Tool-Free Mounting Element for Device Installation Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting elements for device installation trunking require tools for removal and have complex structures that increase costs and prevent fine adjustment after assembly, as they rely on fastening screws that cannot be inserted without tools.
Innovation Solution
A mounting element with latching hooks that cooperate with a retaining rail on the trunking floor, featuring a locking element with a guide section and support section to secure the position, allowing for fine adjustment and easy tool-free installation and removal by engaging and disengaging the locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fastening screws are used to secure the mounting element to the retaining rail, then the mounting element is securely fixed, but tool-free installation and removal cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting element is divided into separate functional components: a base part with latching hooks for attachment to the retaining rail, and a separate locking element that can be independently inserted to secure the position. This segmentation allows the latching hooks to provide secure fixation while the locking element enables tool-free operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching hooks are designed to automatically engage with the retaining rail when the mounting element is pressed into place, providing self-latching functionality without requiring tools. The locking element similarly self-secures by being inserted into the base part, locking the mounting element in position without additional fastening operations.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism with support section resting against latching hook is used, then accidental detachment is prevented, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element combines multiple functions into a single component: it provides lateral locking by engaging with the latching hook, guides proper insertion through its guide section, and prevents accidental detachment by resting against the latching hook. This merging of functions reduces the need for separate components while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element serves multiple purposes simultaneously: it locks the mounting element laterally, guides insertion along the retaining rail, and prevents accidental removal. This multi-functionality achieves reliable accidental detachment prevention without adding proportional complexity, as one component performs multiple protective and securing roles.
3Reliability
If the mounting element is firmly fixed to the retaining rail, then secure attachment is achieved, but fine adjustment in the longitudinal direction cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a static fixed state to a dynamic adjustable state. Before locking, the mounting element can slide freely along the retaining rail for positioning. After insertion of the locking element, the system locks into a fixed state. This dynamic transition allows both fine adjustment and secure attachment at different stages of installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide section of the locking element performs a preliminary guiding function during insertion, allowing the mounting element to be positioned and adjusted along the retaining rail before the locking action occurs. This preliminary guidance enables fine adjustment to be completed before the secure locking state is established.
4Reliability
If multiple latching hooks are used to secure the mounting element, then attachment reliability increases, but the number of components and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple latching hooks are integrated into a single monolithic base part rather than being separate components. This merging reduces the number of discrete parts while maintaining the attachment reliability provided by multiple engagement points with the retaining rail.
Solution Approach 2:
The single locking element performs multiple functions that would otherwise require separate components: it locks multiple latching hooks simultaneously, provides insertion guidance, and prevents accidental detachment. This universal component approach maintains high attachment reliability while minimizing the total number of parts.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The mounting structure (1) has a holding rail that is connected with the latching hook (12,12',12''). The locking portion is provided with a guide portion and a support portion. The support portion is mounted in the channel during mounting state of the mounting structure through an opening (9) of the bottom portion (4) and rest against the support rail facing away from a latching hook. Independent claims are included for the following: (1) channel incorporated with apparatus; and (2) method for assembly of mounting structure.