Airbag Module Clip Spring Rectangular Cross Section
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clip-on devices for airbag modules in motor vehicles require significant effort for assembly and unclipping, and they lack optimal resistance and security due to the interaction of rigid and resilient parts.
Innovation Solution
A clip-on fixing arrangement using a spring with a rectangular cross-section, featuring a clip-in hook and a clip-in plate with bridge pieces and studs to delimit the spring's movement, allowing rotational and bending movements for secure engagement, optimizing resistance and reducing assembly force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a traditional spring with circular cross-section is used in clip-on devices, then the device structure is simple, but the resistance and security are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameter of the spring from a circular cross-section to a rectangular cross-section. This parameter change optimizes the spring's resistance characteristics and structural performance without adding complexity to the overall device design, directly resolving the contradiction between strength and device complexity.
2Reliability
If significant effort is applied for assembly and unclipping operations, then the clip-on mechanism provides secure fixation, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic mechanism where the spring can rotate within the clip-in plate during assembly and unclipping operations. This rotational movement reduces the force required for these operations while maintaining secure fixation, as the rotation allows the spring to engage and disengage more easily from the hook while still providing strong retention during normal use.
3Reliability
If point contact is used between rigid and resilient parts, then the device structure is simple, but the security of clip-on action is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from point contact to surface contact between the spring and the hook by utilizing the rectangular cross-section of the spring. This dimensional change creates a larger contact area that improves clip-on security through distributed pressure and better mechanical engagement, without significantly increasing device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution reduces the force required for assembly, increases resistance against airbag opening, and provides secure surface contact, enhancing the clip-on mechanism's efficiency and security without needing asymmetrical geometries or complex designs.
Implementation Method 1
a spring (27) with two parallel arms for retaining the clip-in hook (13), which allows the fixing operation to be performed by rotating firstly the spring in the plane of the clip-in plate
Implementation Method 2
secondly by bending one of these arms in order to retain the clip-in hook
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
Arrangement for fixing an airbag module in a motor vehicle by means of cooperating members (11, 21) situated therein, the first member (11) comprising a clip-in hook (13) and the second member (21) a clip-in plate (23) with an opening (25), a spring (27) with two parallel arms (29, 29'), first means (41, 41') and second means (51, 51', 51") for delimiting the movement of the spring (27) when actuated by the clip-in hook (13), which allow the fixing operation to be performed by rotating firstly the spring (27) in the plane of the clip-in plate (23), while keeping its two arms (29, 29') parallel, and secondly by bending one of these arms (29) in order to retain the clip-in hook (13).