Flexible Kink Protector Assembly Without Threaded Fasteners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anti-kink solutions for lines routed through wall openings in vacuum cleaner hoses are costly due to the need for threaded elements in their assembly, which is undesirable for mass-produced parts.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece mounting base with a flexible support coil that fits form-fittingly into an outlet socket, providing axial fixation and preventing kinking without the use of threaded elements, ensuring the line is led out in an arc to prevent cable breaks or hose narrowing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded elements are used to fasten the kink protection arrangement, then the kink protection function is achieved, but the production and assembly cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting base integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support for the kink protection arrangement, incorporates latching elements directly into its body, and includes clamping sections with integrated latching lugs. This merging eliminates the need for separate threaded fasteners while maintaining the kink protection function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the threaded elements from the assembly system. Instead of using separate threads and fasteners, the latching functionality is extracted and integrated directly into the mounting base structure, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly processes.
2Ease of manufacture
If a one-piece mounting base with latching mechanism is used, then assembly cost is reduced, but the complexity of the mounting base structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting base is segmented into functional zones: clamping sections with slots for line fixation, latching sections with integrated latching lugs and recesses, and a support structure for the flexible coil. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function while maintaining overall structural integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a flexible support coil as a thin-walled elastic structure that provides kink protection through its inherent flexibility. This flexible element is integrated with the rigid mounting base, combining different structural characteristics to achieve both protection and simplicity.
3Reliability
If the line is fixed axially in the mounting base, then kink protection is improved, but the line cannot be removed or adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting base incorporates dynamic latching mechanisms that can be engaged or disengaged. The latching lugs can be pressed to release the latching recesses, allowing the mounting base to transition between a locked state (providing axial fixation and kink protection) and an unlocked state (allowing removal or adjustment of the line).
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 effectively prevents kinking and secure axial fixation of the line, reducing production and assembly costs while ensuring reliable operation without impairing function.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible support coil (7) which is formed in one piece with the mounting base (6) and surrounds the line (3), wherein the mounting base (6) is insertable in a form-fitting and latching manner into an outlet socket (4)
Implementation Method 2
the clamping section (8) of the mounting base (6), starting from the stop surface (10), consists of at least two partial elements (12-15) spaced apart from one another by axially running slots (11), of which at least one can be bent elastically outwards when the line (3) is pushed in
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~6
Figure 7~12
AI summary
A mounting base (6) surrounds a wire (3). A single-piece flexible elastic bendable spiral (7) also surrounds the wire. On a connection sleeve (1) there is an outlet connection piece (4) for the wire that connects to a side opening. The mounting base can be pushed with a locking positive fit into the outlet connection piece by fixing the wire axially.