Segmented Screw Bit Geometry for Damaged Fastener Grip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fasteners often slip during tightening or loosening due to worn components, corrosion, or damage, leading to inefficiencies and the need for additional tools like bolt extractors.
Innovation Solution
A multi-grip screw bit design with segmented portions that engage the fastener head, allowing for efficient torque transfer and preventing slippage, compatible with various torque tools, and capable of both clockwise and counterclockwise rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional driver bits are used, then the tool can apply torque to fasteners, but the tool slips on worn, corroded, or damaged fastener heads
Solution Approach 1:
The driver bit tip is divided into multiple segmented portions that can independently engage with different surfaces of the fastener head. These segments bite into the fastener head material, creating multiple contact points that prevent slippage even when the fastener is worn, corroded, or damaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement surfaces of the segmented portions are designed with specific local properties (sharp edges, biting surfaces) that concentrate force at precise contact points on the fastener head. This localized engagement creates high friction and mechanical interlocking, preventing the tool from slipping off the fastener.
2Adaptability or versatility
If bolt extractors are used to remove damaged fasteners, then extraction can be achieved, but additional tools and drilling are required
Solution Approach 1:
The driver bit is designed to perform multiple functions: it can tighten intact fasteners, loosen damaged fasteners, and extract broken fasteners. The segmented portions adapt their engagement mode based on the fastener condition, eliminating the need for separate bolt extractor tools and drilling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented portions automatically adapt their engagement strategy based on the fastener head condition. When encountering damaged or corroded fasteners, the segments naturally bite deeper and redistribute force to maintain grip, providing self-adjusting extraction capability without requiring tool changes or preliminary drilling.
3Productivity
If standard driver bits are used on damaged fasteners, then the fastener may be removed, but the fastener head or tool may be further damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented portions create preliminary mechanical interlocking with the fastener head before full torque is applied. This initial engagement distributes stress across multiple contact points and prevents the tool from rounding or further damaging the fastener head during the torque application process.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented portions are designed to dynamically adjust their engagement depth and orientation based on the fastener head condition. When resistance is detected or slippage begins, the segments automatically bite deeper or reposition, maintaining optimal grip and preventing damage while allowing continuous torque application.
Data Source
AI summary
A screw bit body allows for efficient torque force application onto a socket fastener. The screw bit body includes a plurality of laterally-bracing sidewalls, a first base, and a second base. The laterally-bracing sidewalls are radially distributed about a rotation axis of the screw bit body with each further including a first lateral edge, a second lateral edge, a first bracing surface, a second bracing surface, and an engagement cavity. The engagement cavity creates an additional gripping point to prevent slippage in between the screw bit body and the socket fastener. The engagement cavity traverses normal and into the screw bit body from the first base to the second base. The engagement cavity comprises a protrusion arranged between a first cavity section and a second cavity section.