Double-Layer Sign Assembly for Tool-Free Insert Replacement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sign attachment methods require tools to replace information carriers and often compromise on aesthetics and design complexity.

Innovation Solution

A sign arrangement featuring two plates with a magnet arrangement and an intermediate piece, allowing for tool-free replacement of information carriers without a peripheral frame, using magnetic fastening elements and complementary recesses to secure the assembly to a solid surface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If magnetic attachment methods are used to allow tool-free replacement, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional magnetic components and intermediate pieces

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool-free replacement of information carrierVSAvoidcomplexity of magnetic fastening system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the magnetic fastening function and the positioning function into a single integrated intermediate piece. The intermediate piece simultaneously provides magnetic attachment to the base body and complementary shape matching with the recess in the second plate, eliminating the need for separate magnetic components and positioning features.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The intermediate piece serves multiple functions: it provides magnetic attachment to the base body, ensures precise positioning through complementary shape matching with the recess, and enables tool-free replacement of the information carrier. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed in the system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a peripheral frame is used to secure the information carrier, then reliability of attachment is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to visible frames and complex design features

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachment of information carrierVSAvoidaesthetic appearance of sign assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the securing function from a traditional peripheral frame structure and relocates it to an intermediate piece positioned at the rear of the assembly. This allows the front view to remain clean and frameless while the rear intermediate piece provides secure attachment through magnetic and mechanical engagement with the base body.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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 easy and tool-free replacement of information carriers while maintaining aesthetic appeal and avoiding complex design features, ensuring secure attachment without the need for frames or tools.

Implementation Method 1

A force acts between the ferromagnetic plate and the magnet assembly, thereby holding the complete assembly together

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

A force acts between the ferromagnetic plate and the magnet assembly

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Ferromagnetism

Data Source

PatentEP3079140B1Replaceable sign assembly with double layer
Publication Date: 2018.10.24 XYLO WOLF
  • EP3079140B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3079140B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3079140B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

The invention lies in the technical field of identification signs or sign assemblies. A sign arrangement should be attached to a solid base, an information carrier should be able to be brought in and the information carrier should be replaceable without tools or other aids, using the muscle power of an average user. A double-layer shield arrangement is proposed, with a base (2) and a double-layer shield surface (1; 1a, 1b) made of two parallel plates (1a, 1b), the shield surface resting on the base (2) and over all edges of the base (2) protrudes or protrudes. A magnet holder (12, 13) is arranged on a rear surface of the front plate (1a) of the double-layer sign surface (1). This is done via a raised mold surface (30) of a given thickness (d30), which engages in a non-circular mold opening (40) in the rear panel (1b) when the panels (1a, 1b) are assembled. The non-circular mold opening (40) and the mold surface (30) have an edge contour (30a, 40a) that matches one another. The thickness (d30) of the mold surface (30) is designed in such a way that it engages a little in the non-circular mold opening (40).