Automotive Fan Motor Relay Mounting Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a simple, inexpensive, and efficient method to mount a power relay box of a fan motor assembly in a motor vehicle engine compartment, as existing solutions lack support for the weight of the case in the new designated position.

Innovation Solution

A fixing device with at least one first and second pinching means that act on ribs of the structure, positioned to form an acute angle greater than 30°, preferably a right angle, using staples that deform to create frictional forces for secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the power relay box is moved to a position close to the fan motor assembly, then the spatial arrangement and accessibility are improved, but there is no structural element available to support the weight of the case

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition flexibilityVSAvoidstructural support capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing device is divided into multiple independent fixing means (at least two) that can be distributed across different structural elements. Each fixing means independently contributes to supporting the weight, distributing the load rather than relying on a single support point. This segmentation allows the device to adapt to positions with limited structural support while maintaining adequate weight-bearing capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transitions from relying on vertical support (single dimension) to utilizing multiple spatial dimensions for support. By positioning at least two fixing means at different locations and orientations, the device creates a multi-dimensional support structure that can anchor to the structure in various directions, effectively distributing weight across multiple structural elements rather than requiring a single strong support point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Strength

If a complex fixing device with multiple support elements is used, then the weight support capacity is improved, but the assembly becomes more complicated and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveweight support capacityVSAvoidfixing device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple fixing means are merged into a single integrated fixing device that acts as one unified component. This consolidation allows the device to provide multi-point support (distributing weight across multiple locations) while maintaining simple installation procedures. The merged structure eliminates the need to install separate support elements individually, reducing assembly complexity despite the increased functional capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a mounting mechanism and a weight support structure simultaneously. By integrating multiple fixing means into one device, it performs the dual function of securing the power relay box to the structure while distributing its weight load. This universal design eliminates the need for separate support brackets or additional structural modifications, simplifying the overall assembly process.

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

3Device complexity

If traditional fixing methods are used without positioning means, then the device structure is simpler, but the assembly precision and orientation are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing device structureVSAvoidassembly precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Positioning means are integrated into the fixing device to pre-establish the correct spatial relationship and orientation between fixing means and the structure before final attachment. This preliminary positioning action ensures that when the fixing device is installed, the fixing means are already correctly aligned with their target locations on the structure, achieving high assembly precision without requiring complex adjustment procedures or multiple installation steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 quick, effortless, and secure assembly of the power relay box by blocking degrees of freedom and utilizing friction and bracing phenomena, ensuring effective weight distribution and stability.

Implementation Method 1

utilizing friction and bracing phenomena, ensuring effective weight distribution and stability

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP2321540B1Structure suporting an automobile motor-fan system and device for attaching a power supply relay housing of said motor-fan system onto said structure.
Publication Date: 2013.08.28 RENAULT SA
  • EP2321540B1 patent drawingFigure 1~5
  • EP2321540B1 patent drawingFigure 6~8
  • EP2321540B1 patent drawingFigure 9~11

AI summary

The invention relates to a device (20) for attaching an element (1) onto a structure (15), characterized in that the device includes at least one first attaching means (6a), intended to grip onto a first rib (7a) of the  structure, and a second attaching means (6b), intended to grip onto a second rib (7b) of the structure, the device including a positioning means (24) that positions and/or orients the first and second attaching means relative to each other.