Thermoplastic Sleeve Anchoring for Strong, Damage-Free Inserts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for anchoring connector elements in objects often compromise between strength of engagement and risk of material damage, as they either weaken the object or cause delamination or fissures.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a thermoplastic sleeve that is inserted into a mounting hole along with a connector element, where mechanical energy is used to liquefy the thermoplastic material, allowing it to enclose and securely anchor the connector element without applying pressure or friction directly to the object, ensuring a strong and damage-free engagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a threaded insert is expanded into engagement with the object, then the strength of engagement is improved, but the risk of causing damage to the material of the object increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestrength of engagementVSAvoidmaterial damage

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A thermoplastic sleeve is introduced as an intermediary between the connector element and the receiving object. The sleeve encloses the connector element and is liquefied to allow insertion and anchoring without direct contact between the connector and the object material, thereby preventing delamination or fissures while maintaining strong engagement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The thermoplastic sleeve undergoes a phase change from solid to liquid state through energy transfer (heating). In the liquid state, the sleeve can be inserted into the mounting hole and enclose the connector element without exerting damaging pressure on the receiving object. After anchoring, the sleeve solidifies to provide strong engagement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If pressure is applied to anchor the connector element, then the strength of engagement is improved, but the risk of causing delamination or fissures in the object material increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestrength of engagementVSAvoiddelamination or fissures

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The thermoplastic sleeve serves as a mediator that absorbs and distributes anchoring forces. When the sleeve is liquefied and inserted, it can be pressed into the mounting hole without the force being directly transmitted to the receiving object, thus avoiding delamination or fissures while still achieving strong engagement through friction and mechanical interlocking.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The thermoplastic sleeve transitions from a solid state (during storage and insertion preparation) to a liquid state (during anchoring when energy is transferred). In the liquid state, the sleeve becomes more compliant and can be inserted without exerting damaging pressure. After anchoring, it solidifies to provide the necessary engagement strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #36Phase transitions

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

This method provides a strong and reproducible anchoring process that minimizes the risk of material damage, allowing for accurate positioning and deep anchoring of the connector element, while maintaining the integrity of the object's material.

Implementation Method 1

transferring energy to liquefy at least a portion of the thermoplastic material of the sleeve

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLiquefaction of thermoplastic material: Melting

Implementation Method 2

Mechanical vibration may generate friction heat where the sleeve interfaces the connector element and/or the receiving object

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction heat generation: Friction

Implementation Method 3

The mechanical vibration may be induced by a source of ultrasonic vibration in contact with e.g. the sleeve

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectUltrasonic vibration: Ultrasonic Vibration

Data Source

PatentUS11548233B2Method of anchoring a connector element, a machine for carrying out the method and a connector element anchoring kit

Publication Date: 2023.01.10 IKEA SUPPLY AG

AI summary

A method of anchoring a connector element (10) in a receiving object (66) comprises inserting a distal end of the connector element (10) into a mounting hole in an insertion direction along an insertion axis; inserting a sleeve (36) comprising a thermoplastic material into the mounting hole, the sleeve (36) enclosing the connector element (10); and transferring energy to liquefy at least a portion of the thermoplastic material of the sleeve (36). A machine (500) configured for carrying out the method and a connector element anchoring kit comprising a connector element (10) and a sleeve (36) comprising thermoplastic material.