ABSTRACT
The simplest things are also the most extraordinary things, and only the wise can see them.
Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist
This chapter focuses on fasteners and connections. Since the manufacture of intricate products often requires assembly of components, engineers are thus confronted with the task of fastening various members together. A number of options exist, including threaded fasteners, rivets, welds, and adhesive joints. Each of these types is considered in this chapter. The mechanics of threaded fasteners are discussed, and applied to the design of bolted joints. Common design considerations for welds and rivets are presented. Welding is a common method of achieving permanent junctions, and takes many forms. The chapter discusses analysis of welding processes that produce beads or weld lines, spot welds, or area welds. Brazing, soldering, and adhesive bonding are discussed, and these processes are analyzed in the same fashion as welding. The chapter closes with a discussion of integrated snap fasteners, crimping, and compound fastening methods.
