Snap-Tooth Fastening Assembly for Vibration-Proof Component Securing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening systems for securing components in vehicles, such as aircraft, are not quick or safe enough, and do not facilitate efficient assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A fastening system comprising a first securing element with an engagement end and a second securing element featuring elastic clamp members with internal toothing, which snap into external toothing when pushed together, and a fixing element that secures the clamp members in place, allowing for rapid and secure attachment of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional bolts, pins or similar securing elements are used, then the fastening system provides reliable securing, but the assembly process is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into three distinct components: a first securing element (bolt-like), a second securing element (nut-like with elastic clamp members), and a fixing element. This segmentation allows each component to have a specific function, enabling quick assembly while maintaining reliability. The modular design reduces overall system complexity by assigning dedicated roles to each element.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic clamp members are pre-configured in the second securing element to automatically engage with the first securing element when assembled. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for complex fastening procedures during assembly, as the elastic elements automatically snap into place, significantly reducing assembly time and effort.
2Productivity
If quickly detachable fastening systems are used, then assembly is accelerated, but the securing reliability and safety are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic clamp members provide dynamic adaptation during assembly, automatically adjusting to engage with the first securing element. This dynamic mechanism ensures reliable securing through elastic force while maintaining quick assembly capability. The elasticity allows for automatic engagement without complex procedures, balancing speed and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing element changes the radial position parameter of the clamp members from a first radial position to a second radial position, transforming the fastening state from insecure to securely locked. This parameter change mechanism ensures that once assembled, the connection achieves high reliability and resistance to vibration, while the assembly process remains quick and simple.
3Ease of operation
If multiple securing elements are used for quick detachment, then assembly is facilitated, but the system weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic clamp members function as flexible elements that provide securing force without requiring heavy materials. The elasticity of these thin-walled components allows them to perform the securing function with minimal weight, replacing heavier traditional fastening components while maintaining ease of assembly and operation.
4Reliability
If elastic clamp members with variable radial position are used, then secure fixation is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic clamp members are self-servicing elements that automatically adjust their radial position during assembly. When the second securing element is assembled onto the first securing element, the elastic clamps self-adjust to engage with the toothing features, achieving reliable fixation without requiring external adjustment mechanisms or complex control systems.
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 enables quick, safe, and vibration-proof securing of components with low assembly effort and weight, ensuring reliable fixation without destructive loosening.
Implementation Method 1
a second securing element having a plurality of elastic clamp members, which are uniformly arranged about a common axis and have a first internal toothing on inner sides facing the common axis, a fixing element with a recess, wherein the clamp members can at least in a region assume a radial position relative to the common axis which is variable due to their elasticity
Data Source
AI summary
A fastening system for securing a component includes a first securing element having an engagement end and external toothing, a second securing element having elastic clamp members arranged about a common axis and having internal toothing facing the axis, and a fixing member. The clamps members assume a radial position relative to the axis that is variable due to their elasticity. The clamps are designed such that the second securing element can be pushed onto the engagement end such that the teeth of the engagement end and the clamps snap into each other. The clamps move from a first radial position to an external second radial position to engage or disengage a snapped-in state when shifting the external toothing and the first internal toothing to each other.