Ceiling Fan Quick-Connect Assembly for Tool-Free Switch Housing Service
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Solution Overview
Problem
Servicing the switch housing of a ceiling fan typically requires servicing the entire fan or mechanical removal, which is cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A quick connect assembly is introduced for securing ceiling fan elements, such as the switch housing, to the motor housing, utilizing a first and second mount with a fastener system that allows for easy alignment and locking through a nested rotation mechanism, enabling secure and quick connection and disconnection without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If traditional mechanical removal methods are used to service the switch housing, then the fan can be serviced, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The ceiling fan is divided into separable modules (motor housing, switch housing, canopy, mounting bracket) that can be independently serviced. The quick connect assembly enables the switch housing to be detached from the motor housing without servicing the entire fan, allowing targeted repair of only the problematic component.
Solution Approach 2:
The quick connect assembly incorporates a dynamic locking mechanism with movable fasteners that transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic system allows rapid transformation from a secured assembly to separable components, enabling quick servicing without permanent mechanical fastening.
2Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical removal methods are used to service the switch housing, then the fan can be serviced, but the process requires tools and complex procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The quick connect assembly features self-service characteristics where the fasteners automatically engage and disengage through simple user actions. The resilient fasteners self-align with corresponding holes during assembly, and can be released by simple manual manipulation without requiring external tools or complex procedures.
3Productivity
If traditional mounting methods are used, then components can be secured, but installation time increases and pre-assembly is required
Solution Approach 1:
The quick connect assembly incorporates pre-configured fastening features directly into the mounting structures. The fasteners are pre-positioned on the motor housing and switch housing with alignment features that guide automatic engagement, eliminating the need for pre-assembly operations or complex installation procedures.
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 easy and secure mounting of ceiling fan components, reducing installation time and eliminating the need for pre-assembled parts, thus simplifying servicing and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a fastener carried by the second mount and resiliently biased into the fastener hole
Implementation Method 2
a fastener comprising a spring finger carried by the second outer wall and resiliently biased into the fastener hole
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connect mounting assembly for a ceiling fan. The quick connect mounting assembly includes two releasably attachable mounts that are easily interconnected to mechanically couple elements of a ceiling fan. The quick connect mounting assembly can be used to mount at least two elements of the ceiling fan, such as any two of a mounting bracket, a canopy, a switch housing, a motor housing, a motor with a motor shaft, or a light fixture.