Fixing Device for Needle Elements Using Groove and Pressing Protrusion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current electronics manufacturing techniques lack a precise method to position and fix needle-shaped elements, such as welding wires, leading to reduced welding precision and product quality due to manual positioning and fixing.

Innovation Solution

A fixing device with a positioning groove and pressing protrusion mechanism, comprising links and pivot shafts, allows for precise positioning and reliable holding of needle-shaped elements, utilizing a spring mechanism for automatic opening and closing to facilitate easy insertion and secure retention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If manual positioning and fixing of needle-shaped elements is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and reliability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidpositioning precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing device is segmented into distinct functional components: a fixing base with positioning groove, a fixing mechanism with pressing protrusion, and linkages. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function (positioning, pressing, moving) independently, achieving precise positioning without excessive overall complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing mechanism incorporates a spring that automatically returns the pressing protrusion to its initial position after the needle-shaped element is inserted. This self-service feature eliminates the need for manual resetting or complex control systems, maintaining simplicity while ensuring reliable positioning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Device complexity

If manual positioning and fixing of needle-shaped elements is used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure complexityVSAvoidfixing reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning groove is pre-formed in the fixing base with precise dimensions and geometry designed to accommodate the needle-shaped element. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the element is inserted, it is automatically positioned correctly without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms during operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The spring-loaded pressing protrusion automatically engages with the needle-shaped element upon insertion and self-adjusts to apply consistent pressing force. This self-service mechanism ensures reliable fixing without requiring external control or complex actuation systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If a fixing mechanism with links and springs is used, then positioning precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidoperation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism merges multiple functions into a single integrated assembly: the links connect the pressing protrusion to the fixing base, while the spring provides automatic resetting. This merging allows the operator to simply insert and remove the needle-shaped element without needing to manually manipulate separate components, maintaining ease of operation despite the complex internal mechanism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 device ensures accurate and reliable positioning of needle-shaped elements, enhancing welding precision and product quality by providing a secure and automated fixing solution.

Implementation Method 1

a spring received in the spring receiving chamber, the spring having two ends elastically connected to the second link and to the fixing base

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic potential energy: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP3351346B1Fixing device
Publication Date: 2022.10.26 TYCO ELECTRONICS (SHANGHAI) CO LTD
  • EP3351346B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3351346B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

The disclosure discloses a fixing device adapted to fix at least one needle-shaped element (10), including: a fixing base (100) formed with at least one positioning groove (111) at a front end thereof; and a fixing mechanism (200, 300) formed with at least one pressing protrusion (210) at a front end thereof. The needle-shaped element (10) is adapted to be positioned in the positioning groove (111), and the pressing protrusion (210) is adapted to press and hold the needle-shaped element (10) in the positioning groove (111). The needle-shaped element (10) is accurately positioned in the positioning groove (111) of the fixed base (100) and reliably pressed and held by the pressing protrusion in the positioning groove (111), thereby improving positioning accuracy and reliability of the needle-shaped element (10).