Channel Strut Fastener Block for Mixed SAE and Metric Sizes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastener systems for channel strut framing are limited in accommodating both standard SAE and metric hardware, as they are typically specialized for specific nut or bolt sizes, making it difficult to use differently sized fasteners without requiring multiple specialized fasteners.
Innovation Solution
A fastener block with multiple receptacles of varying sizes on its upper and lower surfaces, allowing engagement with standard and metric nuts and bolts, and a threaded aperture to accommodate different thread sizes, along with features like rounded corners for rotation and recessed slots for easy handling, ensures secure positioning within the strut channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If specialized fasteners are used for specific nut or bolt sizes, then secure attachment is achieved, but compatibility with different fastener sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener block is designed with multiple receptacles of different sizes and configurations on its upper and lower surfaces, allowing a single fastener block to accommodate various nut and bolt sizes (e.g., 1/4-20, 3/8-16, M6, M8). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized fasteners while maintaining secure attachment capabilities for each fastener type.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener block is segmented into multiple receptacles, each optimized for specific fastener sizes and types. The receptacles are positioned at different locations and orientations on the block, allowing selective engagement with different fasteners. This segmentation enables the single fastener block to serve multiple specialized functions simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If standard SAE and metric hardware are accommodated, then versatility is improved, but fastener block design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener block incorporates receptacles designed for both SAE (inch-based) and metric (millimeter-based) fastener standards. The receptacles vary in dimensions, thread patterns, and geometries to accommodate different fastener types, allowing a single block to replace multiple specialized fasteners while supporting both measurement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the fastener block have different receptacle configurations optimized for specific fastener types. Each receptacle location is tailored with appropriate dimensions, thread pitches, and engagement features suitable for the intended fastener size and standard (SAE or metric), allowing localized optimization within a single universal component.
3Ease of operation
If rounded corners are added for rotation, then ease of installation is improved, but structural strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener block features rounded corners at its four corners, which enable the block to be easily rotated within the channel strut during installation. The curved geometry allows the block to turn smoothly between the flanges of the strut without catching on sharp edges, facilitating proper orientation of the receptacles for fastener engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener block is made from materials that provide both the necessary structural strength and the desired rounded corner geometry. The material selection and design ensure that the rounded corners maintain sufficient structural integrity while enabling rotation, balancing ease of installation with mechanical strength requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein is a fastener that may be used to secure objects to a channel strut or attach a channel strut to a structure. In an arrangement, the fastener is a fastener block configured for disposition within the interior of a channel strut. The fastener block has a body that includes at least one aperture, which may be threaded, extending through the fastener block between upper and lower surfaces. A fastener receptacle may be formed around the aperture. A standard nut or bolt may be inserted into the fastener receptacle.