Container Latching Projection for Single-Direction Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing arrangements for attaching containers, such as cooling water expansion tanks, to holding structures are cumbersome and require complex assembly and disassembly processes, involving movements that deviate from the joining direction, leading to inefficiencies and potential assembly errors.
Innovation Solution
The design features a latching projection with a receptacle for a tool facing away from the holding structure, allowing for a single translational movement assembly and automatic latching, eliminating the need for rear access and simplifying the assembly process by integrating the formation and latching projection into a single shaped body, which can be easily positioned with a single joining movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a container is attached to a holding structure using existing arrangements with multiple projections and receptacles, then the container can be securely fixed, but the assembly and disassembly processes become cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The latching connection is segmented into two functional parts: a formation with an undercut edge region that provides the latching geometry, and a latching projection that engages with the recess. This segmentation allows the formation to remain fixed while only the latching projection needs to be actuated for assembly and disassembly, simplifying the process while maintaining secure fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching projection is designed to be movable relative to the formation, allowing it to be flexed or rotated to disengage from the recess during disassembly. This dynamic element enables quick release without requiring complex tools or multiple steps, directly reducing assembly and disassembly time while maintaining reliable connection during operation.
2Reliability
If existing attachment arrangements require movements deviating from the joining direction for assembly, then the container can be secured, but the assembly process becomes complex and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring the container to move in multiple directions or require complex manipulation to engage the latching connection, the design inverts the approach: the latching projection is designed to be actuated in a simple manner (flexed or rotated) while the formation and recess provide the guiding geometry. This ensures the container moves primarily in the joining direction, simplifying assembly operations and reducing errors.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the formation and latching projection are separate components, then the container can be assembled, but the positioning and joining process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The formation and latching projection are merged into a single integrated component on the container. The formation provides the undercut edge region that defines the latching geometry, while the latching projection engages with the recess. This integration eliminates the need to position and join separate elements, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining design flexibility through the unified structure.
4Reliability
If existing arrangements require access to the rear of the holding structure for disassembly, then the connection can be secured, but the disassembly process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The latching projection acts as an intermediary element that can be actuated from the accessible side of the container. By designing the latching mechanism so that the projection can be flexed or rotated from the front, the need to access the rear of the holding structure is eliminated. This maintains secure connection during operation while enabling easy disassembly from the accessible side.
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
This solution significantly simplifies assembly and disassembly, reduces production time, enhances operational safety, and facilitates quality control by allowing a straightforward visual check, while preventing unintended detachment and ensuring secure positioning without additional steps.
Implementation Method 1
the latching projection is elastically deformed in the desired manner and the undercut is thereby eliminated
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The arrangement has a formation unit (4) laterally protruded in a container (2). Edge area of a recess (3) is positioned behind the formation unit by producing translatory motion in adding direction (6). A locking projection is connected with the formation unit to fasten and backup the container in mounting position. The container is moved relative to a halt structure (1) that is blocked against the adding direction. The locking projection comprises a pocket-shaped retainer for providing a tool to transmit lever force. An independent claim is also included for a method for assembling a container to a halt structure.