Self-Fastening Threaded Insert for Building Slabs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for fastening slabs of building materials, such as marble or granite, require external tools to rotate a cylindrical block for insertion, resulting in cumbersome assembly and storage, and potential stress on the material.
Innovation Solution
A self-fastening threaded insert with a bearing element, deformation elements, and a supporting element that deforms under load to securely attach to the slab without external tools, allowing for easy insertion and removal without adhesives, using a recess in the slab to house the insert and prevent extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a cylindrical block with snap-type closures is used for fastening, then the threaded insert can be divided into segments for assembly, but external tools are required to rotate the body for insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded insert is designed to perform the insertion operation itself without external tools. The deforming elements automatically engage with the slab walls when the insert is inserted, creating a self-fastening mechanism that eliminates the need for external rotation tools or additional fastening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded insert comprises multiple deforming elements that can be arranged in series or parallel, allowing the structure to be segmented while maintaining the self-fastening capability. This segmentation enables manufacturing flexibility while preserving the tool-free insertion advantage.
2Reliability
If external tools are used for assembly, then the threaded insert can be securely fastened, but the assembly process becomes cumbersome and requires additional equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded insert automatically fastens itself to the slab through the deformation of its elements, eliminating the need for external tools or complex assembly processes. The insert's own structure provides the fastening mechanism, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using external tools to force the insert into the slab, the insert is designed to deform and engage with the slab walls through its own structural characteristics. The fastening action is inverted from an external forcing mechanism to an internal self-engaging mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If the threaded insert projects from the slab surface, then it provides a bearing surface for mounting, but it creates external encumbrances that complicate handling and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded insert is designed to be nested within a recess excavated in the slab surface. The insert fits into the recess and does not project from the external face, allowing the slab to be handled and stored without external encumbrances while still providing a mounting surface within the recess.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting surface is moved from the external face of the slab to an internal surface within the recess. This dimensional relocation eliminates the external projection while maintaining the functional bearing surface for mounting operations.
4Ease of operation
If deformation elements are used to fasten the insert, then external tools are not needed, but the elements must be deformed to transmit forces perpendicular to the load
Solution Approach 1:
The deforming elements change their physical state from undeformed to deformed, altering their geometric parameters to create the fastening action. This parameter change enables the elements to transmit forces perpendicular to the load direction, achieving tool-free assembly while maintaining sufficient strength through the deformation-induced mechanical engagement.
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 quick and stress-free assembly and disassembly of slabs, enabling easy handling and storage, with the deformation elements transmitting forces perpendicular to the load to ensure secure fastening without external encumbrances.
Implementation Method 1
at least one deformation element (20) adapted to interact with the slab, wherein such at least one deformation element (20) is deformed due to the effect of an external load transmitted by the supporting element (30)
Implementation Method 2
such at least one deformation element (20) is deformed due to the effect of an external load transmitted by the supporting element (30). In this way, such at least one deformation element (20) can transmit to the slab forces which are perpendicular to an application force of the external load
Data Source
AI summary
A self-fastening threaded insert is described, with respect to a slab of building material, comprising a bearing element with respect to the slab, a deformation element adapted to interact with the slab, and a supporting element cooperating with the bearing element. The deformation element is deformed due to the effect of an external load transmitted by the supporting element, and is 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 to the slab. A process for assembling such threaded insert is also described.