Plug-In Wedge Insert for Tool-Free Panel Clamping in Grooves
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for fixing a first panel within a groove of a second panel are complex, costly, and require tools, limiting simplicity and efficiency in panel positioning.
Innovation Solution
A plug-in wedge with a wide and narrow leg, featuring a spring tongue and projections, allows tool-free, intuitive installation, providing a cost-effective and high-stability clamping solution by engaging the narrow leg within the groove and using the spring tongue for additional stabilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rear panel holder with screws is used to fix the rear panel, then the panel is securely fixed, but the installation requires tools and becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge-shaped insert performs the fixation function by itself through its geometric shape and elastic deformation, without requiring external tools or additional components. The wedge is simply inserted into the groove and automatically clamps the panel through elastic recovery, making the system self-sufficient and tool-free
Solution Approach 2:
The insert utilizes elastic deformation as a key parameter change mechanism. The wide leg elastically deforms during insertion and then recovers to generate clamping force, transforming the physical state of the material from flexible during insertion to rigid during clamping, enabling secure fixation without tools
2Reliability
If traditional panel fixation methods are used, then the panel is securely positioned, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation system is segmented into functional zones within a single component: the wide leg provides clamping force, the narrow leg provides wedge-shaped insertion advantage, and the spring tongue provides additional stabilization. This segmentation of functions within one piece simplifies manufacturing compared to multiple separate components
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple fixation functions are merged into a single wedge-shaped insert component. The clamping function, positioning function, and anti-loosening function are all integrated into one element that is inserted as a single piece, reducing manufacturing complexity and assembly steps
3Ease of operation
If the groove width is made larger to accommodate the panel, then the panel fits easily, but the clamping effect is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static groove to a dynamic clamping mechanism. The elastic wide leg deforms during insertion to accommodate the panel easily, then dynamically recovers to generate clamping force. This dynamic behavior allows the same structure to provide both easy insertion and strong clamping
4Strength
If the wedge-shaped insert is made from rigid material, then the structural strength is high, but the elastic deflectability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The material properties are optimized to achieve the right balance: using elastomers or plastics with specific durometer ranges (e.g., 50-90 Shore A) that provide sufficient elasticity for clamping while maintaining adequate structural strength. The geometric parameters (wide leg dimensions, wall thickness) are also adjusted to control the stiffness and elastic recovery characteristics
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 simple, tool-free, and cost-effective positioning of panels with high angular stability, ensuring secure clamping without the need for tools and reducing manufacturing effort.
Implementation Method 1
a spring tongue (5) formed on the outside (3a) of the wide leg (3), which extends its free tongue end (6) to beyond the outside (4a) of the narrow leg (4)
Implementation Method 2
a wedge-shaped, narrow leg (4)... the narrow leg (4) and the spring tongue (5) are each formed as a continuous wall. The inside (3b) of the wide leg (3) and the outside (4a) of the narrow leg (4) form an angle of 90°
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2d
Figure 3~5b
AI summary
A plug-in wedge (1) according to the invention for clamping a first panel (11) within a groove (13) of a second panel (12) comprises a rectangular angle (2) which has a wide leg (3) and a wedge-shaped, narrow leg (4). , and on the outside (3a) of the wide leg (3) formed spring tongue (5), which extends with its free tongue end (6) to over the outside (4a) of the narrow leg (4).