Self-Fastening Threaded Insert for Tool-Free Slab Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing self-fastening threaded inserts require external tools for assembly and are not suitable for applications needing one or two deformation elements, and they leave external encumbrances after assembly, complicating handling and storage.

Innovation Solution

A self-fastening threaded insert with a bearing element and deformation elements that can be installed without tools, using standard holes, and disappears inside the slab, utilizing elastic deformation elements and a supporting element to secure it without external encumbrances.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If external tools are used for assembly, then the threaded insert can be securely fastened to the slab, but the assembly process becomes complex and requires additional equipment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefastening securityVSAvoidassembly process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The threaded insert is designed with deformation elements that automatically engage with the slab walls upon insertion, eliminating the need for external fastening tools. The insert self-secures by deforming the surrounding material, providing reliable fastening through its own structural features rather than requiring separate assembly operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The invention removes the separating device and external fastening tools from the assembly process. By integrating the fastening function directly into the insert structure through deformation elements, the solution extracts unnecessary external components and simplifies the overall assembly system while maintaining secure fastening.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If traditional threaded inserts are used, then fastening is achieved, but external encumbrances remain after assembly complicating handling and storage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefastening functionVSAvoidhandling and storage convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The threaded insert is designed to be nested within the slab hole, with the bearing element and deformation elements fitting inside the prepared cavity. This nesting approach allows the fastening function to be embedded within the slab structure itself, eliminating external projections and encumbrances that would interfere with handling and storage while maintaining secure fastening capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Reliability

If multiple deformation elements are required, then secure fastening is achieved, but the insert becomes unsuitable for applications with limited space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefastening securityVSAvoidapplication range
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening function is segmented into multiple independent deformation elements that can be selectively activated. The insert can operate effectively with one, two, or three deformation elements depending on the specific application requirements and available space, providing adaptability across different scenarios while maintaining reliable fastening through the segmented deformation mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Facilitates tool-free assembly and secure fastening within the slab, ensuring easy handling and storage by eliminating external projections and providing stress-free installation.

Implementation Method 1

at least one deformation element (20) adapted to interact with the slab

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20260022729A1Self-fastening threaded insert and process for assembling such threaded insert
Publication Date: 2026.01.22 SPECIALINSERT SRL
  • US20260022729A1 patent drawing
  • US20260022729A1 patent drawing
  • US20260022729A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A self-fastening threaded insert (1) is described, with respect to a slab of building material, comprising a bearing element (10) with respect to the slab, a deformation element (20) adapted to interact with the slab, a supporting element (30) cooperating with the bearing element (10), wherein the deformation element (20) is deformed due to the effect of an external load transmitted by the supporting element (30), the deformation element (20) being adapted to transmit to the slab forces which are perpendicular to an application force of the external load to be able to fasten the threaded insert (1) to the slab. A process for assembling such threaded insert (1) is also described.