Conical Clip With S-Shaped Fold For Orthogonal Screw Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clips fail to provide a secure fastening solution on non-suitable panel surfaces, with US 2,883,228 offering weak fixation and US 2011/0243685 A1 being unable to adapt to orthogonal screw insertion axes, while also requiring tools for installation and removal.
Innovation Solution
A 'C'-shaped clip with a conical design featuring a threaded cylinder and 'S' and 'U'-shaped ends for flexible insertion and removal, allowing for non-aligned insertion and tightening planes with adjustable angles, enabling tool-free installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the clip is inserted into the orifice of a panel to provide a fastening element, then the fastening means is provided on the panel surface, but the fastening means cannot be positioned on non-suitable panel surfaces or at different planes
Solution Approach 1:
The clip is designed to be inserted at an angle (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the panel surface rather than perpendicular to it. This angular insertion allows the fastening element to be positioned on the panel surface while the clip itself is mounted on a side surface or at a different plane, effectively adding a dimensional aspect to the mounting configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The clip is divided into distinct functional segments: an insertion portion that enters the panel orifice at an angle, a body portion that provides structural support, and a fastening element portion that receives the screw. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while enabling the overall assembly to achieve multi-planar fastening capability
2Ease of operation
If a traditional clip design is used, then the insertion and tightening operations require tools, but the installation and removal process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The clip incorporates a self-clamping mechanism where the clip arms are spring-loaded or elastically biased to automatically clamp onto the panel or support element upon insertion. This self-service feature eliminates the need for tools during both installation and removal operations, as the clip can be simply inserted and later pulled out without requiring any additional devices
Solution Approach 2:
The clip employs dynamic elements such as spring-loaded arms or elastic deformation features that allow the clip to adapt during insertion and automatically secure itself. The dynamic nature of the clamping mechanism enables tool-free operation while maintaining a secure fastening state once installed
3Strength
If the clip provides a secure fastening on side surfaces with non-aligned planes, then the fastening strength is improved, but the insertion angle and orientation requirements increase complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The clip is designed with an asymmetric geometry where the insertion end is configured for angular insertion while the fastening element is positioned to provide optimal clamping force perpendicular to the panel surface. This asymmetric design allows the clip to be inserted at an angle (e.g., 45 degrees) while still achieving strong, perpendicular fastening on the panel surface
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
The invention relates to a clip of the type for inserting into orifices in panels and supports in order to provide an fastening element for the insertion of a screw, said clip having an approximately conical lateral shape, where the orifice for insertion in the panel and the opening corresponding to that of the thread of the screw are not aligned and are located in planes with dihedral angles, for example orthogonal. The base (2) of the clip has a threaded opening created by means of a cylindrical tube (5) with a dome-type entrance (6), and a bend (3) from which a pair (4) of arms extends, the end of said arms meeting in an approximately S-shaped fold (7) finished by a surface (8). A different U-shaped bend (9) extends from the base (2) and is finished by a surface (10), both surfaces (8 and 10) externally abutting against the panel.