Ball Socket Securing Clip for Tool-Free Joint Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
The removal of the securing clip from the ball socket unit in existing connecting joint assemblies is complex and requires a special tool, leading to a cumbersome assembly and disassembly process.
Innovation Solution
The securing clip is designed to be held captively on the ball socket unit during removal, ensuring it remains attached even when the ball head is released, simplifying the removal process by allowing the clip to transition between securing and removal positions through geometric and force-based mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the securing clip is completely separated from the ball socket unit during removal, then the ball head can be released, but the complexity of the removal process increases and requires special tools
Solution Approach 1:
The securing clip is designed to remain attached to the ball socket unit during removal, forming a combined removal assembly. The bracket section of the securing clip engages with the ball socket unit such that when force is applied to the bracket section to move the locking tongues out of engagement with the ball head, the entire securing clip and ball socket unit move together as one unit, simplifying the removal process and eliminating the need for special tools
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket section of the securing clip serves as an intermediary element that provides a convenient interface for applying removal force. By engaging the bracket section with the ball socket unit, it mediates the transfer of force to move the locking tongues out of engagement with the ball head, making the removal process easier and more intuitive
2Ease of manufacture
If the securing clip is held captively on the ball socket unit during removal, then the removal process is simplified, but the securing clip must be designed with additional engagement features
Solution Approach 1:
The securing clip is segmented into functional sections: the bracket section for engagement with the ball socket unit, the locking tongues for securing the ball head, and the connection section that links these functions. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket section serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the locking tongues, engages with the ball socket unit to hold the securing clip captively during removal, and provides a interface for applying removal force. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting joint assembly, wherein the connecting joint assembly has a ball pin with a ball head and a ball socket unit, wherein the ball socket unit has a ball socket with a radially inner cavity for receiving the ball head and with a plurality of feedthroughs leading from the outside into the cavity, wherein a securing clip has a bracket section and locking tongues which are connected thereto and, in the mounted state, extend from the bracket section through a respectively assigned one of the feedthroughs into the cavity, wherein the locking tongues engage behind the ball head in the mounted state on its side facing the pin shaft, wherein the securing clip is displaceable from a securing position, in which the securing clip holds the ball head in the ball socket, into a removal position, in which the ball pin is releasable from the ball socket unit.