Integrally Molded Spring Lock for Tool-Free Pipe Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing securing mechanisms for elements in heating technology, such as water-carrying lines, often require additional tools for disassembly and can be overly secure for protected locations, making them cumbersome to release.
Innovation Solution
Integrally connected springs within the receiving body provide a form-fitting lock for the securing element, allowing for easy assembly and reversible disassembly without the need for additional tools, by using cylindrical openings and guides that allow force transmission and a spring mechanism with rounded stops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate securing device is used to secure the securing element, then the security element is reliably secured and cannot be lost, but the disassembly requires additional tools and becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The securing device is integrated into the receiving body as a single component, combining the functions of the receiving body and securing device. The springs are directly formed in the receiving body, eliminating the need for separate securing devices and tools for disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The springs automatically secure the securing element when it is inserted into the receiving body, without requiring additional tools or complex operations. The securing and releasing functions are self-contained within the integrated structure.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is used to prevent unintentional disassembly, then security is improved, but the device becomes more complex and harder to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged into the receiving body through integrally formed springs, eliminating separate locking components. The springs are directly molded into the receiving body, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining the locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The springs change their physical state between stressed and unstressed positions to provide the locking and releasing functions. When the securing element is inserted, the springs are compressed; when released, they return to their original position, providing automatic securing without complex mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If the securing element is easily removable, then ease of operation is improved, but the risk of unintentional disassembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The springs are positioned at specific locations within the receiving body to provide localized securing forces. The guides are also strategically placed to constrain the securing element's movement, allowing easy removal in the intended direction while preventing unintended disassembly through proper geometric design.
Solution Approach 2:
The springs have rounded stops that engage with the securing element, providing smooth contact surfaces. This curved geometry allows the securing element to be easily pushed in and removed along the axial direction while the rounded shape of the springs provides continuous contact for reliable securing.
4Reliability
If additional securing components are added to prevent loss, then security is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The springs and receiving body are manufactured as a single integrated component, eliminating the need for separate production and assembly of securing devices. This integration simplifies manufacturing processes and reduces production costs while maintaining reliable securing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiving body serves multiple functions: it receives the securing element, provides guides for its movement, and contains the springs for automatic securing. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate securing components, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly.
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 secure fixation and easy release of elements, ensuring they remain captive yet easily removable, with forces transmitted through the securing element, suitable for both pressureless and pressure-controlled systems.
Implementation Method 1
springs (2) with rounded stops (3) which, in the unstressed state, are located in the displacement path of the securing element (11)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The lock (11) to secure a water pipe at the passage opening (7) through a holder (1) has a spring (2), in one piece with the holder, outside the passage opening. The spring secures the inserted lock through a cylindrical opening (18) in a positive fit. The spring has a limit stop (3), with a rounded or pointed surface towards the movement direction of the lock. The springs have an elasticity giving a force fit holding action which can be overcome.