Multi-Stop Retainer With Ratchet Latch for Variable Diameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fastening solutions for securing tubes and wire bundles in vehicles lack adjustability, leading to the need for multiple diameter-specific clips, increased part complexity, inventory, and tooling costs, while existing adjustable solutions require secondary steps and material waste, and metal-based products are heavy and expensive.
Innovation Solution
A multi-stop retainer with a hinged pocket and lid configuration, featuring a dual-plate J-shaped latch and mechanical stops, allows secure retention of varying diameters without additional tools, using injection molding or 3D printing for efficient manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid clips are used, then retention force and resistance to axial movement are improved, but adaptability to various diameters deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clip incorporates a flexible hinge that allows the retention members to dynamically adjust their angle and position, enabling the rigid structure to adapt to various tube diameters while maintaining strong retention force through controlled flexibility
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible clips are used, then adaptability to various diameters is improved, but retention force and slide resistance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The clip is divided into multiple rigid retention members connected by flexible hinges, creating segmented rigid structures that can adapt to different diameters while each segment maintains its structural integrity and retention capability
Solution Approach 2:
The clip combines rigid plastic material for retention members with flexible hinge regions, creating a composite structure that exhibits both the strength of rigid components and the adaptability of flexible connections
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple diameter-specific clips are produced, then adaptability to various diameters is improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The clip design achieves universal applicability across multiple tube diameters through a single standardized component that adjusts via hinge articulation, eliminating the need for multiple diameter-specific variants and simplifying inventory management
4Strength
If metal-based retention products are used, then strength and retention force are improved, but weight and cost worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The clip uses high-strength plastic material that provides sufficient retention force for automotive applications while being significantly lighter than metal alternatives, achieving the strength-to-weight ratio needed for modern vehicle weight reduction goals
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a multi-stop retainer to secure objects of varying diameters. The multi-stop retainer includes a lid coupled to a base, a first leg member, and a second leg member. The lid is coupled to the base via a hinge at the first end. The lid includes a ratchet coupler at the second end of the lid that includes a first latch and a second latch. The first leg member is coupled to the base and includes a first plurality of mechanical stops along its length that interface with the first latch. The second leg member is coupled to the base and includes a second plurality of mechanical stops along its length to interface with the second latch. The first leg member and the second leg member are parallel relative to one another. The lid pivots relative to the base via the hinge to define a pocket configured to be sized for securing an object via the ratchet coupler, the first leg member, and the second leg member.