Wire Thread Insert Self-Locking Structure for Tool-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wire thread inserts require complex and costly assembly processes, often necessitating specialized tools and additional working steps for secure fastening, which complicates the reinforcement of threaded components.
Innovation Solution
A wire thread insert with integral form-fitting means at both ends that establish a self-locking, rotation-inhibiting connection with the threaded component, eliminating the need for additional fastening methods like welding or rivets by utilizing its inherent spring force and shape to secure itself within the thread.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional assembly methods (driving notch or driving tang) are used to insert the helical wire into the receiving thread, then the wire thread insert can be securely installed, but the assembly process becomes complex and requires costly specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
The wire thread insert is designed with integral form-fitting means that automatically engage with the receiving thread during installation. The spring force of the helical wire causes the form-fitting means to snap into engagement with the thread flanks, enabling self-installation without specialized tools or complex procedures while maintaining secure attachment
2Ease of operation
If conventional assembly methods with driving tang are used, then the helical wire can be rotated into the receiving thread, but the driving tang must be broken and removed after assembly adding additional steps
Solution Approach 1:
The form-fitting means are designed to self-install and self-lock during the insertion process. The helical wire's spring force automatically engages the form-fitting means with the receiving thread, eliminating the need for separate driving tang components that would require breaking and removal. The installation is complete in one continuous motion without additional steps
3Ease of operation
If the helical wire is provided with a driving notch, then it can be dragged and rotated into the receiving thread, but the cross-section of the wire changes making the winding process more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The form-fitting means are integrally formed with the helical wire as a single continuous component. The wire maintains its uniform circular cross-section throughout the helical structure, including at the locations where form-fitting means are present. This integration eliminates the need for separate driving notches or tangs that would disrupt the winding process, while still providing secure engagement with the receiving thread
4Reliability
If additional fastening methods like welding or rivets are used to secure the wire thread insert, then the connection becomes more secure, but the assembly process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The wire thread insert automatically secures itself to the threaded component through the engagement of its form-fitting means with the receiving thread. The spring force of the helical wire maintains constant pressure on the form-fitting means, creating a self-locking connection that does not require welding, riveting, or other additional fastening methods. This single-step self-securing process maintains both connection security and assembly speed
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
Facilitates a simplified, cost-effective, and secure fastening process without requiring additional tools or steps, ensuring stable retention and easy installation and removal of the wire thread insert.
Implementation Method 1
eliminating the need for additional fastening methods like welding or rivets by utilizing its inherent spring force and shape to secure itself within the thread
Data Source
AI summary
Wire thread insert consisting of a body with a plurality of helically wound windings, in which the plurality of helically wound windings comprises a first end winding and a second end winding which define the body at opposite axial ends, the first end winding has a first integral form-fitting means in a first end section and the second end winding has a second integral form-fitting means in a second end section, so that in an installed state of the wire thread insert a form-fit rotation-inhibiting connection with an adjacent component structure can be produced via the first and the second integral form-fitting means respectively.