Rivet Bolt Deformation Using Vertical Punch

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Solution Overview

Problem

Orbital riveters are large and expensive, making it difficult to use multiple units side by side to deform rivet bolt heads spaced close together, and existing rivet deformation methods are time-consuming and costly.

Innovation Solution

A rivet bolt system with a flange, upper cylindrical portion, and threaded shaft, where the upper cylindrical portion is deformable by a vertical punch into an inverted frusto-conical surface, allowing for efficient deformation and space-saving installation, using a punch instead of an orbital riveter, and suitable for various materials like metal, wood, and plastic.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If orbital riveters are used to deform rivet bolt heads, then the rivet bolts can be securely joined to substrates, but the equipment occupies considerable space and cannot be easily used side by side for closely spaced rivet bolts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverivet bolt joining capabilityVSAvoidequipment space occupation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the deformation process into two independent stages: first inserting the rivet bolt through the substrate, then separately deforming the head. This allows the use of compact, simple tools rather than large complex orbital riveters, enabling multiple tools to work side by side on closely spaced bolts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of deforming the rivet bolt head in place using a large orbital riveter, the invention inverts the approach by first inserting the complete rivet bolt and then deforming the head afterward using a compact tool. This reversal enables the use of small, maneuverable deformation tools that can access closely spaced locations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Reliability

If orbital riveters are used to deform rivet bolt heads, then the joining function is achieved, but the equipment is large and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverivet bolt joining capabilityVSAvoidequipment cost and complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention separates the rivet bolt into distinct functional components: an insertion portion for penetrating the substrate and a head portion for deformation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, enabling the use of simple, inexpensive tools for each stage rather than expensive complex orbital riveters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rivet bolt head is designed to be self-deformable under the action of a simple punch or press tool. The head geometry includes features that facilitate easy deformation without requiring complex orbital motion mechanisms, thereby eliminating the need for expensive specialized equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If traditional orbital riveting methods are used, then rivet bolts can be deformed securely, but the process is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverivet bolt deformation qualityVSAvoiddeformation speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention inverts the traditional sequence by inserting the rivet bolt first in its undeformed state, allowing for quick insertion without complex deformation mechanics. The deformation step follows afterward using a simple, fast-acting punch or press tool, thereby increasing overall process speed while maintaining deformation quality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The rivet bolt head geometry is specifically designed with parameters optimized for rapid deformation by simple punch tools. The head includes features such as rounded surfaces and controlled thickness that enable fast plastic deformation under localized impact or pressure, significantly reducing the time required compared to orbital riveting processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 system enables rapid deformation of rivet bolts in a fraction of the time and cost of traditional methods, allowing for simultaneous deformation of multiple rivet bolts in close proximity, reducing equipment costs and space requirements.

Implementation Method 1

The upper cylindrical portion of the rivet bolt is sized such that the inverted frusto-conical surface thereof is deformable by a vertical punch such that the deformation results in substantial occupation of the space allotted by the inverted frusto-conical surface of the attachment

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPlastic deformation: Plasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9261126B2Rivet bolt in combination with an attachment and process for making same
Publication Date: 2016.02.16 STAFAST PRODUCTS INC
  • US9261126B2 patent drawing
  • US9261126B2 patent drawing
  • US9261126B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A rivet bolt in combination with an attachment wherein the rivet bolt includes: a flange having a top surface and a bottom surface, and, a shaft having a threaded portion. An upper cylindrical portion of the rivet bolt includes an upper edge and an interior base surface having a drive head socket. The attachment receives the rivet bolt and comprises: a top surface, a bottom surface, a cylindrical bore therethrough, and an inverted frusto-conical surface extending from the top surface to the cylindrical bore. The upper cylindrical portion of the rivet bolt is deformed and rotatably and slidingly engages the inverted frusto-conical surface extending from the top surface of the attachment to the cylindrical bore therethrough. The upper cylindrical portion of the rivet bolt resides partially within the cylindrical bore. A process for making a rivet bolt in combination with an attachment is disclosed.