Stud Attachment Tool with Disposable Applicator Legs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching studs to surfaces, such as those used in thrust reversers, face challenges in ensuring secure bonding and efficient curing of adhesives, particularly on non-airflow surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A tool and method utilizing a housing portion with an actuating portion and an applicator with legs, where the actuating portion presses the fastener against the surface, bending the legs to apply adhesive and secure the stud, and an automatic stud applying machine with motors and processors for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a one-piece plastic molding fixture is used to apply positive force to the attachment, then the attachment is securely mounted to the substrate, but the fixture cannot be removed after curing without damaging the attachment or substrate
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture is divided into a reusable housing portion and a disposable applicator assembly. The applicator can be removed after curing while the housing remains, resolving the contradiction between secure mounting and fixture removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator with legs and adhesive is designed as a disposable component that is discarded after use, eliminating the need to design for complex removal mechanisms while maintaining secure attachment during the curing process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the applicator legs are made flexible to conform to curved surfaces, then the attachment can be applied to complex geometries, but the legs may deform before the adhesive cures
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator legs are pre-formed with a memory effect or pre-tensioned configuration that allows them to flex during application but automatically return to their original shape after releasing from the surface, preventing permanent deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The legs transition from a flexible state during application to a stable state after release, using material properties or structural design that provides temporary flexibility followed by rigid stabilization once the adhesive begins to cure.
3Strength
If adhesive is applied to both the stud base and the applicator legs, then stronger bonding is achieved, but excess adhesive may contaminate the surrounding area
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator legs are designed with adhesive application zones that precisely target the contact points on the substrate, ensuring adhesive is deposited only where needed for bonding rather than broadly across the surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator legs act as an intermediary that controls adhesive transfer from the stud base to the substrate, allowing precise metering and placement of adhesive while preventing excess material from spreading to surrounding areas.
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
Ensures reliable attachment and curing of studs on various surfaces, including complex geometries, by applying consistent pressure and using adhesive on both the stud and applicator legs for strong bonding.
Implementation Method 1
The tool may further comprise one or more biasing elements, wherein movement of the actuating portion towards the contact surface biases each biasing element
Implementation Method 2
threaded studs can be bonded to the surface using an epoxy adhesive
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A tool (100) for applying a fastener (200), such as a stud, is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the tool applies the fastener assembled with an applicator (300). The applicator has at least two legs (310). The tool includes a housing portion (120) configured to releasably receive the fastener and the applicator. The tool further includes an actuating portion (110) slidingly connected to the housing portion and having one or more projections (114). Movement of the actuating portion towards the contact surface (500) presses the fastener against the contact surface and bends the at least two legs of the applicator towards the contact surface.