HMI Panel Fixing Structure With Torque-Limiting Screw Clamp
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional human machine interface (HMI) panels face challenges such as high production costs, complex assembly processes, and potential damage due to overtightening of screws, which result in increased maintenance costs and risk of panel damage.
Innovation Solution
A human machine interface panel with a fixing device that includes a base, a self-tapping screw, and a bottom base, where the self-tapping screw has an interference fit with a mounting hole in the base, allowing for easy assembly and preventing damage by limiting the maximum torque that can be applied.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional mounting plate with screws is used to fix HMI panel, then the panel can be fixed to device, but production cost is high and assembly process is difficult and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device is divided into separate components: a mounting plate with mounting holes and a separate fixing member (screw or rivet). This segmentation allows for simpler individual parts that are easier to manufacture and assemble, while still achieving the overall fixing function when combined.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses inexpensive fixing members such as screws or rivets that can be easily replaced if damaged. The mounting plate itself is designed to be a simple, cost-effective component rather than a complex integrated structure, reducing overall production cost.
2Strength
If screws are overtightened during assembly process, then fixing force is increased, but mounting plate or main body may be sunken and deformed causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing member (screw or rivet) acts as an intermediary between the mounting plate and the device. It provides the necessary fixing force while its design (threaded structure, head shape) distributes the load appropriately, preventing direct concentration of force that could cause sunken or deformed mounting plate or main body.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention allows for adjustment of fixing parameters such as screw torque, thread pitch, and material selection. By optimizing these parameters, sufficient fixing force is achieved without exceeding the structural limits of the mounting plate or main body, preventing deformation and damage.
3Reliability
If fixing device is integrally disposed on main body, then HMI panel can be fixed to device, but production cost is high and maintenance cost is high when damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device is segmented into the mounting plate (attached to or integrated with main body) and separate fixing members (screws, rivets). This allows the fixing members to be replaced independently if damaged, without needing to replace the entire main body or mounting plate, significantly reducing maintenance costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing members are designed as inexpensive, replaceable components. If a screw or rivet becomes damaged or loose, it can be easily replaced with a new one rather than replacing the entire fixing device or main body, reducing both production and maintenance costs.
4Strength
If conventional fixing device made of metal materials is used, then structural strength is high, but production cost is high and cannot prevent operators from overtightening screws
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device combines different materials strategically: the mounting plate may be made of metal for structural strength where needed, while fixing members can be made of cost-effective materials like steel, aluminum, or even plastic for non-critical applications. This composite approach achieves sufficient strength while reducing overall production cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention allows selection of material parameters based on specific application requirements. For cost-sensitive applications, lighter or cheaper materials can be used where full metal strength is not critical. The design accommodates various material options to balance structural strength needs with production cost constraints.
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 enables easy assembly of the HMI panel, reduces the risk of panel damage from overtightening, and lowers production and maintenance costs by using plastic materials for the fixing device components.
Implementation Method 1
The self-tapping screw penetrates through the mounting hole, and has an interference fit to the mounting hole
Implementation Method 2
By disposing the plate between the bottom base and the first contact surface and tightening the self-tapping screw, the plate is clamped by the bottom base and the first contact surface
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a human machine interface panel including a main body and a fixing device. The main body includes a housing and a first contact surface. The fixing device includes a base, a self-tapping screw and a bottom base. The base is detachably connected to the housing and has a mounting hole. The self-tapping screw penetrates through the mounting hole and has an interference fit to the mounting hole. The bottom base is disposed at an end of the self-tapping screw. By disposing a plate between the bottom base and the first contact surface, and tightening the self-tapping screw, the plate is clamped by the bottom base and the first contact surface. Consequently, the human machine interface panel is fixed to the plate.