Tool-Free Module Attachment Device with Push-Actuated Moving Member

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing module attachment devices require a large space on the mounting surface and necessitate the use of tools for attachment, limiting their compactness and usability without tools.

Innovation Solution

A module attachment device comprising a first module with a moving member that protrudes from its casing when pushed, allowing engagement with a mounting surface, and a second module with a moving member that pushes the first module's end to facilitate attachment without tools, achieving a compact configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If metal attachment hardware with protruding configuration is used, then screwing operation is eliminated, but large space is required on the mounting surface

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment operationVSAvoidmounting surface space

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The moving member is disposed inside the casing in a retracted state, nesting the attachment mechanism within the module body. This eliminates the need for protruding hardware on the mounting surface while maintaining the tool-free attachment capability through the push-button operation that extends the moving member only when needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of operation

If metal attachment hardware with protruding configuration is used, then screwing operation is eliminated, but tool is required to move the hardware to fastening position

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment operationVSAvoidtool requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The moving member is configured to be movable by manual push operation, allowing the user to directly actuate the attachment mechanism without requiring external tools. The spring mechanism provides automatic resetting, making the entire attachment and detachment process tool-free and self-service

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Area of stationary object

If compact configuration is achieved, then mounting surface space is reduced, but attachment operation becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemounting surface spaceVSAvoidattachment operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The moving member transitions between retracted and extended states based on user input, allowing the compact casing to accommodate the attachment mechanism dynamically. The spring mechanism enables easy actuation and automatic resetting, maintaining operational ease while achieving compactness

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10704576B2Module attachment device

Publication Date: 2020.07.07 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD

AI summary

A module attachment device includes: a first module that includes a first casing and a first moving member, the first moving member being configured such that when a first end is pushed, a second end protrudes from the first casing; and a second module that is engaged with a mounting surface, and includes a second moving member that is disposed at a position where the second moving member is capable of pushing the first end of the first moving member, wherein in response to the first end of the first moving member being pushed by the second moving member, the second end of the first moving member protruding from the first casing comes into engagement with the mounting surface.