Compact Spring Unit for Hinge Latch Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of spring-biased safety catches in hinge systems is complex and time-consuming due to the small size of tension springs, making it difficult to operate within confined spaces, leading to slow and ineffective assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A compact spring unit comprising a spring connected between two moveable spring support elements, with flexible latching means and a spring tunnel for axial stability, allowing for easier assembly and integration with latch devices, providing a spring force to maintain the latch device in its latching position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If tension springs are used to bias the safety catch, then the spring force can be provided, but the assembly becomes complex and time-consuming due to the small size of the springs and confined space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the spring, first support element, and second support element into a single integrated spring unit. The first support element and second support element are moveably connected to form a compact assembly that provides spring force without requiring separate tension spring installation between two distant connection points. This integration simplifies the overall device structure and reduces assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is nested within the moveably connected support elements, creating a compact spring unit that fits within the confined space of the hinge system. The first support element and second support element enclose the spring, allowing the entire spring mechanism to be installed as a single compact unit rather than requiring space for a stretched tension spring.
2Force
If tension springs are used to bias the safety catch, then the spring force can be provided, but the assembly process becomes slow and ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the spring and support elements into a pre-assembled spring unit, the installation process is streamlined to a single unit insertion rather than multiple separate steps of stretching and latching a tension spring. This significantly increases assembly speed and effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring unit is prepared in advance with the spring already connected to the support elements in the correct configuration. This preliminary assembly allows the installer to simply insert the complete unit into the hinge system without performing complex on-site assembly operations, thereby increasing productivity.
3Volume of moving object
If the spring is small in size, then it can fit in the confined space, but it becomes difficult to operate with the human hand
Solution Approach 1:
The small spring is nested within the support elements, which provide a larger external dimension that is easier to handle. The support elements act as handles or gripping surfaces, making the compact spring unit manageable despite the small size of the spring itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The support elements serve as intermediaries between the human hand and the small spring. Instead of directly manipulating the difficult-to-handle small spring, the installer manipulates the larger support elements that enclose the spring, making the assembly process easier while still achieving the same compact installation.
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
The compact spring unit simplifies the assembly process, enhances operational efficiency, and reduces costs by providing a reliable spring force mechanism within a compact design, facilitating quicker and more effective assembly of safety catches in hinge systems.
Implementation Method 1
A compact spring unit including a spring, a first spring support element, a second spring support element... configured to compress the spring when moved against each other
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
The invention relates to a compact spring unit for providing a spring force to a latch device, also referred to as a safety catch. The invention may be used for, but is not limited to doors or windows. The safety catch is a part of an extendable hinge system. The invention further relates to a method of easily and effectively assembling the latch device.