during insertion and removal.
2Ease of manufacture
If disposable clips are used for pegboard displays, then ease of manufacture and low initial cost are achieved, but replacement costs and environmental impact increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener is designed to be recovered and reused multiple times instead of being discarded after single use. The unique thread geometry enables the fastener to be removed and reinstalled repeatedly without damage, transforming a disposable product into a reusable one and eliminating the need for frequent replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The thread parameters (three flat edges at 120 degrees, specific pitch and depth) are optimized to allow repeated insertion and removal cycles. This parameter optimization changes the durability characteristic from single-use to multi-use, significantly reducing replacement frequency while maintaining ease of manufacture through consistent geometric features.
3Ease of manufacture
If clips without removal features are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but ease of operation for removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The thread profile is asymmetric with three flat edges instead of a symmetric circular cross-section. This asymmetry creates directional engagement where the flat edges can be inserted smoothly but require specific rotational movement for removal, providing easy removal capability while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through a single-piece molded design.
Data Source
AI summary
A screw includes a head having and a stem with spaced apart threads. The thread of the thread of the screw includes flat spots and sloped section, and is sized, such that it can securing attach through a hole in the pegboard without damaging the hole despite the thread being wider than the hole.