Quick-Release Pump Mounting Bracket Using Snap-Fit Hinge Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pump mounting systems require more time or effort to assemble or disassemble, often compromising stability, while quick and easy connections may be unstable.
Innovation Solution
A pump-mounting system featuring a base plate, docking portion with a handle connected by a hinge, canted surface, support shelf, and stop surface, allowing for quick and secure attachment to both vertical and horizontal surfaces without tools, using a snap-fit mechanism for easy installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a stable connection is achieved through traditional mounting methods, then reliability is improved, but assembly time and effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is connected to the base plate by a hinge, allowing it to move between a retracted position (for insertion) and a protruding position (for locking). This dynamic mechanism enables quick transitions between assembly and disassembly states while maintaining stable connection during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The canted surface automatically engages with the pump housing during insertion, and the hinge mechanism automatically positions the handle to engage the stabilizer tabs. The system self-locks without requiring additional fasteners or complex assembly steps, providing both speed and reliability
2Ease of operation
If quick-release mechanism is used, then assembly ease is improved, but connection stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The docking portion is divided into separate functional elements: the handle for actuation, the stabilizer tabs for locking, and the canted surface for engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while working together to provide both ease of operation and connection stability
Solution Approach 2:
The canted surface is inclined and curved, allowing the pump housing to be guided into the correct position during insertion. This geometric feature ensures proper alignment and engagement while requiring minimal user effort, maintaining both ease of operation and reliable connection
3Strength
If traditional mounting systems are used, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into the docking portion: the handle serves as both the actuation mechanism and the locking element, the stabilizer tabs provide both structural support and locking engagement, and the canted surface provides both guidance and engagement. This merging reduces the number of separate components while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate serves multiple purposes: it provides structural support, anchors the docking portion, supports the shelf for pump weight, and interfaces with wall or floor surfaces. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining connection strength
Data Source
AI summary
A quick mounting bracket for a pump is provided. The bracket includes a flexible handle that moves relative to stabilizer tabs. The bracket has ramped surfaces that guide a portion of the pump housing into a receiving slot of the bracket. A hinge of the handle biases the handle away from the pump such that the handle is driven to overlap the portion of the pump housing that seats into the receiving slot, thereby locking the pump onto the bracket until the handle is move to clear receiving slot and allow the pump to be removed from the bracket.