Multi-Diameter Routing Clip With Flexing Finger Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing routing clip assemblies are unable to securely accommodate tubes of varying diameters, leading to potential dislodgment and relative movement between the tube and the clip, as channels are typically configured for specific diameters, making them ineffective for tubes smaller or larger than the intended size.
Innovation Solution
A routing clip assembly with multiple pairs of fingers, each configured to accommodate different ranges of tube diameters, where the fingers can flex to accommodate various diameters and include contoured distal ends and abutment surfaces to securely retain and stabilize the tube within the channel, preventing axial shift and relative movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the channel is configured for a specific tube diameter, then the routing clip can securely retain tubes of that diameter, but it cannot accommodate tubes with smaller or larger diameters
Solution Approach 1:
The routing clip employs multiple pairs of fingers that can flex dynamically to accommodate tubes of varying diameters. Each finger pair is connected to the body by a hinge, allowing the fingers to move between open and closed positions. This dynamic mechanism enables the same channel structure to adapt to different tube sizes without requiring multiple fixed-channel configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The routing clip divides the tube-retaining function into multiple independent finger pairs, where each pair can independently adjust to accommodate different tube diameters. This segmentation allows the channel to handle a range of tube sizes through coordinated action of multiple finger pairs rather than requiring a completely different channel design for each diameter.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the channel is designed to fit larger diameter tubes, then larger tubes can be received, but smaller diameter tubes will axially shift within the channel
Solution Approach 1:
Different finger pairs are positioned at different locations along the channel axis, with each pair providing localized retention for specific tube diameter ranges. The first pair of fingers accommodates smaller diameters while the second pair accommodates larger diameters, creating zones of optimized local fit rather than a uniform channel design.
Solution Approach 2:
The routing clip changes the geometric parameters of the retention structure by using fingers with different lengths and positions. The first pair of fingers has a configuration optimized for smaller tube diameters, while the second pair has a configuration optimized for larger diameters, allowing the same channel to maintain proper fit and retention stability across a range of tube sizes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pairs of fingers are added to accommodate different tube diameters, then adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple finger pairs are integrated into a single routing clip body, creating a universal device that can accommodate multiple tube diameters. Each finger pair serves the dual function of both accommodating its specific diameter range and contributing to the overall retention mechanism, rather than requiring separate devices for different tube sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The routing clip merges multiple tube-retention functions into a single integrated structure. The first and second pairs of fingers work together in coordination, with each pair handling different diameter ranges, to provide comprehensive multi-diameter accommodation in one device rather than requiring multiple separate clips.
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 allows for secure retention of tubes with varying diameters, maintaining proper alignment and mitigating movement, thereby enhancing the stability and retention strength of the tube within the clip assembly.
Implementation Method 1
each finger is configured to flex about its respective hinge between a closed position and an open position
Implementation Method 2
the distal ends of at least one pair of fingers are configured to abut directly against the tube in a radial configuration to retain the tube within the channel
Implementation Method 3
the abutment surfaces are configured to tangentially abut against the tube to mitigate movement of the tube relative to the clip body
Data Source
AI summary
A routing clip assembly is configured to secure a tube to a structure. The assembly includes a clip having a main body, and at least one tube-retaining section is defined on a lateral side of the main body. The tube retaining section includes a channel adapted for receipt of the tube. The channel defines a channel axis and is configured to accommodate a variety of tube diameters. The channel includes at least two pairs of fingers, wherein each finger of a given pair connects to the body at a respective hinge on a side of the channel opposite the other finger of the pair. Further, each of the fingers has a distal end that extends generally toward the channel axis. The at least two pairs of fingers are configured to flex between a closed position and an open position to permit insertion of the tube into the channel.