Segmented Lock Nut Assembly for Vibration Resistance and Thread Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock nut assemblies face challenges in securely attaching to threaded shafts, particularly under vibration and in applications where access to the nut head is limited, and they often fail to protect the threads from corrosion and mechanical damage, making removal difficult and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A lock nut assembly comprising a first component with a threaded axial hole and a second component with an axial hole, detachably coupled with an elastic or elastomeric material that allows axial movement and expansion to align and lock onto the threaded member, providing protection and easy removal by unscrewing the second component separately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional lock nut assembly is used, then the nut can be securely attached to the threaded shaft, but the threads are exposed to corrosion and mechanical damage making removal difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The lock nut assembly is divided into two separate components: a first nut that engages the threaded shaft and a second nut that locks the first nut in place. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while protecting the threads through the combined assembly structure
Solution Approach 2:
The first nut is positioned inside the second nut, creating a nested configuration where the inner nut engages the threads and the outer nut provides protection and locking. This nested structure shields the threaded shaft from corrosion and mechanical damage while maintaining secure attachment
2Ease of operation
If access to the nut head is limited, then installation is constrained, but traditional lock nuts require access to the head for tightening
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic or elastomeric material between the nuts provides dynamic compliance, allowing the assembly to be installed in limited spaces while automatically adjusting to achieve proper locking without requiring precise manual adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic material automatically adjusts the positioning and locking of the nuts as they are screwed onto the threaded shaft, eliminating the need for complex adjustment mechanisms or multiple operation steps
3Reliability
If vibration resistance is improved, then the lock nut remains secure, but the assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic or elastomeric material changes its physical parameters (compliance, damping characteristics) to provide vibration resistance. This material-based approach achieves locking reliability without adding mechanical complexity to the assembly structure
Solution Approach 2:
The combination of rigid nut components with elastic or elastomeric material creates a composite assembly that leverages the strengths of both materials: the rigid nuts provide structural integrity while the elastic material provides vibration damping and automatic locking
4Productivity
If removal time is reduced, then maintenance efficiency improves, but the locking mechanism must be simpler
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented two-nut design allows the second nut to be removed independently from the first nut, enabling quick removal without requiring undoing of the entire assembly while the segmented structure maintains reliable locking during service
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic material is pre-positioned between the nuts to automatically engage and lock them together during installation, so that during removal only the outer nut needs to be unscrewed without any additional unlocking steps
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 assembly securely attaches to threaded members, resists loosening under vibration, protects threads from corrosion and damage, and facilitates easy removal without damaging the bolt, reducing maintenance time and improving safety in applications like wear plate replacement.
Implementation Method 1
detachably coupled with an elastic or elastomeric material that allows axial movement and expansion to align and lock onto the threaded member
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A lock nut assembly (10, 10') has a first component (12) provided with a threaded axial through hole (19); and a second component (14) provided with an axial (hole 31). The first and second components (12, 14) are detachably coupled together and arranged so that both components are simultaneously engagable with a common tool to effect application of the assembly (10, 10') onto a threaded member (22) by operation of the tool to impart torque to the assembly (10, 10') in a first direction. The first component (12) initially engages the threaded (member 22) with the second component (14) following. The first component (12) provides fastening to the threaded member (22) and is torqued as required. The second component (14) acts to lock the first component (12) onto the threaded member (22).