Threaded Insert Removal Tool with C-Bracket and Plunger
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools fail to efficiently remove threaded inserts from supporting structures in vehicles like aircraft without causing damage to the structure, necessitating a tool and method that can quickly and non-destructively release inserts for maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A tool comprising a C-shaped bracket and an adjustable plunger component that positions on the supporting wall structure, allowing the plunger to apply increasing force to release the threaded insert, minimizing structural damage through a bracket with a structure supporting arm and plunger positioning arm, and a plunger component with a bearing surface and guide tip to engage the insert.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing tools are used to remove threaded inserts, then removal can be achieved, but structural damage and degradation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized removal tool as an intermediary device between the removal process and the threaded insert. This tool includes a support structure that distributes force and a removal mechanism that applies controlled pressure, thereby mediating the removal process to prevent direct damage to the supporting structure while still achieving insert removal
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure of the removal tool is designed to provide beforehand cushioning by distributing the removal forces across a larger area of the supporting structure. This prevents concentration of stress at critical points that would cause damage, thereby protecting the structural integrity before damage can occur
2Ease of repair
If threaded inserts are removed for maintenance, then component replacement is enabled, but removal time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The removal tool is designed to be self-contained with all necessary components integrated into a single device. The tool automatically positions itself on the threaded insert and applies removal forces without requiring additional tools or complex procedures, thereby enabling easy maintenance while minimizing removal time
Solution Approach 2:
The removal tool is segmented into distinct functional components: a support structure for force distribution and a removal mechanism for insert extraction. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, streamlining the overall removal process and reducing the time required for maintenance operations
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
Enables quick, non-destructive removal of threaded inserts, preserving the structural integrity of the supporting wall structure, allowing for easy replacement and maintenance with minimal physical trauma.
Implementation Method 1
continued insertion of the plunger component into the bracket increases force imparted on the exposed end of the threaded insert
Implementation Method 2
the guide tip shaped and sized to fit within the internally threaded barrel of the threaded insert during use
Implementation Method 3
a threaded body configured to engage the threaded hole of the plunger positioning arm
Data Source
AI summary
A method of removing a threaded insert from a wall structure is disclosed, where the insert has a flange and an internally threaded barrel. The disclosed method involves: introducing a bracket onto an outer edge of the wall structure, the bracket having a supporting arm with a hole, and the bracket having a plunger positioning arm with a threaded hole. The bracket is positioned such that the supporting arm is located on a first side of the wall structure, the plunger positioning arm is located on a second side of the wall structure, and the flange resides in the hole. A threaded plunger component is actuated to move a distal end section of the plunger component toward an exposed end of the threaded insert. Continued actuation of the plunger component increases force imparted on the exposed end of the threaded insert, until the insert is released from the wall structure.