Flush Wall Cover with Spring-Loaded Latch for Tool-Free Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for camouflaging technical gaps in buildings, such as those for access to meters or closures, face issues like lengthy screwing/un screwing processes, potential damage from over-tightening, tool dependency for removal, protrusion above the surface, and uneven adherence due to production tolerances.
Innovation Solution
A carrying frame and cover system with oval assembly openings along the frame's circumference, adjustable gripping elements, and wedge-shaped protrusions for secure fitting without tools, ensuring easy installation and removal, and perfect centring with a lamella lock for security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screws are used to fix the covering plate to the frame, then the connection is secure, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes lengthy and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the screw-based mechanical fastening system with a spring-loaded latch mechanism. The latch automatically engages with the frame when the cover is placed on the container, providing secure connection without requiring screws. For disassembly, a simple pressing action on the release element disengages the latch, dramatically reducing the time and complexity of assembly and disassembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock the cover to the frame without human intervention during assembly. The system self-secures when the cover is placed on the container, eliminating the need for manual screwing operations and providing reliable connection through the automatic latching action.
2Reliability
If screws are used to fix the covering plate, then the connection is secure, but the frame or covering plate can be damaged from over-tightening and screws can be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates screws entirely and replaces them with a spring-loaded latch system. This substitution removes the risk of over-tightening damage associated with screw fastening and prevents loss of fastening components since the latch is integrally mounted on the frame. The spring mechanism provides controlled engagement force that cannot damage the frame or cover.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element in the latch mechanism provides cushioning by absorbing excess engagement force. When the cover is placed on the container, the spring compresses to accommodate any minor misalignments or variations in the mating surfaces, preventing damage to the frame or cover while ensuring reliable latching.
3Reliability
If a special tool is used to remove the covering plate, then the plate can be securely removed, but the device complexity increases and tool dependency arises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the tool-based removal mechanism with a manual release element that directly actuates the spring-loaded latch. The release element is designed to be pressed by finger, which compresses the spring and disengages the latch from the frame. This eliminates the need for special tools while maintaining secure removal capability through the controlled disengagement of the latching mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The release element is designed to be operated directly by hand without requiring any external tools. The user simply presses the release element, which self-actuates the spring mechanism to disengage the latch, providing easy removal while reducing device complexity by eliminating tool interfaces and associated recesses.
4Ease of operation
If the covering plate is designed to protrude above the surrounding surface, then access to technical components is easier, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates and surface alignment is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the latch mechanism to be nested within the thickness of the cover and frame structure. The spring-loaded latch and release element are positioned within the depth of the cover, allowing the outer surface of the cover to be flush with the surrounding wall or ceiling surface. This nesting approach maintains aesthetic surface alignment while still providing functional access to technical components through the opening.
Data Source
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AI summary
Frame and cover for an opening in a wall or ceiling. The frame (1) comprises an outer frame (3) with a laterally situated arm part (5) oriented outwards, an inner frame (4) and a gripping part (16). The space between the inner frame and the adjacent low end of the outer frame is provided along the whole circumference by lateral stiffeners (7). The cover (2) has two put-on grips (8), and at least one adjustable gripping element (9), with a controlling element (10) for fixing of the cover in the frame. The gripping element is pivotably mounted in a through opening (11) and is in secured position flush with the outer surface of the cover. For easy gripping of the controlling element, a flap (12) is mounted pivotably springingly in the through opening and flush with the cover.