Elastic Clip for Spherical Component Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing component connection technologies lack the ability to adjust latching positions based on pull-off force requirements, limiting flexibility and security in connecting components.
Innovation Solution
A clip element with radially elastic latching elements that can assume two distinct locking positions, allowing for varying pull-off forces and enabling pivoting in one position but not the other, utilizing a connecting element with spherical sections and a two-part or one-piece clip design for enhanced stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a clip element is designed with multiple latching positions, then the pull-off force and positional stability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clip element is segmented into multiple functional zones with front latching elements and rear latching elements that can engage with spherical elements at different positions. This segmentation allows the single clip element to provide multiple latching positions with different pull-off forces, achieving varied connection stability without requiring multiple separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The latching elements are designed with elastic properties that allow them to dynamically adapt between different engagement states. The elastic latching elements can deform to engage or disengage from the spherical elements, enabling the transition between first and second clipped-on positions while maintaining reliability
2Stability of the object's composition
If the clip element is designed to prevent pivoting in the second clipped-on position, then the positional stability is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the clip element have different functional qualities: the front latching elements are designed to allow pivoting motion during the clipping operation, while the rear latching elements are designed to prevent pivoting once engaged. This local differentiation of functional qualities enables both ease of operation during installation and positional stability during use
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 solution provides a secure connection with adjustable pull-off force and positional stability, allowing for flexible component attachment with increased resistance to removal, enabling reliable assembly and disassembly without damage.
Implementation Method 1
The clip element (5) has at least one front, radially elastic latching element (6) and at least one rear, radially elastic latching element (7)
Data Source
Figure 1a~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The connection has a component (2) i.e. sheet part, and a connection element (3) projecting from the component. A ball-shaped element (3a) is connected with the component, and another ball-shaped element (3b) is connected with the former ball-shaped element, where the ball-shaped elements are designed as steel balls. A clip element (5) is attached to the connection element, and comprises a front radial-elastic locking element and a rear radial-elastic locking element, where the rear element is arranged at a distance from the front element in an insertion direction (4).