Self-Locking Thread Connector With Non-Circular Locking Section
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thread locking mechanisms in connectors, such as those using ratchet-like pawls and teeth, provide limited locking in one direction and can become loose due to heat cycling and product use, leading to insecure connections.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking thread system with a first threaded member featuring a non-circular locking thread section, such as oval or elliptical, that expands and tapers to create a continuous locking mechanism, ensuring secure attachment by deforming the second threaded member to match the non-circular shape, providing uniform circumference and increased thread-to-thread friction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a ratchet-like locking mechanism with pawl and teeth is used, then locking in one direction is achieved, but the connection becomes loose after heat cycling and use
Solution Approach 1:
The thread profile employs asymmetric geometry with different radii of curvature on the load-receiving surface versus the discharge surface. The load-receiving surface has a larger radius of curvature to distribute stress, while the discharge surface has a smaller radius to concentrate locking force, preventing loosening during heat cycling and vibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The thread design incorporates variable pitch and diameter along its length, with the pitch and diameter changing continuously from the leading end to the trailing end. This parameter variation creates progressive engagement that maintains constant friction and prevents the connection from becoming loose under thermal and mechanical stress.
2Reliability
If a non-circular locking thread section is used, then continuous locking at any position is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking thread section utilizes a non-circular asymmetric profile with varying radii of curvature that enables continuous locking at any rotational position. The asymmetric geometry creates interference fit characteristics that prevent loosening while maintaining manufacturability through standard forming processes.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the thread have different geometric properties - the locking thread section has non-circular cross-section with specific radius variations, while the lead thread section has circular cross-section. This local differentiation provides continuous locking where needed while simplifying manufacturing in other areas.
3Reliability
If the pitch diameter expands and tapers in the locking thread section, then uniform friction and secure attachment are achieved, but torque requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pitch diameter is designed to vary continuously along the thread length, expanding outwardly in one plane and tapering inwardly in a perpendicular plane. This parameter modulation creates uniform friction distribution that secures attachment while controlling torque requirements through optimized geometric progression.
Solution Approach 2:
The thread profile incorporates curved surfaces with specific radii of curvature, where the load-receiving surface has a larger radius and the discharge surface has a smaller radius. This curvature design distributes contact forces to achieve uniform friction while reducing peak torque requirements compared to flat-thread designs.
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 system ensures secure attachment at any position along the thread, preventing rotation and loosening, maintaining connection integrity despite thermal stress and use, with controlled deformation and torque requirements.
Implementation Method 1
the second threaded member is formed of a deformable polymer... deforming the second threaded member to match the non-circular shape
Implementation Method 2
providing uniform circumference and increased thread-to-thread friction
Data Source
AI summary
A self-locking thread system includes a first threaded member and a second threaded member. The first threaded member includes a first thread. The second threaded member includes a second thread configured to be threaded with the first thread. The first thread has a first thread axis. The first thread includes a locking thread section that is non-circular in a transverse cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the first thread axis.