Temporary Fastener Rotary Tool for Automated Cleco Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current processes for applying and removing temporary fasteners, such as Cleco fasteners, in manufacturing are manual and time-consuming, leading to inefficiencies and increased expenses.
Innovation Solution
An automated temporary fastener actuation system comprising a rotary tool and a temporary fastener actuation tool that uses a motor shaft and bearings to rotate the stem of the fastener, causing the tines to expand or contract for securement and release, eliminating the need for manual operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual processes are used to apply and remove temporary fasteners, then personnel can perform the operations with simple tools, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated rotary tool system that uses a motor shaft and bearings to rotate the fastener stem, causing tines to expand or contract automatically. This mechanical substitution eliminates manual labor and significantly increases operation speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated system allows the fastener actuation tool to perform operations independently without manual intervention. The motor-driven mechanism automatically rotates the stem and controls tine expansion/contraction, enabling the system to serve itself in performing fastener application and removal.
2Productivity
If automated actuation is implemented, then productivity increases and time is reduced, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The rotary tool with motor shaft and bearing assembly serves multiple functions: it rotates the stem in both directions, controls tine expansion and contraction, and can potentially handle different fastener types. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized tools for each operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where the motor shaft and bearings are integrated within the actuation tool housing. The first bearing supports the motor shaft while the second bearing supports the fastener stem, creating a compact nested arrangement that reduces overall device complexity despite multiple moving parts.
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 automates the actuation of temporary fasteners, significantly reducing time and expenses by enabling quick and efficient application and removal of Cleco fasteners, thereby streamlining manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
The temporary fastener actuation tool includes a plurality of spring clips, wherein each spring clip includes an end that is aligned with an end of the protrusion. The spring clips are configured to hold the indentation of the temporary fastener secure against the protrusion.
Implementation Method 2
a first bearing coupled to the bearing shaft and configured to contact the cylindrical body of the temporary fastener and hold the cylindrical body of the temporary fastener stationary
Implementation Method 3
The rotary tool is configured to couple to the motor shaft of the fastener removal tool; rotate the motor shaft and the second bearing in the first direction while the first bearing is stationary, thereby causing the plurality of tines to expand; and rotate the motor shaft and the second bearing in the second direction while the first bearing is stationary, thereby causing the plurality of tines to contract.
Data Source
AI summary
A temporary fastener actuation tool includes a protrusion, multiple spring clips, and a bearing shaft. The protrusion includes a groove that matches a shape of an indentation of a temporary fastener. Each spring clip includes an end that is aligned with an end of the protrusion. The spring clips are configured to hold the indentation of the temporary fastener secure against the protrusion. The temporary fastener actuation tool further includes a first bearing that is coupled to the bearing shaft and is configured to contact a cylindrical body of the temporary fastener and hold the cylindrical body stationary. The temporary fastener actuation tool further includes a second bearing coupled to the bearing shaft that is configured to contact a stem of the temporary fastener and to rotate the stem. The temporary fastener actuation tool further includes a motor shaft coupled to the bearing shaft.