Curved Clip Connector for Motor Vehicle Lock Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automotive clip connection elements for motor vehicle locks, particularly door locks, face issues during assembly and operation due to material weakening and deformation of plastic components, leading to potential breakage and disruption of the connection between levers.
Innovation Solution
A motor vehicle clip connection element featuring bulbous expansion wings with a support surface, allowing for low-force assembly and preventing material weakness by using a large lever arm for deformation, and an arcuate support surface to counteract tensile forces and prevent buckling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the expanding wings are made of plastic and deformed during assembly to engage behind the expanding mandrel, then the assembly process is simplified and quick, but the plastic material weakens and becomes embrittled at the base of the expanding wing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the expanding wing by introducing a convex cross-section with a support surface positioned at a specific distance from the expanding mandrel. This parameter modification allows the wing to deform during assembly while the support surface prevents excessive deformation that would cause material weakening, thus resolving the contradiction between easy assembly and material strength preservation.
Solution Approach 2:
The expanding wing is designed with a convex cross-section (curved geometry) instead of a straight profile. This curvature allows the wing to naturally distribute stresses during deformation and provides a support surface that prevents localized stress concentration at the base, thereby maintaining material strength while enabling simple assembly.
2Device complexity
If straight spreading wings are used in the clip connection element, then the structure is simple, but the wings are subjected to stress during operation and may deform or buckle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces straight spreading wings with wings having a convex cross-section. This curved geometry provides inherent structural stability and resistance to buckling under operational loads, while the support surface prevents excessive deformation. The curved design maintains relative structural simplicity while significantly improving reliability.
3Reliability
If the expanding wings are deformed beyond their elastic range during assembly, then the wings engage securely behind the expanding mandrel, but the plastic material becomes embrittled and weakens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the geometric parameters of the expanding wing by positioning a support surface at a specific distance from the expanding mandrel. This parameter change ensures that during assembly, the wing deforms only within its elastic range by resting on the support surface, achieving secure engagement without exceeding the material's elastic limit and causing embrittlement.
Solution Approach 2:
The support surface acts as a pre-positioned cushioning element that prevents the expanding wing from deforming beyond its elastic range during assembly. By providing this protective support beforehand, the patent ensures secure engagement while preventing material weakening that would occur with excessive deformation.
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
Ensures damage-free assembly and operation by reducing material weakness and preventing buckling, allowing for simple and secure coupling of components with minimal force requirements.
Implementation Method 1
at least two expanding wings (4) which engage behind the expanding mandrel (3) in the assembly state in a snapping manner
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a motor vehicle clip connection element, in particular a clip connection element for coupling components (1, 2) of a motor vehicle lock, preferably a motor vehicle door lock. The connection element comprises an expanding mandrel (3) and at least two expanding tabs (4) which latchingly engage behind the expanding mandrel (3) when assembled. According to the invention, the expanding tabs (4) have a curved cross-section and are slightly spaced apart from a support surface (5).