C-Shaped Retainer Coupling Mechanism for Tool-Free Detachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling mechanisms for supporting elements to frames require the use of hand tools for detachment, which is inconvenient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A coupling mechanism comprising a base member with a C-shaped retainer that allows for rapid detachment of a supporting element from a frame without the need for tools, utilizing a C-shaped retainer that engages with an enlarged leg end of a leg member to secure it in a recess, along with optional deformable and vibration-absorbing washers for protection and even force distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional coupling mechanisms are used to attach supporting elements to frames, then the connection is secure and reliable, but detachment requires hand tools which is time-consuming and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a retainer member with C-shaped opening that can be independently positioned on the leg member, and a base member with surrounding walls that forms a recess. This segmentation allows the retainer to be quickly snap-fit onto the leg member without tools, while the base member provides stable support for the supporting element.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer member acts as an intermediary component between the leg member and the base member. It features a C-shaped opening that receives the leg member and engages with the surrounding wall of the base member, creating a tool-free connection system that mediates between the need for secure attachment and quick detachment.
2Reliability
If the supporting element is firmly secured to the frame, then connection reliability is high, but rapid detachment without tools becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static, permanent connection to a dynamic, reversible connection. The retainer member can be easily positioned onto the leg member and snapped into place, providing reliable connection, but can also be quickly removed by applying simple force to the C-shaped opening, enabling rapid detachment without tools.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring tools to create and break connections, the design inverts the approach by using a C-shaped opening that naturally receives the leg member and can be easily opened for detachment. The connection is established by the natural geometry of the C-shape closing around the leg member, and detachment is achieved by simply opening the C-shape, reversing the traditional tool-dependent approach.
3Ease of manufacture
If the coupling mechanism uses simple geometric shapes like C-shaped retainers, then manufacturing is easier and assembly is faster, but connection strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer member features an asymmetric C-shaped opening that is optimized for both manufacturing and connection strength. The C-shape provides natural structural reinforcement at the engagement points while maintaining manufacturing simplicity. The asymmetric geometry allows the retainer to wrap around the leg member in a way that distributes forces effectively, compensating for the simplicity of the overall shape.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer member is nested within the surrounding wall structure of the base member, creating a layered connection system. The C-shaped retainer receives the leg member, and simultaneously engages with the surrounding wall, creating multiple levels of mechanical interlocking that enhance connection strength while maintaining the simplicity of individual components.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling mechanism is provided for coupling a supporting element to a frame, and includes a base member and a C-shaped retainer. The frame includes a frame body and a leg member that has a leg body extending downwardly from the frame body to terminate at an enlarged leg end. The base member defines therein a recess for the enlarged leg end therein. The supporting element is coupled to a lower major surface of the base wall. The C-shaped retainer extends to be disposed about the leg body, and is configured to be detachably coupled to a surrounding wall of the base member for retaining the enlarged leg end in the recess.