Covering New Ground with Intelligent Fasteners

Using intelligent fasteners presents several benefits for machine design and product development. A new intelligent fastener described in this article uses interconnects, a power supply, a controller, and a remote control transponder which gives users new tools to develop their products. The fastening mechanisms could be used as latches for cabinets, panel access, or a seat-anchor for aerospace. However, what makes this product truly unique is the use of electronically controlled shape-memory alloys to engage and disengage the fastening mechanism. This allows the fasteners to be built smaller and thus be less intrusive to the products in which they are installed. This is good news for companies developing products that lack the access needed to install traditional fasteners. Also, these intelligent fasteners are reversible making disassembly easy for repairs, revisions, or recycling. Another feature is that the operating system is compatible with many plant-wide factory automation systems. Potential applications are in the aerospace, industrial, appliance, and automotive fields.  Read the full article at Design News.

Find out about McClellan's machine design services.