Modular Edge Clip Assembly for Variable Thickness Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing edge clips require individual development and production for different object thicknesses and fastening element positions, leading to inefficiencies and increased manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular edge clip system comprising interchangeable modules with snap-in connections, allowing for flexible adaptation to various applications by combining different module types, which reduces the need for custom manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individually developed and produced edge clips are used for different object thicknesses and fastening element positions, then the reliable holding of fastening elements is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The edge clip is divided into separate functional modules: a U-shaped metal clamp module with locking claws for securing to the edge, and a plastic outer module with a holding element for the fastening element. These modules can be combined in different configurations to address various application requirements without developing entirely new clips for each case.
Solution Approach 2:
The metal clamp module is designed as a universal component that can be used across different applications by varying the outer plastic module. The standardized locking mechanism with multiple claws provides a reliable base that works for different object thicknesses, while the interchangeable outer modules accommodate different fastening element positions and types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If customized edge clips are produced for each specific application, then the adaptability to different thicknesses and positions is improved, but the manufacturing time and effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the edge clip into standardized metal clamp modules and application-specific outer modules, the system enables quick adaptation to different thicknesses and positions through module selection and combination rather than custom manufacturing of entire clips, significantly reducing production time and effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows parameter changes (such as object thickness and fastening element position) to be accommodated by selecting different pre-manufactured outer modules that are optimized for specific parameter ranges, eliminating the need to retool or redesign the entire clip for each parameter variation.
3Strength
If traditional edge clips with U-shaped metal clamps are used, then the secure attachment to edges is improved, but the destruction of the clip during removal occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The separation of the metal clamp module and plastic outer module allows the strong metal clamp to provide secure attachment while the outer module protects the locking mechanism. The modular construction enables the outer module to be designed for easy release without compromising the strength of the metal clamp's grip on the edge.
Solution Approach 2:
The plastic outer module acts as an intermediary that distributes and protects the locking claws. It provides a protective structure that prevents direct damage to the metal clamp during installation and removal operations, reducing the likelihood of clip destruction while maintaining secure attachment.
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure relates to a modular edge clip (1) for attaching a fastener to an edge (5) of an object (6), comprising a first edge clip module (2) which has a retaining element (9) for attaching the fastener to the edge clip module (1), a locking element (10) with at least two locking claws (11) which, in conjunction with a second edge clip module (3) serving as a counter bearing, are designed to lock the edge clip (1) to the edge (5), and iii) a locking connection element (19) for connecting the first edge clip module (2) to the second edge clip module (3) by means of a locking connection;and with a second edge clip module (3) which has a locking element (10) with at least two locking claws (11) which, in conjunction with the first edge clip module (2) serving as a counter bearing, are designed to lock the edge clip (1) onto the edge (5), and a locking connection element (20) designed as a counterpart to the locking connection element (19) of the first edge clip module (2) for connecting the first edge clip module (2) to the second edge clip module (3) by means of the locking connection;wherein the first and second edge clip modules (2, 3) in the connected state by the snap-fit elements (19, 20) form a gap (4) between the respective snap-fit elements (10), into which the edge (5) of the object (6) can be inserted in an insertion direction (E) for attaching the edge clip to the edge (5), in order to provide a flexibly usable edge clip for reliably attaching a fastening element to an edge (5) of an object (6) with minimal effort, and a corresponding method.