Spacer Rivet Fastener for Thin Sheet Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening methods for thin or flat workpieces, such as sheet metal parts, face challenges in creating reliable and detachable connections without reducing the distance between components, especially when a cohesive fastening method is unsuitable or a resilient internal thread cannot be easily provided.
Innovation Solution
A fastening element with a forming section and a rivet section that can be reshaped to create positive connections between workpiece elements, maintaining or adjusting the distance between them, and providing stabilization, while being designed for easy insertion and manufacturing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If nut or bolt elements are inserted into sheet metal parts to create removable fastening, then fastening reliability is improved, but the distance between workpiece components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening element is divided into three distinct functional sections: a first contact section for engaging the first workpiece element, a forming section that bridges the gap between workpieces, and a second contact section for engaging the second workpiece element. This segmentation allows each section to independently perform its function while maintaining the overall distance between workpieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The forming section acts as an intermediary element that spans the gap between the two workpiece elements. It is formed during the fastening process to create positive-locking connections with both workpieces while physically bridging the space between them, thereby maintaining the required distance.
2Strength
If fastening elements are designed to clamp workpiece elements for reliable fixation, then fastening strength is improved, but the complexity of the fastening element increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening element merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: it combines the functions of a clamp (first contact section), a spacer (forming section), and a fastening element (second contact section with rivet section). This unified design achieves strong fixation while avoiding the complexity of multiple separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The forming section undergoes parameter changes during the fastening process, transitioning from an unformed state to a formed state that creates positive-locking connections. This allows the element to achieve high fastening strength through controlled deformation rather than complex pre-formed structures.
3Manufacturing precision
If the forming section is designed to maintain distance between workpieces, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The forming section is designed with a preliminary geometry that anticipates the forming process. Its initial dimensions and material properties are selected so that during fastening, it naturally forms to the required shape that maintains the correct distance, rather than requiring precision pre-manufacturing of the final formed geometry.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a fastening element (10) for attachment to a workpiece, comprising at least a first workpiece element with a first opening and a second workpiece element with a second opening aligned with the first opening, wherein the fastening element has a first contact section with a first contact surface for contact with a region of the first workpiece element surrounding the first opening and a second contact section with a second contact surface for contact with a region of the second workpiece element surrounding the second opening, wherein the region of the second workpiece element faces the first workpiece element and wherein the first and the second workpiece elements are spaced apart, in particular parallel, from each other at least in the regions surrounding the first and the second openings.wherein the first assembly section and the second assembly section are connected to each other by means of a formed section extending in a longitudinal direction of the fastening element, and wherein a riveted section extends from the second assembly section in a direction away from the formed section. The invention further relates to a corresponding assembly component and a method for manufacturing such an assembly component.