Ferrite Core Fixing Device with Bendable Arms

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for fixing ferrite cores in electrical devices like copiers and electronic photo printers require sufficient space, which can be a limitation in compact designs.

Innovation Solution

A component fixing device with a holding portion and a fixed portion, where the holding portion is inserted into the ferrite core's hollow portion and features arm portions that bend to securely hold the core, allowing for flexible attachment to objects without needing extensive space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a storage case with a connecting portion is used to fix the ferrite core, then the ferrite core can be retained, but sufficient space must be provided at the object for fixing the storage case

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixation reliabilityVSAvoidattachment area
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing device is divided into two functional segments: a holding portion that inserts into the ferrite core's hollow portion to secure it, and a fixed portion that attaches to the object. This segmentation allows the device to adapt to limited spaces by separating the component-holding function from the surface-attachment function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The holding portion is inserted into the hollow portion of the ferrite core, creating a nested structure where the fixing device fits inside the component itself. This eliminates the need for external mounting space and allows fixation in tight spaces where the ferrite core is already positioned.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If the holding portion has arm portions that bend to sandwich the component, then secure holding is achieved, but the structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveholding reliabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The arm portions are designed as flexible, bendable elements that can deform to sandwich and secure the ferrite core. This flexibility allows the structure to adapt to the component while maintaining simplicity in the overall design, avoiding rigid complex mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The arm portions transition from a relaxed state to a clamping state through bending motion. This dynamic behavior allows the holding portion to securely grip the ferrite core during insertion and then maintain constant holding force, achieving reliable fixation without complex locking mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 secure fixation of ferrite cores in tight spaces, allowing for flexible placement and easy maintenance, while reducing the area required for attachment and allowing for cost-effective production using elastic materials.

Implementation Method 1

a pair of arm portions disposed at both sides of the center holding portion and capable of bending relative to the center holding portion, so that the center holding portion and the arm portions sandwich the component

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS7516540B2Electrical device having component fixing device
Publication Date: 2009.04.14 OKI ELECTRIC INDUSTRY CO LTD
  • US7516540B2 patent drawing
  • US7516540B2 patent drawing
  • US7516540B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A component fixing device includes a holding portion for holding a component with a hollow portion while restricting a movement of the component; and a fixed portion elastically connected to the holding portion and to be fixed to an object. The holding portion is inserted into the hollow portion of the component for holding the component. The holding portion may have a center holding portion abutting against an outer surface of the component and a pair of arm portions disposed at both sides of the center holding portion and capable of bending relative to the center holding portion, so that the center holding portion and the arm portions sandwich the component.