Clip Mount Assembly for Tool-Free Secure Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mount assembly designs often require additional assembly operations and tools, such as nuts and bolts, which can complicate the connection process with mating components.
Innovation Solution
A mount assembly comprising a core, an elastomeric member, and a clip with support members and clip portions that connect the assembly to a mating component without the need for separate fasteners, utilizing a clip configuration that includes a flange, base, and protrusions to securely latch onto the component.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate fasteners such as nuts and bolts are used to connect mount assemblies to mating components, then reliable connection is achieved, but assembly complexity and the need for additional tools increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fastening function directly into the mount assembly structure itself. The mount assembly includes integrated features such as tabs, slots, and engagement protrusions that perform both the mounting and fastening functions in a single unified component, eliminating the need for separate nuts and bolts while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The mount assembly is designed with self-aligning and self-fastening features. The integrated tabs and slots automatically guide the mount assembly into proper alignment with the mating component, and the engagement features automatically secure the connection without requiring external tools or additional fastening operations
2Reliability
If separate fasteners such as nuts and bolts are used to connect mount assemblies, then secure connection is achieved, but the number of assembly operations and tools required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening function is merged into the mount assembly structure itself through integrated tabs, slots, and engagement protrusions. This consolidation reduces the total number of discrete components and assembly steps, allowing the mount assembly to be installed in a single operation without requiring separate fastening actions or additional tools
Solution Approach 2:
The mount assembly is pre-configured with engagement features that automatically align and engage with the mating component during installation. The tabs and slots are designed to guide the assembly process, ensuring proper positioning and secure connection are achieved simultaneously in the initial installation step, eliminating the need for subsequent fastening operations
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
Enables secure connection of the mount assembly to a mating component without tools or fasteners, simplifying the assembly process and reducing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric member (14) connected to the core
Implementation Method 2
an elastomeric member (14) connected to the core
Data Source
AI summary
A mount assembly includes a core, an elastomeric member connected to the core, and a clip connected to the elastomeric member. In embodiments, the clip may be configured to connect the mount assembly to a mating component. Embodiments of a clip may include a plurality of support members and a plurality of clip portions. A clip for a mount assembly may include a flange, a base, a plurality of support members extending in an axial direction between the flange and the base, and a plurality of clip portions extending from the base toward and short of the flange.