Polymer Speed Fastener With Tapered Bore for Rapid Bolt Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nut and bolt systems face challenges in high-speed assembly and disassembly, especially in confined spaces, due to difficulty in starting the threading process and the time-consuming nature of rotating the nut and bolt, which is exacerbated by the need to use tools like electric drills.
Innovation Solution
A polymer-based speed retainer with a tapered bore and a planar slot allows for rapid assembly and disassembly by using a bolt with a hammer, providing a strong connection without the need for threading, and enabling the use of various bolt diameters and thread pitches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a traditional nut and bolt system is used, then a strong connection is achieved, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the traditional threading process into two distinct phases: a tapered non-threaded section for rapid insertion, and a parallel threaded section for secure locking. This segmentation allows the bolt to be quickly inserted without threading, then rapidly locked in place with minimal rotation, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The bolt is designed with a tapered section at the leading end that performs the preliminary action of entering the nut's corresponding tapered bore without threading. This preliminary insertion phase is much faster than traditional threading, after which the parallel threaded section engages to complete the connection, thereby reducing overall assembly time
2Extent of automation
If an electric drill is used to rotate the bolt, then the bolting process is automated, but the operator must insert a socket and spend time running the drill
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial automation by using an electric drill only for the final locking phase when the parallel threaded section engages the nut. The drill is not needed for the entire bolting process, only for the brief rotation required to engage the threads after the tapered section has already inserted the bolt, thereby reducing overall operation time and complexity
3Productivity
If the bolt is rotated quickly for high-speed assembly, then productivity increases, but the connection strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection establishment into a rapid insertion phase using the tapered section and a quick locking phase using the parallel threaded section. This allows the majority of the assembly process to be completed at high speed with minimal rotation, while still achieving full connection strength through the threaded engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered section performs the preliminary action of rapid insertion without requiring rotation, positioning the bolt quickly within the nut. This preliminary high-speed phase is followed by a brief rotation to engage the parallel threaded section, which provides the full connection strength, thereby achieving both high productivity and strong connection
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
Enables rapid installation and removal of objects with extreme speed, reducing assembly time and allowing for secure connections without damaging the system, while accommodating a wide range of bolt sizes and thread configurations, and providing resistance to corrosion in wet environments.
Implementation Method 1
forces opposing sides of the bore to move apart under elastic deformation of the polymer substance
Data Source
AI summary
A locking system comprising a block made of a polymer substance having an upper surface and a lower surface. In a normal condition, the block has the following structure. A bore, having a first axis, extends through the block and passes through the upper surface and the lower surface, the bore being shaped to include a taper, whereby an upper end of the bore has a larger diameter than a lower end of the bore, and the bore has an internal surface that is smooth. And, a slot, having a second axis, extends through the block and passes through the upper surface and the lower surface, the slot having a generally planar configuration with a width and a thickness, the slot being positioned such that the first axis and the second axis are co-axial, whereby the slot and the bore form a single continuous opening extending through the block.