Tool-Free Screw Assembly With Integrated Anti-Loosening Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing screw assemblies require additional components like washers or adhesives to prevent loosening, which can lead to component loss, material dependency, and reduced durability due to frictional wear.
Innovation Solution
A tool-free screw assembly comprising a base, a stud, and a sleeve coaxially disposed on a common center axis, with latching mechanisms allowing for synchronous rotation and locking states without the need for external components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a washer is used with the screw to prevent loosening, then the locking force is improved, but the components are likely to be scattered and lost after disassembly, and the service life decreases due to frictional wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the washer's locking function directly into the screw head structure. The screw head includes a recessed portion with latching mechanisms that engage with the fastener, eliminating the need for a separate washer component while maintaining the locking force function.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw head structure serves multiple functions: it provides the locking force through latching mechanisms, allows for tool-free assembly and disassembly, and maintains durability without frictional wear. The integrated design combines what were previously separate components (screw and washer) into a single multi-functional unit.
2Reliability
If adhesive dispensing is used to fix the screw, then the locking force is improved, but repeated assembly and disassembly are not likely, and time for curing is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic latching mechanisms that can be engaged and disengaged through rotational movement. The latching arms can pivot between locked and unlocked positions, enabling repeated assembly and disassembly operations while maintaining secure locking when engaged, without the permanence of adhesive bonding.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the chemical bonding mechanism of adhesives with a mechanical latching system. The latching arms and engagement features provide secure fixation through mechanical interlocking, allowing for reversible connections without curing time or permanent bonding.
3Force
If a washer is used to increase locking force through friction, then the locking force is improved, but the service life decreases due to lack of abrasion resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanisms are designed to maintain their locking force through self-reinforcing engagement. As the fastener is tightened, the latching arms are forced into tighter engagement with the fastener's engagement features, creating a self-locking effect that maintains locking force without relying on frictional wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the friction-dependent function from the washer and replaces it with a positive mechanical engagement system. The latching mechanisms engage with geometric features on the fastener, providing locking force through interlocking rather than friction, thereby eliminating wear-related degradation.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a tool-free screw assembly includes a base, a stud, and a sleeve coaxially disposed on a center axis. The base has a second latching mechanism. The stud movably disposed through the base has a third latching mechanism. The sleeve movably sheathing over the stud has a first latching mechanism. In a first state, the sleeve and the base are latched by the first and the second latching mechanisms, and the sleeve and the stud are latched by the first and the third latching mechanism. In a second state, the sleeve and the base are separated from each other by unlatching the first and the second latching mechanism, and the sleeve and the stud are latched by the first and the third latching mechanism, such that the sleeve and the stud are synchronously rotatable relative to the base. A tool-free screw and an accessory thereof are also disclosed.