A spring clip mounting jig

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of clamping spring installation jigs, it is related to connector assembly technical field.The jig includes handheld part, push rod part, first spring and second spring.The shell of handheld part is equipped with through first passage;Push rod part is slidably arranged in passage, and it is made of hand push rod and mounting rod that can slide relatively, and mounting rod end is used to sleeve joint clamping spring to be installed.First spring provides the overall reset force of push rod part, and second spring is sleeved between two rods, stores energy and releases when mounting rod is positioned by clamping spring to support clamping spring.Optimal solution includes: tail cap is equipped with threaded connection at the tail of hand push rod;Two rods are equipped with guide disc part;The head of shell is additionally provided with limiting component with adapter part, for matching photovoltaic connector port.The utility model is simple in structure, low in cost, and realizes accurate installation of clamping spring by double spring cooperation, solve the problem of low efficiency of manual installation under small-batch scene.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of connector assembly tools, and in particular to a snap ring mounting fixture. Background Technology

[0002] In the photovoltaic industry, photovoltaic connectors are an indispensable key component of photovoltaic systems. They typically require an internal metal retainer to secure the internal conductive terminals or other components, ensuring connection reliability and long-term stability.

[0003] The installation process of a snap ring requires first squeezing it radially smaller, placing it into the designated groove inside the connector, and then allowing it to regain its elasticity and open, thus securing it firmly in the groove. In mass production, this task is usually accomplished using automated equipment. Such equipment is highly precise and efficient, but it also has drawbacks such as huge investment costs, high maintenance costs, and complex debugging.

[0004] However, in scenarios such as small-batch trial production, sample making, laboratory testing, or rework, the number of retaining rings required is small. Purchasing or using large automated equipment specifically for this purpose would result in significant cost waste and extremely low economic efficiency. Currently, the industry lacks specialized, low-cost installation tools for such small-batch needs, forcing operators to rely on rudimentary tools (such as needle-nose pliers) or even perform installation by hand. This method is not only inefficient and labor-intensive but also highly prone to causing retaining ring deformation, internal scratches on the connector, inaccurate installation positioning, or even complete installation failure, severely impacting product quality and reliability.

[0005] Therefore, the market urgently needs a small-batch snap ring installation fixture that is simple in structure, low in cost, easy to operate, and can guarantee installation quality to solve the above pain points. Utility Model Content

[0006] In view of the above situation, it is necessary to provide a solution to at least one of the above problems, including a retaining ring mounting fixture, comprising:

[0007] Handheld part (1), the handheld part (1) includes an outer shell (10), and a through first channel (11) is formed inside the outer shell (10);

[0008] The push rod part (2) is slidably disposed in the first channel (11). The push rod part (2) includes a push rod (20) and a mounting rod (21). The push rod (20) and the mounting rod (21) can slide relative to each other.

[0009] And a first spring (30) and a second spring (40);

[0010] The push rod (20) is used to be pushed by hand, and the end of the mounting rod (21) is used to temporarily fit and position the snap ring to be installed.

[0011] The first spring (30) is disposed in the first channel (11) to provide a restoring force after installation;

[0012] The second spring (40) is sleeved between the push rod (20) and the mounting rod (21) and is used to store and release energy after the mounting rod (21) is limited by the retaining spring so that the end of the mounting rod (21) expands the retaining spring.

[0013] Preferably, the tail of the push rod (20) is provided with a tail cap (201), and the tail cap (201) is threadedly connected to the push rod (20).

[0014] Preferably, the push rod (20) and the mounting rod (21) are respectively provided with disc portions (50) at opposite positions on their periphery, and the two ends of the second spring (40) respectively abut against the two disc portions (50), and the outer diameter of the disc portion (50) matches the inner diameter of the first channel (11).

[0015] Preferably, it further includes a limiting component (60), one end of which is fixedly connected to the head of the outer shell (10), and the outer side of the limiting component (60) is provided with an adapter (61) for cooperating with the photovoltaic connector port.

[0016] Preferably, the limiting component (60) is threadedly connected to the outer casing (10).

[0017] The advantages compared to existing technologies:

[0018] Simple structure and low cost: This solution adopts a purely mechanical structure, consisting of basic components such as a shell, push rod, and spring, without any pneumatic or electric components, resulting in extremely low manufacturing costs. Compared to automated equipment that can cost tens or even hundreds of thousands of yuan, this solution offers a significant cost advantage, making it particularly suitable for small-batch production and maintenance scenarios, and saving companies substantial equipment investment.

[0019] Intuitive operation and improved efficiency: The operation of this fixture is intuitive and can be used by operators without special training. Installation can be completed in four simple steps: "pinch-fit-push-reset". Compared with the tedious process of using tools such as needle-nose pliers to find, align and spread, the installation efficiency of this solution is improved several times, which greatly shortens the assembly time of a single product.

[0020] Precise installation and reliable quality: This solution cleverly utilizes the synergistic effect of a two-stage push rod and two springs. When the retaining ring reaches the preset groove inside the connector, its axial movement is hindered; at this time, if the push rod (20) is pushed further, the second spring (40) is compressed. When the pushing force overcomes the elastic force of the second spring (40), the mounting rod (21) will generate a small, controlled forward stroke relative to the stationary retaining ring. The conical or stepped structure at its end can instantly expand the retaining ring radially outward, ensuring that the retaining ring "snap" accurately into the groove and is firmly locked in place. This process avoids the problems of uncontrollable force, uneven expansion, or damage to the retaining ring when manually opening it, ensuring that the installation quality of each retaining ring is highly consistent. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the snap ring mounting fixture according to an embodiment of the present utility model.

[0022] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the snap ring mounting fixture according to an embodiment of this utility model.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the snap ring mounting fixture according to an embodiment of the present utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0024] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the following detailed description of the snap ring mounting fixture, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments, is provided. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the utility model and are not intended to limit the scope of the utility model.

[0025] In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more; the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," "front end," "rear end," "head," "tail," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0026] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to mechanical connections or electrical connections; they can refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art will be able to understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0027] Please refer to the embodiments of this utility model. Figures 1 to 3 The present solution provides a retaining ring 70 mounting fixture, which mainly consists of a hand-held part (1) and a sliding push rod part (2).

[0028] The handheld part (1) serves as the base of the fixture and includes a hollow outer shell (10). The outer shell (10) is typically cylindrical or ergonomically designed to fit the human hand, and has a first channel (11) running through its axis inside.

[0029] The push rod (2) is housed within the first channel (11) and can slide freely along its axial direction. The push rod (2) consists of two parts: a push rod (20) and a mounting rod (21). The tail end of the push rod (20) protrudes outside the housing (10) and is the part where the operator applies the pushing force. The head end of the mounting rod (21) extends from the other end of the housing (10) and its end is designed with a specific structure (such as a tapered or small-diameter step) that allows the pinched snap ring 70 to be temporarily fitted onto it. A small range of relative sliding is possible between the push rod (20) and the mounting rod (21).

[0030] The fixture contains two key spring elements. The first spring (30) is located inside the first channel (11), with one end abutting against the step inside the outer casing (10) and the other end abutting against the disc portion (50) of the mounting rod (20). Its main function is to provide a restoring force. When the operator releases the thrust, the first spring (30) will push the entire push rod portion (2) back to its initial position.

[0031] The second spring (40) is key to achieving the core function of this solution; it is fitted between the push rod (20) and the mounting rod (21). When the fixture is in operation, this spring is in a natural or slightly pre-compressed state.

[0032] The working principle is explained in detail below:

[0033] Preparation stage: The operator pinches a snap ring 70 by hand to reduce its inner diameter, and then attaches it to the end of the mounting rod (21).

[0034] Insertion phase: The operator holds the outer casing (10), aligns the head of the mounting rod (21) with the entrance of the photovoltaic connector 80, and then pushes the tail of the push rod (20) with the thumb or palm. At this time, the push rod (20), the second spring (40) and the mounting rod (21) are compressed as a whole by the first spring (30) and move forward, sending the retaining ring 70 fitted on the mounting rod (21) into the photovoltaic connector 80.

[0035] Positioning and triggering stage: When the mounting rod (21) pushes the snap ring 70 to the preset annular groove position inside the connector, the outer side of the snap ring 70 will touch the edge of the groove, and its axial movement will be blocked, causing the mounting rod (21) to stop moving forward.

[0036] During the opening and installation phase: At this point, the operator continues to apply a pushing force to the push rod (20) that has not yet been moved to its final position. Since the mounting rod (21) has stopped, this pushing force directly acts on and compresses the second spring (40) between the push rod (20) and the mounting rod (21). When the second spring (40) is compressed to a certain extent, and its stored elastic energy is sufficient to overcome the static friction between the end of the mounting rod (21) and the retaining ring 70, the mounting rod (21) will produce a momentary, powerful, small forward displacement relative to the stationary retaining ring 70. At this instant, the end structure of the mounting rod (21) will forcibly expand the inner diameter of the retaining ring 70.

[0037] Completion and Reset Phase: The outer diameter of the stretched retaining ring 70 returns to normal, fitting perfectly into and locking into the groove of the photovoltaic connector 80. Simultaneously, due to the increased inner diameter of the retaining ring 70, it automatically disengages from the end of the mounting rod (21). The operator then releases the push rod (20), and under the restoring force of the first spring (30), the entire push rod section (2) (including the push rod (20) and the mounting rod (21)) is pushed back to its original position. Thus, a complete and reliable retaining ring 70 installation operation is completed.

[0038] Example 2

[0039] Please see Figures 1 to 3 As a preferred solution, to improve operational comfort and durability, a cap (201) can be provided at the end of the push rod (20). The contact area of ​​the cap (201) is larger than that of the push rod (20), and it can be made of plastic or soft rubber to facilitate the application of force by the palm. The cap (201) is connected to the push rod (20) by a thread, which ensures a secure connection and facilitates replacement as needed.

[0040] Example 3

[0041] Please see Figures 1 to 3To more precisely define the working space of the second spring (40) and optimize the guidance of the push rod (2) within the first channel (11), a disc (50) can be machined at the front end of the push rod (20) and the rear end of the mounting rod (21), i.e., at their opposite positions. The two ends of the second spring (40) abut precisely between these two discs (50), making the force more even. At the same time, the outer diameter of the disc (50) is precisely matched with the inner diameter of the first channel (11), playing a guiding and stabilizing role like a piston, ensuring that the push rod (2) moves smoothly and steadily in reciprocating motion without shaking or deviating.

[0042] Example 4

[0043] Please see Figures 1 to 3 To further improve installation accuracy and prevent installation failure due to alignment errors, this fixture may also include a limiting component (60). The limiting component (60) is fixed to the head of the housing (10), i.e., the end from which the mounting rod (21) extends. The outer side of the limiting component (60) is provided with an adapter (61), the shape and size of which are perfectly matched to the port of the photovoltaic connector 80 to be installed (e.g., it may be a groove or boss that mates with the connector port).

[0044] Its working principle is as follows: When installing the retaining ring 70, first, the adapter (61) on the limiting component (60) is sleeved or aligned on the port of the photovoltaic connector 80. In this way, the axis of the entire fixture is automatically aligned with the axis of the connector and fixed, preventing angular deviation. On this basis, pushing the push rod ensures that the retaining ring 70 is straight into the connector, fundamentally eliminating jamming or component scratches caused by tilting, and greatly improving the success rate of installation.

[0045] Example 5

[0046] Please see Figures 1 to 3 As a further optimization of Embodiment 4, the limiting component (60) and the housing (10) can be connected by threads. The advantage of this design is that it greatly enhances the versatility of the fixture. When it is necessary to install the retaining ring 70 for different models or specifications of photovoltaic connectors 80, simply unscrew the current limiting component (60) and replace it with a new limiting component that matches the new connector port, without having to replace the entire fixture. This allows one fixture body to be adapted to multiple products, further reducing the overall cost of use.

[0047] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this solution and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this solution. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this solution should be included within the scope of protection of this solution.

Claims

1. A retaining ring mounting fixture, characterized in that, include: Handheld part (1), the handheld part (1) includes an outer shell (10), and a through first channel (11) is formed inside the outer shell (10); The push rod part (2) is slidably disposed in the first channel (11). The push rod part (2) includes a push rod (20) and a mounting rod (21). The push rod (20) and the mounting rod (21) can slide relative to each other. And a first spring (30) and a second spring (40); The push rod (20) is used to be pushed by hand, and the end of the mounting rod (21) is used to temporarily fit and position the snap ring to be installed. The first spring (30) is disposed in the first channel (11) to provide a restoring force after installation; The second spring (40) is sleeved between the push rod (20) and the mounting rod (21) and is used to store and release energy after the mounting rod (21) is limited by the retaining spring so that the end of the mounting rod (21) expands the retaining spring.

2. The retaining ring mounting fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tail of the push rod (20) is provided with a tail cap (201), and the tail cap (201) is threadedly connected to the push rod (20).

3. The retaining ring mounting fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that, The push rod (20) and the mounting rod (21) are respectively provided with disc portions (50) at opposite positions on their periphery. The two ends of the second spring (40) abut against the two disc portions (50) respectively. The outer diameter of the disc portion (50) matches the inner diameter of the first channel (11).

4. The retaining ring mounting fixture according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a limiting component (60), one end of which is fixedly connected to the head of the outer shell (10), and the outer side of the limiting component (60) is provided with an adapter (61) for cooperating with the photovoltaic connector port.

5. The retaining ring mounting fixture according to claim 4, characterized in that, The limiting component (60) is threadedly connected to the outer shell (10).

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