T-Slot Interlock Nut Structure for Vibration-Resistant Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional nut and bolt combinations used in structural frames with t-shaped slots loosen over time due to vibration, compromising the integrity and alignment of the frame by allowing components to rotate relative to each other.
Innovation Solution
A nut design with a rib that engages with the abutment wall of a t-slot frame member, using angled bores and threaded connections to securely lock components to the frame, preventing rotation and maintaining alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional nut and bolt combinations are used to secure components to frame members, then the initial connection is established, but the connection loosens over time when subjected to vibration and environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into separate functional elements: the frame member with t-slot, the nut with engagement features, and the bolt. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while working together as a system that prevents loosening through distributed contact points and mechanical interlocking
Solution Approach 2:
The nut is designed with pre-formed engagement features including ribs that protrude into the t-slot and shoulder surfaces that contact the frame member face. These features are built into the nut structure before assembly, ensuring that when the bolt is tightened, the connection immediately engages multiple restraint points rather than relying solely on friction
2Ease of operation
If conventional friction-type fasteners are used, then components can be easily assembled, but the components are allowed to rotate with respect to one another, compromising alignment integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The nut incorporates localized engagement features at specific positions: ribs at the ends of the t-slot for lateral restraint, shoulder surfaces for axial contact, and potentially intermediate engagement points. This local quality approach provides rotation prevention at critical locations without requiring the entire fastener system to be overly complex
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement features of the nut are asymmetrically positioned relative to the t-slot geometry. The ribs extend in directions that correspond to the slot boundaries, creating non-uniform contact patterns that effectively prevent rotation in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions while maintaining simple assembly
3Reliability
If specialized fasteners with mechanical interfaces are used to prevent loosening, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nut is designed as a universal fastening solution that works with standard t-slot frame members and conventional bolts. The single nut component performs multiple functions: lateral restraint through ribs, axial positioning through shoulder surfaces, and rotation prevention through the combination of these features. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized complex fasteners while maintaining connection stability
Solution Approach 2:
The nut combines multiple engagement features (ribs, shoulder surfaces, and internal threading) into a single integrated component. This merging of functions into one part simplifies the overall assembly process compared to using multiple separate restraint elements, while still providing the mechanical interlocking necessary to prevent loosening
Data Source
AI summary
A nut is provided for mechanically interlocking a component to a t-slot frame member. The component is positionable on the t-slot frame member and the nut is receivable in a t-slot in the frame member. The nut includes first and second shoulder surfaces extending outwardly from each other and lying in a common plane. A rib projects from the first shoulder surface. A bolt extending through a bore in the component and is threadable into a threaded bore in the nut. The threading of the bolt into the threaded bore draws the first shoulder surface toward a first abutment wall defining the t-slot such that the rib engages the first abutment wall.