Mushroom-Shaped Clip Element for Secure Component Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting components, such as in automotive engineering, often require complex and costly processes, lacking a simple and cost-effective solution for forming secure connections between components of different materials or shapes.
Innovation Solution
A mushroom-shaped clip element with a radially elastic sleeve and a clamping edge is used to form a secure connection by clipping onto a male form-fitting element projecting from one component, which fits into a through-hole of another component, providing both frictional and form-fitting engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If existing methods for connecting components are used, then connections can be formed between components, but the processes are complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional elements: a male form-fitting element integrated with the first component, a through-hole in the second component, and a独立的clip element with sleeve section and clamping edge. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall connection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip element is designed to self-secure through the elastic deformation of its sleeve section. When the clamping edge is inserted through the through-hole and engaged with the male form-fitting element, the sleeve section automatically deforms elastically to create a tight fit without requiring additional fastening operations or complex tools.
2Reliability
If a secure connection is achieved between components of different materials or shapes, then connection reliability is improved, but the connection process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve section is designed with specific elastic parameters that allow it to deform under insertion force and then spring back to create a tight fit. The elastic modulus, wall thickness, and length of the sleeve section are optimized to provide sufficient flexibility for engagement while maintaining secure connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution accommodates components made of different materials by using the elastic properties of the clip element material to bridge compatibility issues. The clip element material is selected to have appropriate elasticity and strength to engage with various component materials and shapes securely.
3Strength
If a form-fitting and frictional connection is created, then connection strength is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sleeve section transitions from a flexible state during insertion to a locked state after engagement. During insertion, the sleeve deforms elastically to accommodate the clamping edge, and after engagement, it springs back to create a tight fit with high frictional resistance, providing both ease of operation and strong connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The thin-walled elastic sleeve section acts as a flexible element that can be easily deformed during insertion but provides strong frictional resistance once engaged. The flexible nature of the thin-walled structure allows for simple insertion operations while the elastic recovery provides strong connection strength.
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
This solution enables easy, manual or automated connection of components with a secure, cost-effective, and adaptable fitting system suitable for various materials and shapes, allowing for relative displacement of components while maintaining a tight fit.
Implementation Method 1
The forward section of the sleeve section is first expanded slightly radially. When the sleeve section is pressed farther onto the male form-fitting element, the forward section of the sleeve section can radially spring back again a certain distance into the interior
Implementation Method 2
a certain tight fit is obtained, in addition to the frictional connection between the inner circumference of the sleeve section of the clip element and the male form-fitting element
Data Source
AI summary
A mushroom-shaped clip with a hollow, radially elastic sleeve section and a clamping edge protruding outwardly from the shank. The clip element being used in a component connection having a first component having a projecting male form-fitting element; a second component having a through-hole into which the male form-fitting element projects; and a clip element comprising a radially elastic sleeve section and a clamping edge projecting outward from the sleeve section, wherein the sleeve section is form-fittingly and/or frictionally clipped onto the male form-fitting element, and the clamping edge extends at least partially over the through-hole of the second component and rests against a side of the second component facing away from the first component or is fixedly connected with the second component.