Fishing Reel Cover Member Welded Insert and Resin Cover

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Solution Overview

Problem

Fishing reel cover members made of metal suffer from aesthetic deterioration due to exposed screw holes and are prone to inner member removal due to bonding degradation over time.

Innovation Solution

A cover member design where aluminum alloy first members are stud welded to the inner surface and covered by a molded synthetic resin second member, maintaining aesthetics while preventing easy removal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If the inner member is fixed to the cover member by bonding only, then the aesthetic appearance is maintained, but the inner member can be removed due to bonding degradation over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidattachment reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment structure is divided into two functional parts: a hidden first member embedded in the cover member for secure attachment, and a second member that provides the bonding interface. This segmentation allows the aesthetic surface to remain intact while the hidden first member ensures reliable attachment through mechanical engagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The first member is nested within the cover member, with its engagement portion embedded in the cover member body. The second member is then bonded to the protruding engagement portion, creating a nested structure where the hidden first member provides secure attachment without affecting the aesthetic appearance of the cover member surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Reliability

If the inner member is fixed by screws or swaging, then the attachment reliability is improved, but holes are exposed on the surface deteriorating aesthetic appearance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment reliabilityVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical engagement function is extracted from the visible surface and relocated to the hidden first member embedded within the cover member. The second member provides only the bonding interface, while the secure attachment is achieved through the hidden first member's engagement portion, thus removing visible holes from the surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The first member acts as an intermediary element between the cover member and the second member. It provides the mechanical engagement function while remaining hidden within the cover member, allowing the second member to bond without creating visible holes on the aesthetic surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Strength

If a metal cover member is used, then the strength and durability are improved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to exposed screw holes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecover member strengthVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The cover member has different local qualities: the engagement portion is designed with features for mechanical engagement and secure attachment, while the surface portion maintains smooth, aesthetic appearance. This local differentiation allows the metal cover member to provide both strength and visual appeal without compromise.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 design enhances the aesthetic appearance of the fishing reel cover member while ensuring the inner member remains securely attached, preventing removal issues caused by bonding degradation.

Implementation Method 1

The first member is welded to an inner side of the cover member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWelding: Welding

Data Source

PatentUS8882014B2Fishing-reel reel unit and fishing reel
Publication Date: 2014.11.11 SHIMANO INC
  • US8882014B2 patent drawing
  • US8882014B2 patent drawing
  • US8882014B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A reel unit for a fishing reel includes a cover member, a first member, and a second member. The cover member is made of a metal plate. The first member is made of metal. The first member is welded to an inner side of the cover member, and is configured to protrude from the cover member. The second member is made of synthetic resin. The second member is integrally formed with the cover member and the first member to at least partially cover the first member.