Socket With Elastic Holding Claws For Bolted Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bolted assembly tools require manual handling, leading to risks of dropping components and increased execution time, and existing holding devices are position-dependent or require complex mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A socket with elastic holding claws and a sliding ring mechanism that allows one-handed operation, enabling spontaneous locking and unlocking based on pressure, to securely hold bolted assembly elements without requiring precise positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual handling of bolted assembly elements is used, then operator agility and dexterity are required, but the risk of dropping components increases and execution time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual handling capabilityVSAvoidcomponent retention reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The socket automatically holds the bolted assembly element through elastic claws that engage with the element's geometry, eliminating the need for operator dexterity to maintain retention. The self-retaining mechanism reduces dropping risk and execution time while preserving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If conventional holding devices like magnets are used, then component retention is achieved, but positioning dependency and material sensitivity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent retention reliabilityVSAvoidpositioning independence
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces magnetic fields with a mechanical elastic claw system that physically engages bolted assembly elements. This mechanical retention mechanism is independent of operator positioning and material properties, providing reliable holding without the limitations of magnetic fields.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If complex locking mechanisms like locking pins are used, then secure holding is achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent retention reliabilityVSAvoidlocking mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The retention function is divided into multiple elastic claws that independently engage with the bolted assembly element. This segmentation allows simple, reliable holding without complex locking mechanisms, as each claw provides independent retention capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Reliability

If manual rotation of retaining rings is required, then locking is achieved, but operation time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic claws are pre-positioned to automatically engage with the bolted assembly element upon insertion. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for post-insertion rotation or adjustment, achieving reliable locking instantly and reducing assembly time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 efficient and time-saving assembly by allowing secure holding of bolted elements independently of operator positioning, reducing the risk of loss and simplifying the assembly process.

Implementation Method 1

said mechanical holding means comprising at least two elastic holding claws and extending longitudinally on the external surface of said tubular body

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4574336A1Socket comprising means for holding a bolted joint element
Publication Date: 2025.06.25 SNCF VOYAGEURS
  • EP4574336A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4574336A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4574336A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a socket (1) of a bolted assembly element, said socket comprising a substantially tubular body (10), said body further having at least one internal bore (12), said bore being configured to receive at least one bolted assembly element conformed thereto, said socket being characterized in that it further comprises a means for mechanically holding said assembly element in the internal bore of the body of said socket, said mechanical holding means comprising at least two elastic holding claws (30) comprising a portion, called a stop portion (31), and being movable between a first position, called the unlocking position, in which said bolted assembly element can be housed or extracted from said internal bore by spreading said claws (30), and a second position, called the locking position,wherein said stop portion of said claws extends above said bore (12) so as to block the spontaneous movement of said assembly element.,