Rigid Fastener Locking Member for Vibration-Resistant Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fastener locking mechanisms, such as split pins and safety wire, are inadequate for locking fasteners to a structure, especially in large, heavily loaded, or hard-to-access applications, as they require complex installation and are impractical for certain configurations.
Innovation Solution
A locking apparatus with a rigid locking member that has a first end configured to engage with the fastener and a second end configured to engage with the structure, preventing relative rotation, allowing for quick and simple installation and suitable for various fastener arrangements, including those with high vibration exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If split pins are used to lock fastener components, then two relatively rotatable parts of a fastener can be locked together, but a hole must be created through the fastener components after installation which is difficult or impossible for many fastener arrangements
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed with pre-formed engagement features that can be installed without requiring post-installation hole creation. The locking member engages with the fastener component and structure in a single installation step, eliminating the need for subsequent hole drilling or modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is divided into distinct functional segments: a first end for engaging the fastener component, a second end for engaging the structure, and intermediate portions that provide the locking function. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying overall installation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If safety wire is used to lock fasteners, then it can be used in more situations compared to split pins, but it is impractical for very large, highly loaded fasteners and requires considerable skill for correct installation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to be self-installing without requiring specialized skills or tools. The engagement features are configured to automatically align and lock into place, eliminating the need for skilled manual manipulation required by safety wire installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member serves as an intermediary component between the fastener and the structure, providing a standardized interface that works across different fastener sizes and configurations. This intermediary design maintains versatility while simplifying installation compared to direct safety wire manipulation.
3Reliability
If conventional locking mechanisms are used, then fasteners can be locked, but the installation is complex and difficult to perform where access to the fastener is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member utilizes spatial arrangement in multiple dimensions to achieve locking. The first end engages the fastener component while the second end engages the structure, with the intermediate portions extending in directions that accommodate restricted access scenarios. This dimensional approach allows installation from various angles without requiring complex manipulation in confined spaces.
Data Source
Figure 1~2(iii)
Figure 3a~3b(ii)
Figure 4a
AI summary
There is provided a locking apparatus for locking the rotational position of a fastener component which is rotatable about an axis relative to a structure; the locking apparatus comprising: a rigid locking member (43) having a first end configured to engage with the fastener component such that rotation of the fastener component relative to the first end is substantially prevented, and a second end configured to engage with the structure such that rotation of the locking member relative to the structure is substantially prevented; and a secondary locking member (46) for locking the rotational position of a further fastener component which is rotatable about the axis relative to the fastener component, the secondary locking member comprising: a first part configured to engage with the locking member such that rotation of the secondary locking member relative to the locking member is substantially prevented; and a second part configured to engage with the further fastener component such that rotation of the further fastener component relative to the secondary locking member is substantially prevented.