Blind Rivet Nut Presenter With Sensor-Based Thread Misalignment Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blind fastener setting tools are cumbersome, require multiple steps, and cannot easily detect misalignment between the blind rivet nut's internal thread and the screwing tool's external thread, potentially leading to damage.
Innovation Solution
A part presenter with a housing and receptacle that includes an end stop and sensor element, allowing for quick detection of misalignment by moving the end stop against a resilient element to interact with the sensor, preventing damage to the setting tool.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a blind fastener setting device is used to automatically set blind fasteners, then the setting process is automated, but the device cannot detect misalignment between the blind rivet nut's internal thread and the screwing tool's external thread, potentially leading to tool damage
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor element performs preliminary detection of thread misalignment before the screwing tool engages with the blind rivet nut. The end stop is positioned to contact the sensor element in advance, allowing the system to detect potential misalignment issues before they can cause tool damage during the setting operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor element provides feedback about the position and alignment of the blind rivet nut relative to the screwing tool. When the end stop contacts the sensor element, it generates a signal that indicates proper alignment, enabling the automated system to verify correct positioning before proceeding with the setting operation.
2Productivity
If existing setting tools are used, then they can perform the setting operation, but they are cumbersome and require multiple steps, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The part presenter integrates multiple functions into a single device: it holds the blind rivet nut, provides the end stop for positioning, incorporates the sensor element for alignment detection, and interfaces with the screwing tool. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate positioning and detection devices, reducing the number of steps required.
Solution Approach 2:
The part presenter serves multiple purposes: it acts as a holder for the blind rivet nut, a positioning mechanism through the end stop, a detection system via the sensor element, and an interface for the screwing tool. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate tools and operations.
3Reliability
If misalignment detection is added to prevent tool damage, then reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection function is extracted as a separate sensor element that can be integrated into the part presenter without complicating the main setting mechanism. The sensor element operates independently, providing detection capability while keeping the overall device structure relatively simple and maintainable.
Solution Approach 2:
The end stop serves as an intermediary mechanical element that translates the position and alignment of the blind rivet nut into contact with the sensor element. This intermediary mechanism provides a simple, reliable way to convey alignment information to the detection system without requiring complex sensors or actuators.
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 and reliable detection of thread irregularities, independent of the rivet nut's shape, preventing tool damage and simplifying the setting process.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient element (16) between the end stop (7) and the housing (2), so that the end stop (7) can be moved from its first position to its second position against a spring force
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A part presenter (1) is designed for presenting a blind rivet nut (4) to a setting tool, with a housing (2) and a receptacle (3) formed by the housing (2). Into the housing (2) at least one blind rivet nut (4) can be inserted. The blind rivet nut (4) in the housing (2) is accessible for a screwing tool (21) of the setting tool through an opening (5). An end stop (7) is arranged in the receptacle (3) opposite the opening (5), which end stop (7) forms a stop for the blind rivet nut (4) and can be moved axially along a longitudinal axis of the receptacle (3) from a first position into a second position. In its second position, the end stop (7) comes into operative contact with a sensor element (15), wherein the sensor element (15) is connectable to a control unit of the setting tool in a data-exchanging manner.