Bend-Away Bracket for Quick Assembly Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brackets require significant time and effort to install and uninstall, especially in confined spaces like power module enclosures, due to limited access and the need to completely undo bolts, leading to inefficient and cumbersome removal processes.
Innovation Solution
A bracket assembly with L-shaped brackets that can be easily bent using a tool to release the assembly from its installed position, featuring holes for fasteners and a nail feature for secure attachment, allowing for quick bolting and unbolting without loose parts or deep reaching requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional bolts are used to secure an assembly to an enclosure, then the assembly is firmly attached, but the removal process becomes time-consuming and difficult due to limited space and poor accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket transitions from a static bolted connection to a dynamic spring-loaded connection. The spring element allows the bracket to flex and deform elastically, enabling quick release by simply bending the bracket away from its engaged position, thereby dramatically reducing removal time while maintaining secure attachment during operation
2Strength
If traditional bolts are used to secure an assembly, then the connection is strong, but the operation becomes complex and difficult due to multiple turns and tool manipulation in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the fastening function from the bracket itself, eliminating the need for separate bolts and nuts. The bracket incorporates an integrated spring-loaded engagement mechanism with a nail feature that directly engages with holes in the assembly, providing strong connection while simplifying the operation to a single bending motion instead of multiple bolt turns
3Reliability
If brackets with multiple parts are used, then the attachment is secure, but the device complexity increases with multiple components to assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single integrated bracket component. The bracket combines the mounting function, the fastening function, and the release mechanism into one piece, eliminating the need for separate bolts, nuts, and multiple bracket parts, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining secure attachment
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
Facilitates faster and easier removal of assemblies by allowing half a turn of the screwdriver per bracket, eliminating the need for deep reaching and minimizing space requirements, reducing the time and effort needed for installation and uninstallation.
Implementation Method 1
The spring element has a first end that is attached to the bracket and a second end that forms an engagement feature. When the bracket is bent, the spring element compresses and pushes the engagement feature into the hole.
Implementation Method 2
The bracket may have an opening that is used to insert a tool like a screw-driver and bend or deform the bracket which in turn releases the assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket comprises a first bracket configured to hold-down an assembly in place and release the assembly when the assembly is to be removed. The assembly has first and/or second holes. The first bracket includes a first arm and a second arm. The first arm has a first major flat surface with a first hole that is configured to receive a first fastener. The first arm has a first end and a second end. The second arm is coupled to the second end of the first arm. The second arm has a first opening that is configured to receive a tool to bend the second arm for deforming the first bracket in a way that releases the assembly. The second arm has a second major flat surface disposed transverse to the first major flat surface of the first arm. The second arm has a first end and a second end. The second end of the second arm has a first nail feature to be inserted into one of the first and/or second holes of the assembly to hold-down the assembly in place.