Outdoor Structure Clip With Interference Fit for Tool-Less Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching objects to outdoor structures like pergolas require tools and can aesthetically compromise the appearance of the structure.
Innovation Solution
A clip system that includes a head and body with a gap for receiving flanges, providing a frictional engagement and interference fit, allowing tool-less attachment of objects to channeled frame members, including posts and beams, with features like hooks, toggle ball holders, and electric receptacle holders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing methods are used to attach objects to outdoor structures, then objects can be attached, but tools are required and the appearance of the structure is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate components: a clip with head and body, and a channeled outdoor structure. The clip can be independently attached to the structure and then used to secure objects, enabling tool-less installation while maintaining secure attachment through the friction fit in the channel and the separate fastening mechanism for objects
Solution Approach 2:
The clip acts as an intermediary component between the outdoor structure and the object to be attached. It provides a friction fit interface with the channeled structure and a separate fastening interface for objects, enabling tool-less attachment while ensuring secure connection through its dual-function design
2Reliability
If existing attachment methods are used, then objects can be secured, but the appearance of the outdoor structure is negatively affected
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is extracted from the main outdoor structure by using a separate clip component that attaches to the structure's channel. This allows the structure to maintain its clean aesthetic appearance while the clip provides the necessary secure attachment function for objects
Solution Approach 2:
The clip serves as an intermediary that bridges the outdoor structure and attached objects without compromising the structure's appearance. Its design with the head fitting into the channel and the body extending outward allows secure attachment while maintaining the visual integrity of the outdoor structure
3Ease of operation
If a friction fit is used for the head in the channel, then tool-less attachment is enabled, but attachment security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system separates the installation function (friction fit in channel) from the object securing function (body with fastening mechanism). This segmentation allows tool-less installation via friction fit while maintaining strong attachment strength through the separate body component that directly secures objects
Solution Approach 2:
The clip merges two functions into one component: the head provides friction fit attachment to the channeled structure, while the body provides object securing. This combination enables both tool-less installation and strong attachment strength within a single integrated component
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
Enables secure, tool-less, and aesthetically pleasing attachment of objects to outdoor structures at various orientations, providing a versatile solution for outdoor living spaces without compromising the appearance of the structure.
Implementation Method 1
a head received in the channel of the post and frictionally engaged with one or more surfaces defining the channel
Implementation Method 2
The flange may be received in the gap and press-fitted between the head and the body
Data Source
AI summary
Outdoor structures and clips for attaching objects to frame members of outdoor structures are provided. A frame member includes a channel having an opening defined between two flanges having a flange thickness. A clip for attaching an object to the frame member includes a head sized to be received in the channel of the frame member via the opening and frictionally engaged with the channel upon rotation of the head when the head is received in the channel. The clip includes a body attached to the head and configured to engage with the object. The head and the body of the clip define a gap therebetween for receiving the flanges when the head is engaged with the channel. The gap has a gap thickness that is smaller than the flange thickness to define an interference fit between the flanges and the clip.