Flexible Zipnut Fastener for Universal Bolt Thread Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening systems, such as bolts and screws, often require exact thread matching and are inconvenient for flexible use, lacking a reliable and cost-effective solution for secure fastening.
Innovation Solution
A zipnut system comprising a flexible vane, serrated edge, and fins that deform to engage with various bolt threads, providing a universal fastening mechanism with a friction-fit grip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional bolts and nuts are used, then secure fastening is achieved, but thread matching complexity and inconvenience increase
Solution Approach 1:
The zipnut is designed with a flexible body that can adapt to multiple thread types and sizes, making a single fastener serve universal functions rather than requiring different nuts for different bolts. The flexible material allows the same zipnut to accommodate various thread configurations through deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The zipnut utilizes material flexibility and deformability as a key parameter, allowing it to change its physical state from a compact flat form during shipping to an expanded engaged form during use. This parameter change enables adaptation to different thread configurations without requiring precise pre-matching.
2Strength
If traditional rigid nuts are used, then structural strength is maintained, but adaptability to different bolt configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The zipnut transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible structure that can deform and adapt during engagement. The flexibility allows the zipnut to dynamically adjust its shape to match different thread configurations while maintaining fastening strength through the friction-fit mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The zipnut is constructed from flexible material that forms a thin, adaptable shell capable of deforming to accommodate various thread types. This flexible shell structure replaces traditional rigid nut geometries, enabling adaptability across different bolt configurations while maintaining structural integrity during fastening.
3Reliability
If thick-profile nuts are used, then engagement security is improved, but packing efficiency and shipping cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The zipnut structure is segmented into collapsible sections that can be compressed into a compact flat profile for shipping, then expanded during engagement to provide secure fastening. This segmentation allows the same structure to occupy minimal space during transport while providing full engagement capability during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The zipnut dynamically changes its volume and profile from a compact flat state during shipping to an expanded engaged state during use. This dynamic transformation allows the fastener to minimize packing volume while maintaining the capability to provide secure engagement when deployed.
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 zipnut system offers convenient, secure, and adaptable fastening suitable for multiple bolt sizes, ensuring reliable engagement and disengagement without the need for exact thread matching.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible vane which presses to the bolt
Implementation Method 2
a serrated edge used for grip
Implementation Method 3
fins which feed into and grip the bolt threads
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, the zipnut an alternative solution for a nut on a bolt. The main advantage is that it can fit many sizes of bolts where common nuts must be exact for each bolt. The device contours to the bolt as it is being pushed/threaded through.