阅读说明：本技术 机械紧固系统及相关结构组件和方法
(Mechanical fastening system and related structural assembly and method
) 是由 杰瑞·D·淳彬 于 2020-04-01 设计创作，主要内容包括：本申请涉及机械紧固系统及相关结构组件和方法。一种结构组件,包括：第一结构构件,限定第一局部孔并且包括第一凸起和第二凸起；第二结构构件,限定第二局部孔并且包括第一凸起和第二凸起,其中,第二局部孔与第一局部孔对准以限定通孔；轴,延伸穿过通孔,其中,轴包括第一端部和第二端部；第一接合构件,靠近第一端部,其中,第一接合构件接合第一结构构件的第一凸起和第二结构构件的第一凸起两者；以及第二接合构件,靠近第二端部,其中,第二接合构件接合第一结构构件的第二凸起和第二结构构件的第二凸起两者。(The present application relates to mechanical fastening systems and related structural assemblies and methods. A structural assembly, comprising: a first structural member defining a first partial hole and including a first projection and a second projection; a second structural member defining a second partial hole and including a first protrusion and a second protrusion, wherein the second partial hole is aligned with the first partial hole to define a through hole; a shaft extending through the through-hole, wherein the shaft includes a first end and a second end; a first engagement member proximate the first end, wherein the first engagement member engages both the first projection of the first structural member and the first projection of the second structural member; and a second engagement member proximate the second end, wherein the second engagement member engages both the second projection of the first structural member and the second projection of the second structural member.)
1. A structural assembly (200), comprising:
a first structural member including a first side and a second side opposite the first side and defining a first partial hole extending from the first side to the second side, the first structural member further including a first projection and a second projection, the first projection of the first structural member projecting on the first side of the first structural member proximate a perimeter of the first partial hole, the second projection of the first structural member projecting on the second side of the first structural member proximate the perimeter of the first partial hole;
a second structural member including a first side and a second side opposite the first side and defining a second partial hole extending from the first side to the second side, the second structural member further including a first projection and a second projection, the first projection of the second structural member projecting on the first side of the second structural member proximate a perimeter of the second partial hole, the second projection of the second structural member projecting on the second side of the second structural member proximate the perimeter of the second partial hole, wherein the second partial hole is aligned with the first partial hole along a hole axis to define a through hole;
a shaft extending through the through bore, wherein the shaft includes a first end and a second end longitudinally opposite the first end;
a first engagement member proximate the first end, wherein the first engagement member engages both the first projection of the first structural member and the first projection of the second structural member; and
a second engagement member proximate the second end, wherein the second engagement member engages both the second projection of the first structural member and the second projection of the second structural member.
2. The structural assembly (200) of claim 1, wherein the first engagement member (2120) is in threaded engagement with the first end (2150) of the shaft (2140).
3. The structural assembly (200) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the second engagement member (2130) is in threaded engagement with the second end (2160) of the shaft (2140).
4. The structural assembly (200) of claim 1, wherein the first end portion (3150) of the shaft (3140) includes a mechanical deformation (3151) in abutting engagement with the first engagement member (3120).
5. The structural assembly (200) of claim 1 or 4, wherein the second end (3160) of the shaft (3140) includes a mechanical deformation (3151) in abutting engagement with the second engagement member (3130).
6. The structural assembly (200) of claim 1, wherein the first engagement member (3120) includes a mechanical deformation (3151) extending from the first end (3150) of the shaft (3140), and wherein the second engagement member (3130) includes a mechanical deformation extending from the second end (3160) of the shaft.
7. The structural assembly (200) of claim 1, wherein the first engagement member (5120, 5220, 5320) is connected to the first end (5150, 5250, 5350) of the shaft (5140, 5240, 5340).
8. The structural assembly (200) of claim 7, wherein the connection comprises at least one of a joint, a bond, and an interference fit.
9. The structural assembly (200) of claim 1 or 7, wherein the second engagement member (5130, 5230, 5330) is connected to the second end (5160, 5260, 5360).
10. The structural assembly (200) of claim 1, wherein the shaft (2340) includes a flange (2370) in abutting engagement with the first engagement member (2320).
11. The structural assembly (200) of claim 1, wherein the first engagement member (102) is integral with the shaft (114).
12. The structural assembly (200) of claim 1, wherein the shaft defines a through-hole extending along a length of the shaft.
13. The structural assembly (200) of claim 1, wherein the shaft (6140) further comprises a projection (6151) extending radially outward from the first end (6150) of the shaft, wherein the projection is in abutting engagement with the first engagement member (6120), and wherein the projection is defined by a plurality of discontinuous connecting fingers (6152).
14. The structural assembly (200) of claim 1, wherein the first engagement member (7120) is integral with and projects radially outward from the first end (7150) of the shaft (7140), and wherein the first engagement member is defined by a plurality of discontinuous connecting fingers (7121).
15. The structural assembly (200) of claim 14, wherein:
the shaft (7140) defines a through-hole (1030) extending along a length of the shaft (7140); and is
The structural assembly further includes a plunger (7190) at least partially received in the through bore of the shaft;
wherein the plunger comprises a protrusion (7191) extending radially outward from the plunger, and wherein the protrusion pushes the first engagement member (7120) radially outward.
Technical Field
The present application relates to the connection of structural members, and more particularly, to a mechanical fastening system for connecting one structural member to one or more other structural members.
Background
A wing of an aircraft is typically constructed from ribs, spars, and skin panels (e.g., upper and lower skin panels). In particular, the ribs are spaced apart from one another along the length of the wing. The forward ends of the ribs are connected to the front spar and the aft ends of the ribs are connected to the rear spar. An upper skin panel is connected to an upper portion of each rib and a lower skin panel is connected to a lower portion of each rib.
The ribs, spars and skin panels thus define a closed wing box which may be used as a tank for fuel storage purposes for some aircraft. Once the wing box is closed, any work that must be performed in the wing requires personnel access to the confined space. Therefore, various safety precautions must be taken, which increases the overall cost of aircraft manufacture.
To avoid the limited space problem, split wing (split wing) designs have been developed. As an example, a two-piece rib is used, wherein an upper skin panel is connected to an upper rib section and a lower skin panel is connected to a lower rib section. Thus, the wing box can be opened for work or inspection and then closed by connecting the upper and lower wing rib portions. However, the process of aligning and connecting the upper and lower rib portions is time consuming and the fasteners used add significant weight to the aircraft.
Accordingly, those skilled in the art continue to conduct research and development work directed to the connection of structural members.
Disclosure of Invention
A structural assembly is disclosed. In one example, a disclosed structural assembly includes: a first structural member having a first side and a second side opposite the first side and defining a first partial hole extending from the first side to the second side, the first structural member further including a first projection extending on the first side of the first structural member proximate a perimeter of the first partial hole and a second projection extending on the second side of the first structural member proximate the perimeter of the first partial hole; a second structural member including a first side and a second side opposite the first side and defining a second partial hole extending from the first side to the second side, the second structural member further including a first projection projecting on the first side of the second structural member proximate a periphery of the second partial hole and a second projection projecting on the second side of the second structural member proximate a periphery of the second partial hole, wherein the second partial hole is aligned with the first partial hole along the hole axis to define a through hole; a shaft extending through the through-hole, wherein the shaft includes a first end and a second end longitudinally opposite the first end; a first engagement member proximate the first end, wherein the first engagement member engages both the first projection of the first structural member and the first projection of the second structural member; and a second engagement member proximate the second end, wherein the second engagement member engages both the second projection of the first structural member and the second projection of the second structural member.
In another example, a structural assembly is disclosed that includes: a first structural member having a first side and a second side opposite the first side and defining a first partial hole extending from the first side to the second side, the first structural member further including a first projection extending on the first side of the first structural member proximate a perimeter of the first partial hole and a second projection extending on the second side of the first structural member proximate the perimeter of the first partial hole; a second structural member including a first side and a second side opposite the first side and defining a second partial hole extending from the first side to the second side, the second structural member further including a first projection projecting on the first side of the second structural member proximate a periphery of the second partial hole and a second projection projecting on the second side of the second structural member proximate a periphery of the second partial hole, wherein the second partial hole is aligned with the first partial hole along the hole axis to define a through hole; a first engaging member engaged with both the first projection of the first structural member and the first projection of the second structural member; and a second engagement member engaged with both the second projection of the first structural member and the second projection of the second structural member, wherein the first structural member and the second structural member are clamped between the first engagement member and the second engagement member.
Also disclosed is a method for joining a first structural member to a second structural member, each of the first and second structural members including a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a partial hole extending from the first side to the second side, a first protrusion extending on the first side proximate a perimeter of the partial hole, and a second protrusion extending on the second side proximate a perimeter of the partial hole. In one example, the disclosed method may include the steps of: (1) aligning the partial hole of the first structural member with the partial hole of the second structural member along a hole axis to define a through hole; (2) positioning a first engagement member to engage both the first projection of the first structural member and the first projection of the second structural member; and (3) positioning a second engagement member to engage both the second projection of the first structural member and the second projection of the second structural member.
In another example, the disclosed method may include the steps of: (1) aligning the partial hole of the first structural member with the partial hole of the second structural member along a hole axis to define a through hole; (2) positioning a first engagement member to engage both the first projection of the first structural member and the first projection of the second structural member; (3) positioning a second engagement member in engagement with both the second projection of the first structural member and the second projection of the second structural member; and (4) applying a clamping force to the first and second engagement members to clamp the first and second structural members between the first and second engagement members.
Other examples of the disclosed mechanical fastening system and related structural assemblies and methods will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.
Drawings
FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an example aircraft incorporating the disclosed mechanical fastening system;
FIG. 2 is a partially exploded side sectional view of a portion of a wing of the aircraft of FIG. 1;
FIGS. 3A and 3B are exploded perspective views of one example of the disclosed mechanical fastening system;
FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of two structural members connected by the mechanical fastening system of FIGS. 3A and 3B;
FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly that may be formed by connecting the structural member of FIG. 4 with the mechanical fastening system of FIGS. 3A and 3B;
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the structural assembly of FIG. 5;
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of another example of the disclosed structural assembly;
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of yet another example of the disclosed structural assembly;
FIG. 9 is a flow chart depicting one example of the disclosed connection method;
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by a one-piece threaded mechanical fastening system;
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by another one-piece threaded mechanical fastening system;
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by yet another one-piece threaded mechanical fastening system;
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by a mechanical fastening system that secures the engagement members using mechanical deformation;
FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by another mechanical fastening system that uses mechanical deformation to secure the engagement members;
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by yet another mechanical fastening system that uses mechanical deformation to secure the engagement members;
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by a mechanical fastening system that directly secures the structural assembly using mechanical deformation;
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by another mechanical fastening system that directly secures the structural assembly using mechanical deformation;
FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by yet another mechanical fastening system that directly secures the structural assembly using mechanical deformation;
FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of one example of the disclosed mechanical fastening system, which is directly connected to a shaft;
FIG. 20 is a rear exploded perspective view of one example of the disclosed mechanical fastening system; the mechanical fastening system is directly connected to the shaft;
FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by a mechanical fastening system directly connected to the shaft;
FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by another mechanical fastening system directly connected to the shaft;
FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of yet another example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by a mechanical fastening system directly connected to the shaft;
FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of one example of the disclosed structural components secured by a "click" mechanical fastening system;
FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by a "click" mechanical fastening system;
FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by a plunger mechanical fastening system;
FIG. 27 is a perspective view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by a plunger mechanical fastening system;
FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of one example of the disclosed structural assembly secured by a plunger mechanical fastening system;
FIG. 29 is a flow chart of an aircraft manufacturing and service method; and
fig. 30 is a block diagram of an aircraft.
Detailed Description
The disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 (fig. 3A and 3B) may be incorporated into an aircraft, such as the fixed-wing aircraft 10 shown in fig. 1, or a rotary-wing aircraft. Various aircraft, including commercial aircraft, personal aircraft, and military aircraft, may benefit from the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Various non-aircraft applications, including non-aerospace applications, are also contemplated for the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100.
Referring to FIG. 1, an aircraft 10 may include a fuselage 12, one or more wings 14 (two wings 14 are shown in FIG. 1), and one or more engines 16 (two engines 16 are shown in FIG. 1). Each wing 14 of the aircraft 10 may be fixedly coupled to the fuselage 12 and may extend outwardly from the fuselage 12. Each engine 16 may be connected to (e.g., suspended below) an associated wing 14 by a pylon 18.
Referring to fig. 2, each wing 14 of the aircraft 10 may include ribs 20 (only one rib 20 is shown in fig. 2), a forward spar 22, an aft spar 24, a first (e.g., upper) skin portion 26, and a second (e.g., lower) skin portion 28. The rib 20 may include a first (e.g., upper) rib portion 30 and a second (e.g., lower) rib portion 32. The first skin portion 26 may be connected to a first rib portion 30 and the second skin portion 28 may be connected to a second rib portion 32. The first rib section 30 can be connected to the second rib section 32 using the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 to form the assembled rib 20.
The forward end 34 of the rib 20 may be connected to the forward spar 22, for example, using mechanical fasteners 36, and the aft end 38 of the rib 20 may be connected to the aft spar 24, for example, using mechanical fasteners 40. Additionally, a front control surface 42 (e.g., a slat) may be connected to the front spar 22, and a rear control surface 44 (e.g., a flap) may be connected to the rear spar 24. Accordingly, the wing 14 may include a wing box 46 defined by the ribs 20, the forward and aft control surfaces 42, 44, and the first and second skin portions 26, 28.
As shown in fig. 2, the wing 14 may be opened by separating the first rib section 30 and the associated first skin section 26 from the wing box 46. This separation can be achieved by separating the first rib section 30 from the second rib section 32 by means of the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100. Then, once any work and/or inspection within the wing 14 is completed, the wing 14 may be closed by connecting the first rib section 30 (and associated first skin section 26) with the second rib section 32 via the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100.
Referring to fig. 3A and 3B, one example of the disclosed mechanical fastening system, generally designated 100, may include a first engagement member 102, a second engagement member 104, and a clamping assembly 106. The first engagement member 102 may be aligned with the second engagement member 104 along the longitudinal axis a. The clamping assembly 106 is engageable with both the first and second engagement members 102, 104 to urge the first engagement member 102 axially (along the longitudinal axis a) toward the second engagement member 104 to facilitate clamping of the structural member therebetween, as described in greater detail herein.
In the example of fig. 3A and 3B, the clamping assembly 106 may include a bolt member 110 and a nut member 112. The bolt member 110 may engage the first engagement member 102. The nut member 112 may engage the second engagement member 104 and may be threadedly engaged with the bolt member 110. Thus, by screwing the nut member 112 onto the bolt member 110, the first engagement member 102 can be axially pushed toward the second engagement member 104.
Specifically, the bolt member 110 of the clamping assembly 106 may include a shaft 114 elongated along a longitudinal axis a and including a first end 116 and a second end 118 longitudinally opposite the first end 116. The shaft 114 of the bolt member 110 may optionally define a bolt member through bore 120 extending from the first end 116 to the second end 118. Although optional, the use of a bolt member 110 having a bolt member through-hole 120 may reduce the overall weight of the mechanical fastening system 100 and may provide a route for wires, hoses, pipes, etc. (the bolt member through-hole 120).
The first engagement member 102 of the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 may be fixedly connected to a first end 116 of the shaft 114 of the bolt member 110 of the clamping assembly 106. For example, as shown in fig. 3A and 3B, the first engagement member 102 may be integral with the first end 116 of the shaft 114 of the bolt member 110 (e.g., the bolt member 110 and the first engagement member 102 may be formed as a single unitary body). When the bolt member 110 has the bolt member through hole 120, the first engagement member 102 may be substantially annular so as not to block the bolt member through hole 120.
The threads 122 may extend from the second end 118 of the shaft 114 toward the first end 116 along the shaft 114 of the bolt member 110. The nut member 112 may be provided with corresponding threads 124 and may be threaded onto the shaft 114 of the bolt member 110. Thus, when the second engagement member 104 of the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 is coaxially received on the shaft 114 of the bolt member 110 (similar to a washer), the process of threading the nut member 112 onto the bolt member 110 may bring the nut member 112 into abutting engagement with the second engagement member 104, thereby urging the second engagement member 104 along the shaft 114 toward the first engagement member 102.
While the clamping assembly 106 is shown and described as employing a threaded engagement, it is contemplated that clamping assemblies employing various techniques other than threading (e.g., ratcheting) may be used to achieve the proximity of the first engagement member 102 to the second engagement member 104. The use of a non-thread based clamping assembly would not result in a departure from the scope of the present disclosure.
As shown in fig. 3A, the first coupling member 102 of the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 may define a recess 130 that extends axially into the first coupling member 102 and opens toward the second coupling member 104. In one particular configuration, the first engagement member 102 may include an annular body 132 having an annular surface 134, and the recess 130 may be a groove 136 extending circumferentially along the annular surface 134. Although the groove 136 is shown as continuous in fig. 3A, it is also contemplated that the groove 136 may be discontinuous (e.g., comprised of two or more spaced-apart groove segments).
Although the engagement members 102, 104 are shown in the figures as having an annular body 132 with an annular surface 134, engagement members 102, 104 having various other shapes and configurations may be used to achieve the same function as the illustrated engagement members 102, 104. Variations in the shape of the engagement member will not result in departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
As shown in fig. 3B, the second engagement member 104 of the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 can define a recess 140 that extends axially into the second engagement member 104 and opens toward the first engagement member 102. In one particular configuration, the second engagement member 104 may include an annular body 142 having an annular surface 144, and the recess 140 may be a groove 146 extending circumferentially along the annular surface 144. Although the groove 146 is shown as being continuous in fig. 3B, it is also contemplated that the groove 146 may be discontinuous (e.g., comprised of two or more spaced-apart groove segments).
The mechanical fastening system 100 may be assembled by positioning the second joint member 104 on the shaft 114 of the bolt member 110 and screwing the nut component 112 onto the bolt member 110. Once assembled, the first engagement member 102 may be axially aligned with the second engagement member 104 such that the recess 130 (e.g., groove 136) in the first engagement member 102 faces the recess 140 (e.g., groove 146) in the second engagement member 104.
The disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 may be used to connect two or more structural members 202, 204 (fig. 4) to create a structural assembly 200 (fig. 5 and 6). Importantly, once the structural members 202, 204 have been connected to form the structural assembly 200, the structural members 202, 204 can then be separated by the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 and, if desired, re-connected by the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100.
Referring to fig. 5 and 6, one example of the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 200, may include a first structural member 202, a second structural member 204, and the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 (five mechanical fastening systems 100 are shown in fig. 5). The mechanical fastening system 100 may connect the first structural member 202 to the second structural member 204.
The first structural member 202 of the disclosed structural assembly 200 may include a first side 210 and a second side 212 (fig. 6) opposite the first side 210. As best shown in fig. 4, the first structural member 202 may define a first partial hole 214 (two first partial holes 214 are shown in fig. 4) extending through the first structural member 202 from the first side 210 to the second side 212. The first partial hole 214 has a perimeter 216.
As best shown in fig. 6, a first protrusion 218 may protrude on the first side 210 of the first structural member 202 proximate (at or near) the perimeter 216 of the first partial aperture 214. Similarly, a second protrusion 220 may protrude on the second side 212 of the first structural member 202 proximate (at or near) the perimeter 216 of the first partial aperture 214. The first and second projections 218, 220 of the first structural member 202 may be sized and shaped to be at least partially received within the respective recesses 130, 140 of the first and second engaging members 102, 104 of the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100.
In one particular configuration, the first protrusion 218 of the first structural member 202 may be a first ridge 222, and the first ridge 222 may extend completely or partially along the perimeter 216 of the first partial hole 214. Similarly, second protrusion 220 of first structural member 202 may be a second ridge 224, and second ridge 224 may extend completely or partially along perimeter 216 of first partial hole 214. First ridge 222 and second ridge 224 of first structural member 202 may be sized and shaped to be at least partially received within respective grooves 136, 146 of first and second engaging members 102, 104 of the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100. For example, first ridge 222 and second ridge 224 may have a circular cross-sectional profile, as shown in FIG. 6.
Referring again to fig. 5 and 6, the second structural member 204 of the disclosed structural assembly 200 can include a first side 230 and a second side 232 (fig. 6) opposite the first side 230. As best shown in fig. 4, the second structural member 204 may define a second partial hole 234 (two second partial holes 234 are shown in fig. 4) that extends through the second structural member 204 from the first side 230 to the second side 232. The second partial hole 234 has a perimeter 236.
As best shown in fig. 6, a first projection 238 may project on the first side 230 of the second structural member 204 proximate (at or near) a perimeter 236 of the second partial aperture 234. Similarly, a second projection 240 can project on the second side 232 of the second structural member 204 proximate (at or near) the perimeter 236 of the second partial aperture 234. The first and second protrusions 238, 240 of the second structural member 204 may be sized and shaped to be at least partially received within the respective recesses 130, 140 of the first and second engaging members 102, 104 of the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100.
In one particular configuration, the first projection 238 of the second structural member 204 may be a third ridge 242, and the third ridge 242 may extend completely or partially along the perimeter 236 of the second partial aperture 234. Similarly, the second projection 240 of the second structural member 204 may be a fourth ridge 244, and the fourth ridge 244 may extend fully or partially along the perimeter 236 of the second partial aperture 234. The third and fourth ridges 242, 244 of the second structural member 204 may be sized and shaped to be at least partially received within the respective grooves 136, 146 of the first and second engagement members 102, 104 of the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100. For example, the third and fourth ridges 242, 244 may have a circular cross-sectional profile, as shown in fig. 6.
In this regard, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the first structural member 202 of the disclosed structural assembly 200 may be the first rib portion 30 (FIG. 2) of the wing 14 (FIG. 2) of the aircraft 10 (FIG. 1) and the second structural member 204 may be the second rib portion 32 such that the structural assembly 200 is the assembled rib 20. However, this is only one specific and non-limiting aerospace example. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various structural members 202, 204 may be connected with the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100, and the particular size, shape, configuration, and function of the structural members 202, 204 is not limiting. Indeed, the disclosed structural assembly 200 may be used in various non-aerospace applications, such as automotive applications, marine applications, and residential/commercial building applications, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
Referring now to fig. 6, to connect the first structural member 202 with the second structural member 204, the first structural member 202 may be positioned relative to the second structural member 204 such that the first partial hole 214 of the first structural member 202 is substantially aligned with the second partial hole 234 of the second structural member 204 along the hole axis B. Accordingly, the first and second structural members 202, 204 may define a through-hole 250 that includes the first and second partial holes 214, 234.
Although a cylindrical through-hole 250 is shown, through-holes having various shapes may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The cylindrical through hole 250 is merely a specific non-limiting example.
With the through-hole 250 defined, the bolt member 110 of the clamp assembly 106 of the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 may be inserted through the through-hole 250, thereby engaging the first engagement member 102 with both the first projection 218 of the first structural member 202 and the first projection 238 of the second structural member 204. When the first engagement member 102 is engaged with the first protrusions 218, 238 of the first and second structural members 202, 204, the first protrusions 218, 238 may be at least partially received within the recess 130 of the first engagement member 102.
With the bolt member 110 of the clamp assembly 106 of the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 extending through the through-hole 250, the second engagement member 104 may be received on the second end 118 of the bolt member 110. The nut member 112 may then be threaded onto the bolt member 110, thereby bringing the nut member 112 into abutting engagement with the second engagement member 104. When the nut member 112 is threaded onto the bolt member 110, the nut member 112 may urge the second engagement member 104 into engagement with the second projection 220 of the first structural member 202 and the second projection 240 of the second structural member 204. When the second engagement member 104 is engaged with the first and second protrusions 220, 240 of the second structural member 202, the second protrusions 220, 240 may be at least partially received within the recess 140 of the second engagement member 104.
When the nut member 112 of the clamping assembly 106 of the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 is threaded onto the bolt member 110, the first and second structural members 202 and 204 become clamped between the first and second joint members 102 and 104. Because the first engagement member 102 engages the first protrusions 218, 238 of the first and second structural members 202, 204 and the second engagement member 104 engages the second protrusions 220, 240 of the first and second structural members 202, 204, separation of the first structural member 202 relative to the second structural member 204 is prevented.
Thus, the disclosed mechanical fastening system 100 may be used to connect more than two structural members 202, 204. The mechanical fastening system 100 may be self-centering, may be capable of withstanding side and tension loads, and may be at or near weight neutral, particularly when the bolt member 110 includes a bolt member through bore 120.
Referring to fig. 7, in an alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 200', may include a first structural member 202', a second structural member 204', and a mechanical fastening system 100'. The mechanical fastening system 100 'may include a first engagement member 102', a second engagement member 104', and a clamping assembly 106'. The clamping assembly 106 'may be thread-based and may include a bolt member 110', a first nut member 112', and a second nut member 113'. The first nut member 112' may be threadedly engaged with the bolt member 110' and may be in abutting engagement with the first engagement member 102 '. The second nut member 113' may be threadedly engaged with the bolt member 110' and may be in abutting engagement with the second engagement member 104 '.
Thus, with the structural assembly 200', the first and second structural members 202', 204 'are clamped between the first and second joint members 102', 104 'due to the threaded engagement of the first and second nut members 112', 113 'with the bolt assembly 110'. This is in contrast to the structural assembly 200 (fig. 6), in which the first joint member 102 (fig. 6) is connected to (e.g., integral with) the bolt member 110 (fig. 6).
Referring to fig. 8, in another alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 200 ", may include a first structural member 202", a second structural member 204 ", and a mechanical fastening system 100". The mechanical fastening system 100 "may include a first engagement member 102", a second engagement member 104 ", and a clamping assembly 106". The clamping assembly 106 "may be thread-based and may include a bolt member 110" and a nut member 112 ". The bolt member 110 "may include a flange 111" in abutting engagement with the first engagement member 102 ". The nut member 112 "may be threadably engaged with the bolt member 110" and may be in abutting engagement with the second engagement member 104 ". Thus, the first and second structural members 202 ", 204" may be clamped between the first and second engagement members 102 ", 104" by positioning the flange 111 "of the bolt member 110" against the first engagement member 102 "and screwing the nut component 112" into abutting engagement with the second engagement member 104 ".
A method for connecting a first structural member to a second structural member is also disclosed. Each structure may include a first side, a second side opposite the first side, a partial hole extending from the first side to the second side, a first protrusion extending from a perimeter of the partial hole on the first side, and a second protrusion extending from a perimeter of the partial hole on the second side.
Referring to fig. 9, one example of the disclosed joining method, generally designated 300, may begin at block 302 with the step of aligning the partial holes of the first structural member with the partial holes of the second structural member. The partial holes may be aligned along a hole axis to define a through hole.
At block 304, a first engagement member may be positioned to engage both the first projection of the first structural member and the first projection of the second structural member. The first engagement member may define one or more recesses (e.g., circumferential grooves), and engagement between the first engagement member and the first projections of the first and second structural members may include receiving the first projections in the recesses of the first engagement member.
At block 306, a second engagement member may be positioned to engage both the second projection of the first structural member and the second projection of the second structural member. The second engagement member may define one or more recesses (e.g., circumferential grooves), and engagement between the second engagement member and the second projections of the first and second structural members may include receiving the second projections in the recesses of the second engagement member
At block 308, a clamping force may be applied to the first and second engagement members. The clamping force may clamp the first and second structural members between the first and second engagement members. While a clamping assembly including a bolt member and a nut member is shown and described herein to apply such a clamping force, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various techniques may be used to apply a clamping force to the first and second engagement members to clamp the first and second structural members therebetween.
Referring to fig. 10, in an alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 2100, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020. A mechanical fastening system 2110 couples first structural member 1010 with second structural member 1020.
The first structural member 1010 includes a first side 1011 and a second side 1012 opposite the first side 1011. The first structural member 1010 defines a first partial aperture 1015 that extends from the first side 1011 to the second side 1012. The first projection 1013 protrudes on the first side 1011 of the first structural member 1010 near (at or near) the perimeter 1016 of the first partial aperture 1015. The second protrusion 1014 protrudes on the second side 1012 of the first structural member 1010 proximate a perimeter 1016 of the first partial aperture 1015.
The second structural member 1020 includes a first side 1021 and a second side 1022 opposite the first side 1021. Second structural member 1020 defines a second partial aperture 1025 extending from first side 1021 to second side 1022. First protrusion 1023 protrudes on first side 1021 of second structural member 1020 near (at or near) perimeter 1026 of second partial hole 1025. The second projection 1024 projects on the second side 1022 of the second structural member 1020 proximate a perimeter 1026 of the second partial aperture 1025. The second partial hole 1025 is along a hole axis B1Aligned with the first partial hole 1015 to define the through-hole 1030.
The mechanical fastening system 2110 includes a first engagement member 2120, a second engagement member 2130, and a shaft 2140. The shaft 2140 may have a generally circular cross-sectional shape that extends through the through-hole 1030 and includes a first end 2150 and a second end 2160. The first end 2150 may be provided with threads 2151 extending along the axis 2140 towards the second end 2160. The second end 2160 may be integral with the second engagement member 2130 (e.g., the second engagement member 2130 and the second end 2160 of the shaft 2140 may be formed as a single unitary body). The first engagement member 2120 may be provided with threads 2121 corresponding to the threads 2151 on the first end 2150 of the shaft 2140.
Thus, the first engagement member 2120 may be threaded onto the first end 2150 of the shaft 2140 and caused to engage both the first projection 1013 of the first structural member 1010 and the first projection 1023 of the second structural member 1020. Further, the threaded engagement between the first engagement member 2120 and the first end 2150 of the shaft 2140 may cause the second engagement member 2130 to engage with both the second protrusion 1014 of the first structural member 1010 and the second protrusion 1024 of the second structural member 1020. In this way, the threaded engagement of the first engagement member 2120 with the shaft 2140 may secure the first structural member 1010 relative to the second structural member 1020.
Referring to FIG. 11, in another alternative example, a disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 2200, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in FIG. 10). A mechanical fastening system 2210 couples the first structural member 1010 with the second structural member 1020. The mechanical fastening system 2210 includes a first engagement member 2220, a second engagement member 2230, and a shaft 2240. The shaft 2240 extends through the through bore 1030 and includes a first end 2250 and a second end 2260. First end 2250 may be provided with threads 2251 extending along axis 2240 towards second end 2260, and second end 2260 may be provided with threads 2261 extending along axis 2240 towards first end 2250. Further, the first engagement member 2220 may be provided with threads 2221 corresponding to the threads on the first end 2250, and the second engagement member 2230 may be provided with threads 2231 corresponding to the threads 2261 on the second end 2260.
Thus, first engagement member 2220 may be threaded onto first end 2250 of shaft 2240 and caused to engage both first projection 1013 of first structural member 1010 and first projection 1023 of second structural member 1020. The second engagement member 2230 may be threaded onto the second end 2260 of the shaft 2240 and caused to engage both the second protrusion 1014 of the first structural member 1010 and the second protrusion 1024 of the second structural member 1020. As such, the threaded engagement of first and second engagement members 2220, 2230 with shaft 2240 may secure first structural member 1010 relative to second structural member 1020.
Referring to fig. 12, in yet another alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 2300, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in fig. 10). Mechanical fastening system 2310 couples first structural member 1010 with second structural member 1020. The mechanical fastening system 2310 includes a first engagement member 2320, a second engagement member 2330, and a shaft 2340. The shaft 2340 extends through the through bore 1030 and includes a first end 2350 and a second end 2360. The first end 2350 may be provided with threads 2351 extending along an axis 2340 toward the second end 2360. The first engagement member 2320 may be provided with threads 2321 corresponding to the threads on the first end 2350. Second end portion 2360 can include a flange 2370 that abuttingly engages second engagement member 2330.
Thus, first engagement member 2320 can be threaded onto first end 2350 of shaft 2340 and urged into engagement with both first projection 1013 of first structural member 1010 and first projection 1023 of second structural member 1020. Further, by positioning the flange 2370 against the second engagement member 2330, the threaded engagement between the first engagement member 2320 and the first end 2350 of the shaft 2340 may urge the second engagement member 2330 into engagement with both the second boss 1014 of the first structural member 1010 and the second boss 1024 of the second structural member 1020. In this way, the threaded engagement of the first engagement member 2320 with the shaft 2340 may secure the first structural member 1010 relative to the second structural member 1020.
Referring now to fig. 13-28, an alternate example of a non-thread based mechanical fastening system is disclosed. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various combinations of threaded and non-threaded structures and components may be employed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
Referring to fig. 13, in an alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 3100, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in fig. 10). A mechanical fastening system 3110 couples the first structural member 1010 with the second structural member 1020. Mechanical fastening system 3110 includes first engagement member 3120, second engagement member 3130, and shaft 3140. Shaft 3140 extends through bore 1030 and includes a first end 3150 and a second end 3160. First end 3150 may be mechanically deformed such that mechanical deformation 3151 protrudes from shaft 3140 and abuttingly engages first engagement member 3120. Second end 3160 can be integral with second engagement member 3130 (e.g., second engagement member 3130 and second end 3160 of shaft 3140 can be formed as a single unitary body).
Accordingly, mechanical deformation 3151 can cause first engagement member 3120 to engage with both first projection 1013 of first structural member 1010 and first projection 1023 of second structural member 1020. Further, the engagement between mechanical deformation 3151 and first engagement member 3120 may cause second engagement member 3130 to engage both second projection 1014 of first structural member 1010 and second projection 1024 of second structural member 1020. In this way, the engagement of mechanical deformation 3151 with first engagement member 3120 may secure first structural member 1010 relative to second structural member 1020.
Referring to fig. 14, in another alternative example, a disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 3200, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in fig. 10). Mechanical fastening system 3210 couples first structural member 1010 with second structural member 1020. The mechanical fastening system 3210 includes a first engagement member 3220, a second engagement member 3230, and a shaft 3240. Shaft 3240 extends through bore 1030 and includes a first end 3250 and a second end 3260. The first end portion 3250 is mechanically deformable such that the first mechanically deformed portion 3251 protrudes from the shaft 3240 and abuttingly engages the first engagement member 3220. The second end portion 3260 is also mechanically deformable such that the second mechanically deformed portion 3261 protrudes from the shaft 3240 and abuttingly engages the second engagement member 3230.
Accordingly, first mechanical deformation 3251 can cause first engagement member 3220 to engage with both first protrusion 1013 of first structural member 1010 and first protrusion 1023 of second structural member 1020. The second mechanical deformation 3261 can cause the second engagement member 3230 to engage with both the second protrusion 1014 of the first structural member 1010 and the second protrusion 1024 of the second structural member 1020. In this way, engagement of the first mechanical deformation 3251 with the first engagement member 3220 and engagement of the second mechanical deformation 3261 with the second engagement member 3230 can fix the first structural member 1010 relative to the second structural member 1020.
Referring to FIG. 15, in yet another alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 3300, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in FIG. 10). A mechanical fastening system 3310 couples first structural member 1010 with second structural member 1020. The mechanical fastening system 3310 includes a first engagement member 3320, a second engagement member 3330, and a shaft 3340. The shaft 3340 extends through the through bore 1030 and includes a first end 3350 and a second end 3360. The first end portion 3350 may be mechanically deformed such that the mechanically deformed portion 3351 extends from the shaft 3340 and abuttingly engages the first engagement member 3320. The second end 3360 may include a flange 3370 in abutting engagement with the second engagement member 3330.
Thus, mechanical deformation 3351 can cause first engagement member 3320 to engage with both first projection 1013 of first structural member 1010 and first projection 1023 of second structural member 1020. Further, by positioning the flange 3370 against the second engagement member 3330, the engagement between the mechanical deformation 3351 and the first engagement member 3320 can urge the second engagement member 3330 into engagement with both the second protrusion 1014 of the first structural member 1010 and the second protrusion 1024 of the second structural member 1020. In this way, engagement of the mechanical deformation 3351 with the first engagement member 3320 may secure the first structural member 1010 relative to the second structural member 1020.
Referring to FIG. 16, in another alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 4100, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in FIG. 10). A mechanical fastening system 4110 couples the first structural member 1010 with the second structural member 1020. The mechanical fastening system 4110 includes a first engagement member 4120, a second engagement member 4130, and a shaft 4140. The shaft 4140 extends through the through-hole 1030 and includes a first end 4150 and a second end 4160. First end 4150 may be mechanically deformed such that a mechanical deformation is created that extends from shaft 4140 and engages both first protrusion 1013 of first structural member 1010 and first protrusion 1023 of second structural member 1020. This mechanical deformation portion becomes the first engaging member 4120. The second end 4160 may be integral with the second engagement member 4130 (e.g., the second engagement member 4130 and the second end 4160 of the shaft 4140 may be formed as a single unitary body).
Thus, by mechanically deforming first end 4150, first engagement member 4120 may be created, thereby urging first engagement member 4120 into engagement with both first protrusion 1013 of first structural member 1010 and first protrusion 1023 of second structural member 1020. Further, mechanically deforming the first end 4150 may urge the second engagement member 4130 into engagement with both the second protrusion 1014 of the first structural member 1010 and the second protrusion 1024 of the second structural member 1020. In this manner, mechanically deforming first end 4150 may secure first structural member 1010 relative to second structural member 1020.
Referring to fig. 17, in another alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 4200, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in fig. 10). The mechanical fastening system 4210 couples the first structural member 1010 with the second structural member 1020. The mechanical fastening system 4210 includes a first engagement member 4220, a second engagement member 4230, and a shaft 4240. A shaft 4240 extends through the through bore 1030 and includes a first end 4250 and a second end 4260. The first end portion 4250 is mechanically deformable such that a first mechanical deformation is created extending from the shaft 4240 and engaging both the first protrusion 1013 of the first structural member 1010 and the first protrusion 1023 of the second structural member 1020. This first mechanical deformation portion becomes the first engagement member 4220. The second end 4260 is also mechanically deformable such that a second mechanical deformation is created extending from the shaft 4240 and engaging both the second lobe 1014 of the first structural member 1010 and the second lobe 1024 of the second structural member 1020. This second mechanical deformation portion becomes the second engagement member 4230.
Thus, by mechanically deforming first end 4250, first engagement member 4220 may be created, thereby causing first engagement member 4220 to engage both first protrusion 1013 of first structural member 1010 and first protrusion 1023 of second structural member 1020. Further, by mechanically deforming the second end 4260, the second engagement member 4230 may be created, thereby urging the second engagement member 4230 into engagement with both the second protrusions 1014, 1024 of the first and second structural members 1010, 1020. In this way, mechanically deforming the first and second end portions 4250, 4260 may secure the first structural member 1010 relative to the second structural member 1020.
Referring to fig. 18, in yet another alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 4300, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in fig. 10). The mechanical fastening system 4310 couples the first structural member 1010 with the second structural member 1020. The mechanical fastening system 4310 includes a first engagement member 4320, a second engagement member 4330, and a shaft 4340. The shaft 4340 extends through the through bore 1030 and includes a first end 4350 and a second end 4360. First end 4350 may be mechanically deformed such that a mechanical deformation is created that extends from shaft 4340 and engages both first projection 1013 of first structural member 1010 and first projection 1023 of second structural member 1020. This mechanical deformation portion becomes the first engagement member 4320. Second end 4360 may include a flange 4370 in abutting engagement with second engagement member 4330.
Thus, by mechanically deforming first end 4350, first engagement member 4320 can be created, thereby causing first engagement member 4320 to engage both first projection 1013 of first structural member 1010 and first projection 1023 of second structural member 1020. Further, mechanically deforming first end 4350 by positioning flange 4370 against second engagement member 4330 can cause second engagement member 4330 to engage both second projection 1014 of first structural member 1010 and second projection 1024 of second structural member 1020. In this way, mechanically deforming first end 4350 may secure first structural member 1010 relative to second structural member 1020.
Referring to the examples described in fig. 13-18, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various methods may be used to create the mechanical deformation, including cold forging, hot forging, indentation, deep drawing, and shearing. Thus, the mechanical deformation may be swaging. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that other methods of creating mechanical deformation may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
Referring to fig. 19, 20, and 21, in an alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 5100, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in fig. 10). A mechanical fastening system 5110 couples the first structural member 1010 with the second structural member 1020. The mechanical fastening system 5110 includes a first engagement member 5120, a second engagement member 5130, and a shaft 5140. The shaft 5140 extends through the through-hole 1030 and includes a first end 5150 and a second end 5160. The first engagement member 5120 can be connected to the first end 5150 of the shaft 5140. This connection 5121 can be at least one of engagement, bonding, and interference fit. The second end 5160 can be integral with the second engagement member 5130 (e.g., the second engagement member 5130 and the second end 5160 of the shaft 5140 can be formed as a single unitary body).
Thus, first structural member 1010 and second structural member 1020 may be positioned between first engagement member 5120 and second engagement member 5130 such that first engagement member 5120 engages both first projection 1013 of first structural member 1010 and first projection 1023 of second structural member 1020 and second engagement member 5130 engages both second projection 1014 of first structural member 1010 and second projection 1024 of second structural member 1020. Once positioned, the first engagement member 5120 can be connected to the first end 5150 such that the position of the first engagement member 5120 is fixed along the shaft 5140. In this way, the connection 5121 between the first engagement member 5120 and the first end 5150 can secure the first structural member 1010 relative to the second structural member 1020.
Referring to fig. 22, in another alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 5200, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in fig. 10). The mechanical fastening system 5210 couples the first structural member 1010 with the second structural member 1020. The mechanical fastening system 5210 comprises a first engagement member 5220, a second engagement member 5230, and a shaft 5240. The shaft 5240 extends through the through-hole 1030 and includes a first end 5250 and a second end 5260. The first engagement member 5220 can be connected to the first end 5250 of the shaft 5240. This connection 5221 can be at least one of a bond, an adhesive, and an interference fit. The second engagement member 5230 can be connected to the second end 5260 of the shaft 5240. This second connection 5231 can be at least one of a bond, an adhesive, and an interference fit.
Thus, the first and second structural members 1010, 1020 may be positioned between the first and second engagement members 5220, 5230 such that the first engagement member 5220 engages both the first projection 1013 of the first structural member 1010 and the first projection 1023 of the second structural member 1020, and the second engagement member 5230 engages both the second projection 1014 of the first structural member 1010 and the second projection 1024 of the second structural member 1020. Once positioned, the first engagement member 5220 can be connected to the first end 5250 and the second engagement member 5230 can be connected to the second end 5260 such that the positions of the first and second engagement members 5220, 5230 are fixed along the shaft 5240. As such, the connections 5221, 5231 between the first and second engagement members 5220, 5230 and the first and second ends 5250, 5260 can secure the first structural member 1010 relative to the second structural member 1020.
Referring to fig. 23, in yet another alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 5300, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in fig. 10). The mechanical fastening system 5310 couples the first structural member 1010 with the second structural member 1020. The mechanical fastening system 5310 includes a first engagement member 5320, a second engagement member 5330, and a shaft 5340. Shaft 5340 extends through bore 1030 and includes a first end 5350 and a second end 5360. The first engagement member 5320 can be connected to a first end 5350 of the shaft 5340. This connection 5321 can be at least one of a joint, an adhesive, and an interference fit. The second end 5360 can include a flange 5370 in abutting engagement with the second engagement member 5330.
Thus, by positioning flange 5370 against second engagement member 5330, first and second structural members 1010, 1020 can be positioned between first and second engagement members 5320, 5330 such that first engagement member 5320 engages both first projection 1013 of first structural member 1010 and first projection 1023 of second structural member 1020, and second engagement member 5330 engages both second projection 1014 of first structural member 1010 and second projection 1024 of second structural member 1020. Once positioned, the first engagement member 5320 can be connected to the first end 5350 such that the position of the first engagement member 5320 is fixed along the shaft 5340. In this way, the connection 5321 between the first engagement member 5320 and the first end 5350 can secure the first structural member 1010 relative to the second structural member 1020.
With reference to the example disclosed in fig. 19-23, one skilled in the art will appreciate that there are several suitable methods for connecting the engagement member to the shaft. For example, the bonding may be produced by welding, braising, welding, localized heat staking, and/or vibrational melting. The bond may be created using a resin, an acrylic and/or an epoxy. The interference fit may be created by a thermal interference fit and/or a frictional interference fit. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that other methods for connecting may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
Referring to fig. 24 and 25, in an alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 6100, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in fig. 10). The mechanical fastening system 6110 couples the first structural member 1010 with the second structural member 1020. The mechanical fastening system 6110 includes a first engagement member 6120, a second engagement member 6130, and a shaft 6140. The shaft 6140 extends through the through-hole 1030 and includes a first end 6150 and a second end 6160. The first end 6150 can include a projection 6151 that extends radially outward and abuttingly engages the first engagement member 6120. This projection 6151 may also be defined by a plurality of discrete connecting fingers 6152. The second end 6160 can be integral with the second coupling member 6130 (e.g., the second coupling member 6130 and the second end 6160 of the shaft 6140 can be formed as a single unitary body).
Thus, the first coupling member 6120 can be moved along the shaft 6140 toward the second coupling member 6130 such that it mechanically deforms the connecting fingers 6152 of the projections 6151 inwardly. Thus, once the first engagement member 6120 has moved past the outermost radial point of the projection 6151, the connecting finger 6152 can be deformed back toward its original configuration such that the projection 6151 abuttingly engages the first engagement member 6120 and urges it into engagement with both the first projection 1013 of the first structural member 1010 and the first projection 1023 of the second structural member 1020 (e.g., the first engagement member 6120 "clicks" into place). Further, abutting engagement of the projection 6151 with the first engagement member 6120 can urge the second engagement member 6130 into engagement with both the second projection 1014 of the first structural member 1010 and the second projection 1024 of the second structural member 1020. In this way, the first structural member 1010 can be secured relative to the second structural member 1020 by "clicking" the first engagement member 6120 into place.
Referring to fig. 26, 27 and 28, in an alternative example, the disclosed structural assembly, generally designated 7100, includes a first structural member 1010 and a second structural member 1020 (shown in fig. 10). The mechanical fastening system 7110 couples the first structural member 1010 with the second structural member 1020. The mechanical fastening system 7110 includes a first engagement member 7120, a second engagement member 7130, a shaft 7140, and a plunger 7190. The shaft 7140 extends through the through-hole 1030 and includes a first end 7150 and a second end 7160. The first end 7150 can be integral with the first engagement member 7120 (e.g., the first engagement member 7120 and the first end 7150 of the shaft 7140 can be formed as a single unitary body). The first engagement member 7120 may also extend radially outward from the shaft 7140 and be defined by a plurality of discrete connecting fingers 7121. The second end 7160 can be integral with the second engagement member 7130 (e.g., the second engagement member 7130 and the second end 7160 of the shaft 7140 can be formed as a single unitary body). Further, the shaft 7140 may define a through-hole 7180 extending along a length of the shaft 7140. The plunger 7190 may be at least partially received by the through hole 7180 and may include a radially outwardly extending protrusion 7191.
Thus, by inserting the plunger 7190 into the through-hole 7180 of the shaft, the projection 7191 of the plunger 7190 can abuttingly engage the first engagement member 7120, thereby urging the first engagement member 7120 into engagement with both the first projection 1013 of the first structural member 1010 and the first projection 1023 of the second structural member 1020. Further, abutting engagement of the projection 7191 of the plunger 7190 with the first engagement member 7120 may cause the second engagement member 7130 to engage both the second projection 1014 of the first structural member 1010 and the second projection 1024 of the second structural member 1020. In this way, insertion of the plunger 7190 into the through-hole 7180 of the shaft may secure the first structural member 1010 relative to the second structural member 1020.
Optionally, the plunger 7190 may also include a flange 7192 that nests contiguously with the second engagement member 7130.
The examples disclosed in fig. 10-28 generally describe mechanical fastening systems having a circular cross-sectional shape. However, the shape of the mechanical fastening system need only substantially correspond to the shape of the structural member that the mechanical fastening system is securing, which may be non-circular. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that mechanical fastening systems having other non-circular cross-sectional shapes may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
Examples of the present disclosure may be described in the context of aircraft manufacturing and service method 400 as shown in FIG. 29 and aircraft 402 as shown in FIG. 30. During pre-production, aircraft manufacturing and service method 400 may include specification and design 404 of aircraft 402 and material procurement 406. During production, component/subassembly manufacturing 408 and system integration 410 of the aircraft 402 occurs. The aircraft 402 may then go through certification and delivery 412 to be placed in service 414. While in use by the customer, the aircraft 402 is scheduled for routine maintenance and repair 416, which may also include modification, reconfiguration, refurbishment, and so on.
Each of the processes of method 400 may be performed or carried out by a system integrator, a third party, and/or an operator (e.g., a customer). For purposes of this description, a system integrator may include, but is not limited to, any number of aircraft manufacturers and major system subcontractors; the third party may include, but is not limited to, any number of suppliers, subcontractors, and suppliers; and the operator may be an airline, leasing company, military entity, service organization, and so forth.
As shown in fig. 30, the aircraft 402 produced by the example method 400 may include an airframe 418 with a plurality of systems 420 and an interior 422. Examples of the plurality of systems 420 may include one or more of a propulsion system 424, an electrical system 426, a hydraulic system 428, and an environmental system 430. Any number of other systems may be included.
The disclosed mechanical fastening system and related structural assembly and methods may be used during any one or more stages of aircraft manufacturing and service method 400. As one example, components or subassemblies corresponding to component/subassembly manufacturing 408, system integration 410, and/or maintenance and repair 416 may be fabricated or manufactured using the disclosed mechanical fastening systems and related structural assemblies and methods. As another example, the airframe 418 may be constructed using the disclosed mechanical fastening system and related structural components and methods. Moreover, one or more apparatus instantiations, method instantiations, or combinations thereof may be used during component/subassembly manufacturing 408 and/or system integration 410, for example, by substantially expediting assembly of the aircraft 402 or reducing the cost of the aircraft 402, such as the fuselage 418 and/or interior 422. Similarly, one or more system instances, method instances, or a combination thereof may be used while the aircraft 402 is in service (e.g., and without limitation, to maintenance and repair 416).
Further, the present disclosure includes examples according to the following clauses:
1. a structural assembly, comprising:
a first structural member including a first side and a second side opposite the first side and defining a first partial hole extending from the first side to the second side;
a second structural member including a first side and a second side opposite the first side and defining a second partial hole extending from the first side to the second side, wherein the second partial hole is aligned with the first partial hole along a hole axis to define a through hole;
a shaft extending through the through bore, wherein the shaft includes a first end and a second end longitudinally opposite the first end;
a first engagement member proximate the first end of the shaft, wherein the first engagement member engages both the first and second structural members; and
a second engagement member proximate the second end of the shaft, wherein the second engagement member engages both the first structural member and the second structural member.
2. A structural assembly, comprising:
a first structural member including a first side and a second side opposite the first side and defining a first partial hole extending from the first side to the second side, the first structural member further including a first projection projecting on the first side of the first structural member proximate a perimeter of the first partial hole and a second projection projecting on the second side of the first structural member proximate the perimeter of the first partial hole;
a second structural member including a first side and a second side opposite the first side and defining a second partial hole extending from the first side to the second side, the second structural member further including a first projection projecting on the first side of the second structural member proximate a perimeter of the second partial hole and a second projection projecting on the second side of the second structural member proximate the perimeter of the second partial hole, wherein the second partial hole is aligned with the first partial hole along a hole axis to define a through hole;
a shaft extending through the through bore, wherein the shaft includes a first end and a second end longitudinally opposite the first end;
a first engagement member proximate the first end, wherein the first engagement member engages both the first projection of the first structural member and the first projection of the second structural member; and
a second engagement member proximate the second end, wherein the second engagement member engages both the second projection of the first structural member and the second projection of the second structural member.
3. The structural assembly of clause 2, wherein the first engagement member is threadedly engaged with the first end of the shaft.
4. The structural assembly of clauses 2 or 3, wherein the second engagement member is threadedly engaged with the second end of the shaft.
5. The structural assembly of clause 2, wherein the first end of the shaft includes a mechanical deformation in abutting engagement with the first engagement member.
6. The structural assembly of clauses 2 or 5, wherein the second end of the shaft includes a mechanical deformation in abutting engagement with the second engagement member.
7. The structural assembly of clause 2, wherein the first engagement member includes a mechanical deformation extending from the first end of the shaft.
8. The structural assembly of clause 7, wherein the second engagement member includes a mechanical deformation extending from the second end of the shaft.
9. The structural assembly of clause 2, wherein the first engagement member is connected to the first end of the shaft.
10. The structural assembly of clause 9, wherein the connection comprises at least one of a joint, a bond, and an interference fit.
11. The structural assembly of clauses 2 or 9, wherein the second joining member is connected to the second end.
12. The structural assembly of clause 2, wherein the shaft includes a flange in abutting engagement with the first engagement member.
13. The structural assembly of clause 2, wherein the first engagement member is integral with the shaft.
14. The structural assembly of clause 2, wherein the shaft defines a through-hole extending along a length of the shaft.
15. The structural assembly of clause 2, wherein the shaft further comprises a projection extending radially outward from the first end of the shaft, wherein the projection is in abutting engagement with the first engagement member.
16. The structural assembly of clause 15, wherein the projection is defined by a plurality of discontinuous connecting fingers.
17. The structural assembly of clause 2, wherein the first engagement member is integral with the first end of the shaft and projects radially outward from the shaft.
18. The structural assembly of clause 17, wherein the first engagement member is defined by a plurality of discontinuous connecting fingers.
19. The structural assembly of clauses 17 or 18, wherein:
the shaft defines a through-hole extending along a length of the shaft, and
the structural assembly also includes a plunger at least partially received in the through bore of the shaft.
20. The structural assembly of clause 19, wherein the plunger includes a projection extending radially outward from the plunger, and wherein the projection pushes the first engagement member radially outward.
The disclosed mechanical fastening system and related structural components and methods are described in the context of an aircraft; however, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the disclosed mechanical fastening system and related structural components and methods may be used in a variety of applications. For example, the disclosed mechanical fastening systems and related structural assemblies and methods may be implemented in various types of vehicles, such as helicopters, passenger ships, automobiles, and so forth.
While various examples of the disclosed mechanical fastening systems and related structural assemblies and methods have been shown and described, modifications may occur to those skilled in the art upon reading the specification. This application includes such modifications and is limited only by the scope of the claims.
