Modular Cabinet Panels with Elastic Snap-Fit Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular cabinets for electrical/electronic equipment are laborious to assemble, require complex processes, and are not customizable in size, necessitating preassembly and costly transportation due to the need for multiple fastening means and varied panel sizes.
Innovation Solution
A modular cabinet system using panels with L-shaped retaining and engaging means that connect via elastic deformation, eliminating the need for external fastening means and allowing for easy assembly and customization by snapping tabs into slotted openings, enabling rapid assembly and modularity in width, length, and depth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If modular panels are connected using multiple fastening means, then the connection strength is improved, but the assembly complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated fastening element that simultaneously provides mechanical attachment and structural reinforcement, eliminating the need for separate fastening means and simplifying the assembly process while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening element is designed to automatically position and secure panels together through its own structural features, eliminating the need for external tools or additional fastening operations, thereby reducing assembly complexity and time
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed-size panels are used to form cabinet structures, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but customization capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cabinet structure is divided into modular panels of standardized dimensions that can be systematically combined in different configurations, allowing customization of overall cabinet size while maintaining simple manufacturing of individual panel units
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized panels are designed with universal connection features that enable them to serve multiple functions and be assembled into various cabinet configurations, providing customization capability without requiring different panel sizes
3Stability of the object's composition
If panels are preassembled into complete cabinet structures, then structural stability is improved, but transportation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cabinet is segmented into flat, modular panels that can be compactly packaged for efficient transportation, then rapidly reassembled on-site using the simplified fastening system, reducing transportation complexity while maintaining structural stability through proper panel design and connection features
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
The solution simplifies assembly, reduces production complexity, allows for customizable dimensions, and provides a sturdy, stable structure without the need for external fastening, facilitating easier transportation and installation while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
said retaining means (12) of a first panel (10) deform by elastic strain to engage with the corresponding engaging means (13) of a second panel (10), adjacent to said first panel, so as to obtain the connection between said two panels (10)
Data Source
Figure 1A~1E
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention is relative to a cabinet (1), formed by at least four modular metal panels (10), for accommodating electrical or electronic equipment, each panel comprising a flat plate (11) defined by a first pair of opposite edge portions (11 A, 11 B) and a second pair of opposite edge portions (11C, 11 D), said panels (10) being connectable perpendicularly to each other to form a box-like structure. In particular, each of said panels (10) comprises retaining means (12) associated with said first pair of opposite edge portions (11 A, 11 B), and engaging means (13) associated with an edge portion (11 D) of said second pair of edge portions (11C, 11 D), said retaining means (12) of a first panel (10) being configured so as to cooperate by elastic strain with corresponding engaging means (13) of a second panel (10), adjacent to said first panel, to obtain a fixed connection between said two panels. The present invention also comprises a method for assembling a cabinet for accommodating electrical or electronic equipment.