Magnetic Locking Clip System for Slab Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for locking slabs or facings onto receiving structures, such as ceilings or partitions, face difficulties in simultaneous unlocking, often requiring multiple magnets or bulky tools, which complicates single-operator removal and can lead to re-locking issues.
Innovation Solution
A locking system comprising a body with a movable locking finger, an elastic member, and a magnetizable return member that can switch between locked and unlocked positions using a magnetic field, along with a blocking mechanism that allows for easy deformation to facilitate unlocking without specialized tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple magnets or magnetic devices are used to unlock all fastening devices simultaneously, then all locking devices can be unlocked at the same time, but the device complexity and tool bulkiness increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking fingers are controlled by a single return element that responds to one magnetic field, merging the function of multiple independent unlocking mechanisms into one unified system. This allows simultaneous unlocking of multiple fastening devices using a single magnet rather than multiple magnets.
Solution Approach 2:
The return element serves multiple functions: it controls all locking fingers, provides the unlocked position, and interacts with the magnetic field. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate unlocking mechanisms for each locking finger, reducing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If a single large and powerful magnet is used to unlock all fastening devices simultaneously, then simultaneous unlocking is achieved, but the tool becomes bulky and difficult for a single operator to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field interaction is segmented across multiple locking fingers that all respond to a single magnetic field through the return element. This segmentation allows the use of a smaller, more manageable magnet rather than requiring one large powerful magnet, while still achieving simultaneous unlocking of all fastening devices.
3Device complexity
If fastening devices are unlocked one by one, then the locking mechanism can be controlled sequentially, but there is a high probability that unlocked devices will re-lock themselves
Solution Approach 1:
The return element acts as an intermediary that transmits the magnetic field's unlocking action to all locking fingers simultaneously. This mediator ensures that all locking fingers are unlocked at the same time, preventing any single locking finger from re-locking while others remain unlocked, thereby maintaining stable unlocked positions.
4Reliability
If a locking tool is required to bring the return element into the unlocked position, then the locking mechanism can be reliably controlled, but access holes must be provided in the slab
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical locking tool system is replaced with a magnetic field-based unlocking system. Instead of requiring a physical tool inserted through access holes, a magnetic field acts on the magnetizable return element to achieve unlocking. This substitution eliminates the need for access holes while maintaining reliable locking control.
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 simple and efficient unlocking of multiple locking systems simultaneously, allowing for easy removal and relocking of slabs without the need for bulky tools or multiple magnets, maintaining the integrity of the tiles and simplifying the installation process.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetizable part intended to be moved under the action of a magnetic field against the action of the elastic element
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A locking system (1) for a slab on a receiving frame comprises: - a body (2), - a movable locking pin (6), - an elastic element (5) for driving the pin into a locked position, - a return element (4) for the locking pin (6) in an unlocked position, and - a locking means (8) for the return element (4) in the unfolded position. The locking means (8) is in the form of a part fixed to the body (2) and comprising a first portion (81) intended to bear against the return element (4) in the folded position and a second portion (82) adapted to allow deformation of the locking means (8) so that said first portion (81) is positioned away from the return element (4) in the folded position.