Locking device for a radiator bracket and a radiator bracket comprising such locking device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing radiator bracket locking devices are inefficient in terms of material usage, prone to plastic deformation, and do not securely fit different radiator and stirrup heights, leading to potential dismounting issues.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with a pin arrangement for pivotal attachment to the bracket, a spring mechanism for automatic locking, and adjustable locking lugs and heels to accommodate various bracket thicknesses and heights, ensuring secure and flexible fitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spring means are used to ensure locking device engages with stirrup, then locking reliability is improved, but bracket length increases and material consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the spring means from a continuous plastic spring to a discrete elastomeric element with specific durometer hardness (Shore A 40-70). This parameter change allows the spring to be compressed and expanded without permanent deformation, eliminating the need for excessive bracket length while maintaining reliable engagement with the stirrup through elastic deformation rather than plastic deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric spring element is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily replaced if needed. Rather than using expensive high-quality plastic springs that risk deformation, the patent employs a durable elastomeric element that provides reliable locking with minimal material consumption and lower cost.
2Force
If plastic spring means are biased against an anvil, then locking force is improved, but risk of plastic deformation increases and production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an elastomeric material with specific durometer hardness (Shore A 40-70) that combines the flexibility needed for spring action with the durability required to resist deformation. This elastomeric material serves as a composite solution that provides reliable locking force without the plastic deformation risks associated with plastic springs, thereby maintaining function reliability while reducing production costs.
3Ease of manufacture
If locking device is mounted one-sided on bracket, then installation simplicity is improved, but fitting security deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is segmented into distinct functional components: a body portion that mounts to the bracket, a spring means for providing locking force, and a locking element that engages with the stirrup. This segmentation allows the device to be mounted simply on one side of the bracket while internal mechanisms ensure secure fitting and prevent loosening during handling.
4Reliability
If bracket is made longer to accommodate locking device, then locking functionality is improved, but material consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mounting parameters of the locking device to position it optimally on the bracket, minimizing the required bracket length. The elastomeric spring means and compact locking mechanism allow full locking functionality to be achieved with a shorter bracket, thereby reducing material consumption while maintaining reliable locking operation.
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 solution provides a cost-effective, secure, and flexible locking mechanism that efficiently fits different radiator and stirrup heights and material thicknesses, reducing material usage and preventing unintentional dismounting.
Implementation Method 1
The locking device comprises spring means, which ensures that the locking device engages with the upper end of the stirrup
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2d
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
Disclosed is a locking device (1) for a radiator bracket and a radiator bracket (20, 120) comprising such locking device (1). The radiator bracket (20, 120) comprises support means (24) for supporting a radiator (30) or stirrup member (31) disposed thereon, and the locking device (1) prevents unintentional dismounting of the radiator (30) from the bracket (20, 120) in a locking position by means of a locking lug (6, 14). The locking device (1) is pivotally disposed on the bracket (20, 120) by means of a pivot pin (4) and is pivotable between an open position and locking positions. A spring means (5) enables automatic snap fastening and a holder arm (7) and a pin protrusion (10) enables a safe but still pivotable attachment of the locking device (1) to the bracket (20, 120).