Backlight Module Illuminator Support with Screwless Snap-Fit Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly and detachment of illuminator support apparatuses in traditional backlight modules are inconvenient and costly due to the need for manual screw engagement, which increases manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A backlight module design featuring a frame with through holes that include assembly and location holes, where the illuminator support apparatus has a base and neck configuration allowing secure attachment and detachment without screws, with the neck sliding and rotating to engage with the frame, eliminating the need for screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded screws are used to secure illuminator support apparatuses to the frame, then the connection is reliable and stable, but the assembly and detachment process becomes inconvenient and increases manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the screw fastening mechanism from the system entirely. Instead of using threaded screws to secure illuminator support apparatuses to the frame, the design employs a snap-fit mechanism where the support apparatus directly engages with the frame through complementary geometric features, eliminating the need for separate fastening components and manual screw engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates the fastening function directly into the structure of the illuminator support apparatus and frame. The support apparatus includes engagement features that combine positioning and securing functions in a single integrated component, rather than requiring separate screws and holes, thereby simplifying the assembly process while maintaining connection reliability
2Reliability
If threaded screws are used to secure illuminator support apparatuses, then the connection is secure, but manual labor is required for engagement, increasing manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the screw fastening system entirely, removing the need for manual screw engagement operations. The snap-fit mechanism allows for rapid assembly and disassembly without requiring tools or manual fastening operations, thereby reducing labor costs and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining secure connections
Solution Approach 2:
The illuminator support apparatus is designed with self-aligning and self-securing features that automatically engage with the frame when brought into position. The geometric complementarity between the support apparatus and frame creates a self-locking mechanism that secures components without requiring manual intervention or additional fastening operations
3Ease of operation
If a detachable illuminator support apparatus is implemented, then assembly and detachment become easier, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric geometric features on the illuminator support apparatus and frame that create a simple snap-fit connection. The asymmetric shapes provide directional insertion and automatic positioning, enabling easy detachment while maintaining structural integrity. This approach achieves detachability without requiring complex mechanisms, as the asymmetric geometry itself provides both the connection and release functionality
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary backlight module includes a frame and an illuminator support apparatus. The frame defines a through hole therein, and the through hole includes an assembly hole and a location hole communicating with each other. The illuminator support apparatus includes a base and a neck. The base remains fixed to the frame through the location hole. The neck is configured to be slidable from the assembly hole to the location hole and secured to the frame after the supporting body is snugly rotated. A liquid crystal display employing the backlight module is also provided.