Torque-Limiting Nut Structure for Wrench-Free Break-Off Bolt Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Break-off bolts require a torque wrench for precise installation, which may not be available on-site, complicating the installation process and necessitating additional tools for securing conductors in connectors.
Innovation Solution
A torque-limiting nut with a head section and thread section separated by a predetermined breaking area, featuring an abutment shoulder to prevent further rotation after a predetermined torque is applied, allowing for secure installation without a torque wrench.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a torque wrench is used to secure the break-off bolt, then the predetermined torque is ensured, but the installation process becomes more complex and requires additional tools
Solution Approach 1:
The torque-limiting nut is designed to automatically limit the torque applied to the break-off bolt during installation. The nut itself serves as the torque control mechanism through its structural design (predetermined breaking area), eliminating the need for external torque-wrenching equipment and enabling self-regulating torque application.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque control function is extracted from the separate torque wrench tool and integrated directly into the torque-limiting nut component. By incorporating the torque-limiting mechanism within the nut structure itself, the patent eliminates the need for a separate torque-wrenching device while maintaining precise torque control.
2Measurement precision
If a torque wrench is required for installation, then accurate torque control is achieved, but installation efficiency decreases due to tool availability constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The torque-limiting nut automatically controls the torque applied during installation through its inherent structural design. The predetermined breaking area enables the nut to self-limit torque without requiring external torque-wrenching tools, thereby eliminating installation delays caused by tool availability and significantly improving installation efficiency.
3Shape
If the break-off bolt is designed with a predetermined breaking area, then excess length can be broken off, but the bolt requires additional components like the torque-limiting nut to control installation torque
Solution Approach 1:
The torque-limiting nut is designed as an integrated component that combines multiple functions: it serves as both the torque control mechanism and the installation fastener. The nut's structure (including the predetermined breaking area and abutment shoulder) merges the torque-limiting function with the fastening function, eliminating the need for separate torque-control devices and reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A torque-limiting nut for a break-off bolt includes a thread section having an internal thread, a head section having an abutment shoulder extending further toward a radial inward direction than the internal thread, and a predetermined breaking area separating the thread section and the head section. The abutment shoulder is arranged adjoining to the predetermined breaking area.