Leaf-Spring Fastening Element for Tool-Free Hob Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing fastening systems for hobs in worktops require tools for assembly, making the process complex and unreliable, as the springs need to be pressed or struck into place, which can lead to insecure seating.
Innovation Solution
A leaf-shaped spring with a reduced width at one end that fits into a slit-shaped recess in the carrier element, allowing for tool-free assembly by pivoting into a secure position, with a latching element formed from the same material and a T-shaped widening for a hook-like closure, ensuring a firm hold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring is pressed or struck into place using tools, then the spring can be secured to the carrier element, but the assembly process becomes complex and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The spring's width parameter is changed along its length, creating a reduced width section that enables tool-free insertion through the recess while maintaining secure engagement through the broader leaf-shaped region
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is segmented into distinct functional regions: a reduced width section for insertion, a leaf-shaped bent region for engagement, and a latching element for securing, allowing each section to perform its specific function during assembly
2Ease of operation
If the spring has a reduced width at one end, then tool-free assembly is enabled, but the spring structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The spring has different width characteristics at different locations: a reduced width at the insertion end for easy access through the recess, and a broader leaf-shaped region for secure engagement, with each local structure optimized for its specific function
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 easy, tool-free assembly with a secure seating of the spring in the carrier element, providing reliable fastening without the need for assembly tools and accommodating variations in installation depth.
Implementation Method 1
a spring (3) which can thereby be fixed to the carrier element (2)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a fastening element (1) for attaching a part, especially a cooking hob, to a supporting element (2), particularly a frame that supports or surrounds the cooking hob. Said fastening element (1) comprises a spring (3) which can be attached to the supporting element (2) by engaging a locking element (4) that is disposed on the spring (3) into a first recess (5) in the supporting element (2). The spring (3) is provided with a gripping section (7) for holding the part at one end (6) that is free in the mounted state while the spring (3) is embodied as an element that is bent in a leaf-shaped manner. In order to make it easier to assemble the spring, the width (b) of the other end of the spring, which is located at a distance from the free end (6), is smaller than the width (B) of the area (9) that is bent in a leaf-shaped manner. The end (8) having a smaller width penetrates a second slit-shaped recess (10) in the supporting element (2) in the mounted state of the spring, the width (Bs) of said second slit-shaped recess (10) being smaller than the non-reduced width (B) of the area (9) of the spring (3) which is bent in a leaf-shaped manner.