Elastically Deformable Name Plate Snap-Fit Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for assembling name plates on funeral items, such as coffins or ossuaries, are cumbersome and prone to damaging the surface, and they lack a sleek design without protruding parts.
Innovation Solution
A name plate design featuring a one-piece plastic frame with a zinc-coated sheet metal fastening device, using adhesive or snap-fit elements, and an elastically deformable transparent plate with tabs that securely engage with the frame without visible screws or protrusions, allowing for easy assembly and a streamlined look.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional screws or glue are used to fasten the transparent plate to the frame, then the name plate can be securely assembled, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening methods (screws, glue) with a snap-fit mechanism where the transparent plate engages with the frame through elastic deformation. The plate's inherent elasticity allows it to snap into place without additional connecting elements, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent plate serves its dual function as both the viewing window and the fastening element. The plate's elastic properties enable it to self-fasten to the frame through the snap-fit mechanism, eliminating the need for separate fastening components and reducing assembly complexity.
2Reliability
If traditional screws are used to fasten the transparent plate, then the assembly is secure, but the name plate has protruding parts that affect its sleek appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visible mechanical fasteners (screws) with a concealed snap-fit mechanism. The transparent plate engages with the frame through elastic deformation, allowing secure fastening without any protruding parts, thus maintaining a sleek, smooth appearance on both the front and back of the name plate.
3Reliability
If traditional assembly methods with multiple components are used, then the fastening is reliable, but the manufacturing process may cause damage to the name plate surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical fastening systems that require drilling, screwing, or gluing (which can damage surfaces) with a snap-fit mechanism. The transparent plate elastically deforms to engage with the frame, providing reliable fastening without contact that could damage the name plate surface.
4Productivity
If simple fastening methods are used, then the assembly is quick and easy, but the name plate may not be securely fastened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex multi-step fastening procedures with a single-action snap-fit mechanism. The transparent plate is quickly inserted and securely fastens to the frame through elastic deformation, achieving both rapid assembly and reliable attachment in one simple operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent plate automatically secures itself to the frame through the snap-fit mechanism without requiring additional fastening actions. The elastic deformation of the plate creates a self-locking effect that ensures secure attachment while maintaining assembly simplicity and speed.
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 design simplifies the assembly process, prevents surface damage, and provides a sleek, non-protruding appearance by using adhesive or snap-fit elements and an elastically deformable transparent plate that securely fastens to the frame, ensuring rapid and easy installation without additional connecting elements.
Implementation Method 1
The transparent plate (4) comprises a central portion (16) and two tabs (21)... The transparent plate (4) is made in one piece of elastically deformable material
Implementation Method 2
The sheet metal 7 is fastened to the support (funeral item) by means of adhesive 9
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~7
Figure 8
AI summary
A name plate has a frame (3), which is adapted to be secured to a support, in particular to a funeral article, and defines a housing for a label which indicates a name to put on the support; the name plate has also a plate provided with a closing portion which closes the housing so as to hold the label in the housing; the plate has two tabs, which are arranged along a peripheral edge of the closing portion and each of which engages a corresponding said retaining seat (14), made in the frame (3); the closing portion is elastically deformable so as to take a curved shape in order to introduce the tabs in the retaining seats (14).