Fixture Locator With Locking Release Element For Automotive Snap-Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current quality control methods for automotive parts with locking features, such as snap-fits and clips, are inadequate as they do not accurately represent the parts in their final assembly position, leading to inaccurate and irreproducible measurements, especially with irregularly shaped plastic parts that deform easily, and lack efficient correction mechanisms in production lines.
Innovation Solution
A fixture and locator system with integrated fixation components that simulate the locking features of the parts, allowing for reversible holding and accurate positioning, using locking and release elements to securely hold the parts without deforming them, and enabling precise measurement and quality control without assembly, employing materials like additive manufacturing and durable reinforcements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional quality control methods are used for parts with locking features, then the measurement process is simple, but the measurement accuracy is poor because the parts are not held in their final assembly position
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture is divided into multiple locators, each responsible for holding a specific locking feature (snap-fit, clip, or rivet) of the car part. Each locator contains a fixation component that simulates the complementary portion of the interlock mechanism, allowing independent engagement with different locking features while maintaining the part in its final assembly position for accurate measurement.
2Stability of the object's composition
If irregularly shaped plastic parts are held using conventional fixtures, then the fixture design is simple, but the parts deform easily leading to inaccurate measurements
Solution Approach 1:
Each locator is designed with specific local properties to match the particular locking feature it engages. The fixation components have varying geometries, materials, and mechanical properties tailored to specific snap-fits, clips, or rivets. This localized customization allows the fixture to distribute holding forces appropriately across irregularly shaped parts, preventing deformation while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular design.
3Reliability
If quality control is performed after final assembly, then the measurement represents the final position, but the removal of unsatisfactory parts is labor-intensive and correction is not rapid
Solution Approach 1:
The fixture enables quality control to be performed on individual car parts before they are assembled into the final vehicle assembly. By holding each part in its final assembly position using the fixation components that simulate actual locking features, the system allows measurement and inspection to occur at an earlier stage in the production process. This preliminary quality control enables rapid identification and correction of defects without requiring disassembly of completed assemblies, thereby improving both reliability and productivity.
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 accurate and reproducible quality control and measurement of parts with locking features in their final assembly position, reducing waste and production time, while allowing for efficient correction and handling of irregularly shaped parts.
Implementation Method 1
a locking element configured to receive the said first portion
Implementation Method 2
a releasing element configured to release the said first portion from the locking element
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a fixture and/or locator for supporting and positioning and/or calibrating an object comprising a male or female portion of an interlock mechanism, the fixture and/or locator comprising: at least one fixating (2) component for holding the object in a fixed position, characterized in that, the at least one fixating component comprises a locking element (3) configured for receiving the male portion and a release element (4) for releasing the male or female portion from the locking element by actuating the release element.