Insert Holder Assembly With Self-Locking Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting parts face issues such as insert loss during handling, precise dimensioning requirements, and unreliable fastening due to high mechanical stress, especially when using plastic materials.
Innovation Solution
A holder design featuring a first housing for insert insertion and a second housing for secure retention, with protrusions preventing perpendicular movement, allowing efficient locking without complex tools or mechanical assistance, and an insert with U-shape and elastic portions for enhanced locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If an insert is merely inserted into a through-hole of a fixing connector, then the assembly process is simple, but the insert can be lost during transportation or handling
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is integrated within the fixing connector structure, with the insert nested within the holder. The holder comprises a first housing receiving the insert and a second housing that prevents movement out of the holder, creating a nested configuration that secures the insert while maintaining assembly simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The holder acts as an intermediary component between the fixing connector and the insert. It provides a secure receptacle for the insert while being integrated into the fixing connector, thereby preventing insert loss during handling without complicating the overall assembly process
2Manufacturing precision
If the insert is dimensioned precisely to fit the through-hole, then the fit is secure, but it becomes difficult to insert if too large or risky to fix reliably if too small
Solution Approach 1:
The holder provides a receiving space with dimensions that are more tolerant than a precise through-hole fit. The first housing receives the insert with adequate clearance, and the second housing prevents excessive movement, allowing for manufacturing tolerances without compromising security or insertion ease
3Device complexity
If the insert rests only on the plastic surface of the mounting part, then the structure is simple, but it cannot withstand high mechanical stress
Solution Approach 1:
The solution combines the plastic mounting part with a metal or more robust insert held within the holder. This composite structure allows the plastic component to maintain simplicity while the insert provides the necessary mechanical strength to withstand high stresses
4Reliability
If over molding or stamping is used to lock the insert, then the locking is robust, but the process becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed with a second housing that automatically prevents the insert from moving out in directions perpendicular to the holder plane. This self-locking mechanism eliminates the need for additional over molding or stamping processes, achieving robust locking through the holder's inherent geometry
Data Source
AI summary
A holder for an insert includes a first housing configured to receive the insert. The first housing extends within a plane of the holder. The holder further includes an opening configured for inserting the insert into the first housing in a direction substantially perpendicularly to the plane and a second housing configured to receive the insert, the second housing being in communication with the first housing. The second housing extends within the plane of the holder and is configured to prevent movement of the insert out of the holder in a direction perpendicular to the plane.