Panel Fixing Mechanism for All-in-One PC Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional assembly methods for panel fixing in all-in-one PCs are complex and labor-intensive, requiring numerous screws, which increases manufacturing costs and operational complexity.

Innovation Solution

A panel fixing mechanism utilizing a supporting component, positioning structure, and hook structure for a three-point fixing assembly, allowing the panel to be fixed and adjusted easily without tools, with a resilient component aiding the hook's movement to secure the panel in place.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional screw-based assembly method is used to fix the panel, then the panel can be securely fixed, but the assembly process becomes complicated and labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepanel fixing securityVSAvoidassembly process complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism is divided into three independent fixing points (two supporting components and one hook structure) that distribute the panel weight and securing force across multiple locations, achieving reliable fixation without requiring a complex overall assembly structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using screws that require threading and tightening operations, the invention uses elastic hooks that passively engage with slots through elastic deformation, inverting the traditional active fastening approach into a passive engagement mechanism that is both simple and reliable

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Reliability

If conventional screw-based assembly method is used to fix the panel, then the panel can be securely fixed, but the manufacturing cost increases due to numerous screws

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepanel fixing securityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple fixing functions (support, positioning, and securing) are merged into integrated components - the supporting components simultaneously provide support and fixation, while the hook structure combines positioning and securing functions, eliminating the need for separate screws and reducing part count

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses simple elastic hooks made from cost-effective materials that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed, replacing expensive metal screws and simplifying the overall manufacturing process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Reliability

If conventional screw-based assembly method is used to fix the panel, then the panel can be securely fixed, but the operation becomes inconvenient and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepanel fixing securityVSAvoidpanel installation convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The hook structure incorporates elastic deformation capability, allowing it to dynamically adapt during installation - the hook flexes to pass through the slot opening and then springs back to secure the panel, providing both ease of operation and reliable fixation without requiring manual tightening

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic hook structure is self-positioning and self-securing - it automatically engages with the slot when inserted and maintains fixation through its elastic recovery force, eliminating the need for manual screw tightening operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Device complexity

If a simple fixing mechanism is used to reduce complexity, then the assembly becomes easier, but the panel fixing security may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly process simplicityVSAvoidpanel fixing security

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Each fixing point is designed with localized specialized features - supporting components have specific geometries for load bearing, while the hook structure has elastic properties for securing - creating simple overall design with high reliability at each critical location

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 rapid and convenient panel installation and adjustment, reducing labor costs and operational complexity while maintaining structural stability, allowing for easy detachment and repositioning.

Implementation Method 1

a resilient component connected to the base for being resiliently deformed when the guiding inclined surface is pressed and for driving the hook to wedge inside the slot on the panel

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8462494B2Panel fixing mechanism and displaying device thereof

Publication Date: 2013.06.11 WISTRON CORP

AI summary

A panel fixing mechanism includes a supporting component for supporting a side of a panel, a positioning structure passing through the supporting component for engaging inside a hole on the panel so as to guide a connector to insert into a socket of the panel, and a hook structure for supporting another side of the panel and wedging into a slot on the panel in a movable manner.