Threaded Sleeve for Assembling with Heat Input in a Component Manufactured by Fdm Process

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention concerns a specially designed threaded sleeve for use in components manufactured by Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), a 3D printing process. The threaded sleeve features a groove along its length and a specially shaped self-tapping external thread, making it possible to insert the sleeve into the printed part using heat. This heat causes the plastic material of the component to partially melt and flow around the sleeve, resulting in a strong and durable embedded thread. The system includes not only the sleeve but also a guiding and heating apparatus and an optimized method for installing the sleeve into FDM components.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Assembling components and products made from FDM 3D printing, where durable threads are needed for bolted attachments.
• Producing prototypes or end-use parts in industries like automotive, aerospace, or consumer goods that require reliable screw connections in 3D printed plastic components.
• Repairing or retrofitting FDM-printed parts that need additional threaded connections after production.
• Automated assembly lines for mass production of FDM-based products that incorporate embedded metal threads for superior mechanical strength.
• Electronics enclosures manufactured by FDM, providing robust, repeatable threads for mounting PCBs, connectors, or other hardware.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly increases the strength and durability of screw connections in FDM 3D printed plastic parts, mitigating the typical weakness of printed threads.
• Enables post-processing insertion of high-quality, reusable threads without damaging the printed structure, overcoming limitations of direct screwing or pre-embedding nuts.
• Reduces risk of filament layer separation or damage during installation, as the heated sleeve gently melts and fuses with the surrounding material.
• Provides repeatable and reliable installation results, also allowing for automation and process monitoring.
• Enables design freedom—threaded sleeves can be inserted where needed after printing, not just during the component design phase.
• Broad material compatibility, with sleeves made from steel, aluminum, copper, etc., allowing selection based on strength, weight, or conductivity requirements.
• Improves the load-bearing and reusability characteristics of FDM-printed components, extending their application into more demanding mechanical roles.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a threaded sleeve for assembling with heat input in a component manufactured by FDM process. The threaded sleeve comprises a groove along its longitudinal axis. Further, the outwardly facing surface of the threaded sleeve comprises a self-tapping thread which is divided into two sections along the threaded sleeve's longitudinal axis. The first section comprises a constant pitch diameter and the second area comprises a pitch diameter decreasing along its longitudinal axis. The inwardly facing surface of the threaded sleeve comprises a metric thread. Furthermore, the invention relates to a KIT, a system and a method for assembling with heat input the above-mentioned threaded sleeve in a component manufactured by FDM process.