Electric Junction Box Locking Mechanism for Rattle Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric junction boxes face issues with poor workability in releasing locking structures and gaps generated due to resiliency between the box and cover, which affect detachability and maintainability.
Innovation Solution
A design featuring a first box with a locking member and a pair of temporarily locking members with projections that temporarily lock each other, allowing for easy attachment and detachment without gaps, using a receiving member and insertion member with an engaging claw and concave groove, and clipping members to enhance rigidity and reduce unintentional unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple locking structures are collectively engaged by pushing the cover against the first box, then the attachment strength is improved, but the workability of releasing the locking structures deteriorates because they cannot be collectively released
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking structures (first locking structure and second locking structure) into a single integrated locking mechanism that can be engaged and disengaged collectively. The locking member simultaneously interacts with both locking structures, allowing one-action engagement and disengagement of multiple locking points, thus resolving the contradiction between strong attachment and easy release.
2Device complexity
If a self hinge is used to connect the first box with the cover, then the number of locking structures can be reduced, but a gap is generated between the first box and the cover due to resiliency of the self hinge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a positioning member as an intermediary element between the locking member and the locking structures. This positioning member precisely locates the locking member, ensuring that the locking structures engage accurately without generating gaps, while still allowing for a reduced number of locking structures overall.
3Reliability
If locking structures are mounted on outer walls for engagement, then the attachment is secure, but the structure becomes complex and maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the locking mechanism into distinct functional components: a locking member, positioning members, and locking structures. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while making the overall system easier to maintain, as individual components can be inspected and replaced independently without affecting the entire assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A case is formed with a box main body and a cover. This box includes a locking member for keeping the box main body and the cover attached to each other, and a pair of temporarily locking members for absorbing a rattle generated between the box main body and the cover. The locking member is mounted on the center of a sidewall of the case. The temporarily locking members are mounted on both ends of the sidewall between which the locking member is interposed. The temporarily locking members are temporarily locked together simultaneously with an engagement of the locking member, and unlocked by bending the sidewall when the locking member is disengaged.