Tubular Coupling Fastening Assembly with Elastic Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fastening systems for aircraft applications require special tools for installation and removal, add weight, and can cause galvanic corrosion when used with certain materials, and often necessitate additional parts on cylindrical components.
Innovation Solution
A fastening assembly comprising tubular coupling members with interlocking keys and elastic means that allow for secure locking and easy tool-free installation and removal, eliminating the need for additional parts and reducing weight, while preventing galvanic corrosion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fastening systems (bolts, screws, retaining rings) are used, then reliable locking and securing of coupling members is achieved, but special tools are required for installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system enables self-service installation and removal through the interaction between the resilient ring and the coupling members. The resilient ring's elastic properties allow it to automatically engage with the coupling members during assembly and release during disassembly without requiring external tools, making the system self-sufficient for both installation and removal operations
2Reliability
If conventional fastening systems are used, then secure locking of coupling members is achieved, but additional parts and components are required in addition to the coupling members
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the fastening function directly into the coupling members themselves through the resilient ring mechanism. The resilient ring acts as an integrated locking element that combines the functions of both fastening and coupling, eliminating the need for separate fastening components and reducing overall system complexity
3Reliability
If steel retaining rings are used with aluminium or magnesium coupling members, then fastening function is achieved, but galvanically-induced corrosion phenomena arise
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies homogeneity by using resilient rings made from the same material family as the coupling members (aluminium or magnesium alloys). This material compatibility eliminates the galvanic potential difference between dissimilar metals, preventing galvanic corrosion while maintaining the fastening function through the resilient ring's elastic engagement
4Reliability
If conventional fastening systems are used, then secure locking is achieved, but weight reduction is compromised in aircraft applications
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts unnecessary components from the fastening system, retaining only the essential resilient ring element. By eliminating redundant parts such as separate locking mechanisms, washers, and additional fastening components, the system achieves weight reduction while maintaining secure locking through the resilient ring's elastic engagement with the coupling members
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
The solution provides a reliable, lightweight, and cost-effective fastening system that securely locks components without special tools and prevents galvanic corrosion, simplifying installation and removal while maintaining safety and reducing overall weight.
Implementation Method 1
elastic means, which, when the coupling members are in the lock position, exert elastic force to push the second coupling member in the insertion direction
Data Source
AI summary
A fastening assembly having a tubular first coupling member; a second coupling member insertable coaxially inside the first coupling member in a first direction; and releasable fastening means for locking the first and second coupling member to each other in a predetermined axial lock position. The fastening means include: first and second engaging means formed on the first and second coupling member, connectable to each other to define a foolproof angular insertion/release position, and releasable by positioning the second coupling member in a predetermined axial position inside the first coupling member; and third and fourth engaging means formed on the first and second coupling member and connectable to each other in a further angular position of the second coupling member, different from the angular insertion/release position, by moving the second coupling member axially, from the predetermined axial position, in a second direction opposite the first direction.