Retaining Clamp Spring Geometry for Surface-Safe Quick Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick release fastening devices with retaining clamps often damage the surface of components due to barb-like or spring-based designs that cause corrosion and structural vulnerabilities during extraction.
Innovation Solution
A retaining clamp with V-shaped spring legs and angled spring webs that provide secure retention without damaging the component surface, allowing for elastic deformation and increased release forces without sharp edges or anchoring, ensuring reliable connection under mechanical loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If barb-like retaining webs are used to anchor the fastening bolt, then retention of the connecting shaft is improved, but the surface of the connecting shaft is damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful digging action of barbs into a beneficial elastic deformation mechanism. Instead of sharp barbs that dig into and damage the shaft surface, the invention uses elastically deformable retaining legs with inclined surfaces that flex during insertion and then elastically rebound to create retention, transforming the harmful mechanical digging into a beneficial elastic locking action that preserves the shaft surface while maintaining retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and mechanical properties of the retaining structure from rigid barbs to elastically deformable elements. The retaining legs are designed with specific elastic properties allowing them to deform under insertion forces and then maintain a locked position through elastic recovery, changing the interaction mode from destructive digging to non-damaging elastic engagement.
2Reliability
If spring webs with barb-like projections are used to anchor the retaining clamp, then retention in component opening is improved, but the component surface is damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the same principle to the component opening interface: converting harmful barb-like digging into beneficial elastic deformation. The retaining legs with inclined surfaces flex during insertion into the component opening and then elastically rebound to create retention without sharp edges that would damage the component surface, transforming destructive anchoring into non-damaging elastic locking.
3Ease of operation
If outwardly directed spring force is used for retention, then easy insertion is improved, but release forces can cause loosening under vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetry through the inclined surfaces on the retaining legs. The inclination creates a directional force component: during insertion, the incline guides the shaft into position with minimal resistance; during extraction or vibration, the same incline creates a mechanical advantage that increases retention force, preventing loosening while maintaining easy insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the retention force dynamic rather than static. The elastic deformation capability allows the retaining legs to adapt their force characteristics based on the operational state: flexible during insertion for ease of operation, and rigidified through elastic recovery during vibration or extraction attempts for enhanced retention reliability.
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 prevents damage to the component surface during extraction and maintains reliable retention, enhancing the stability and corrosion resistance of the connection while allowing for secure fastening and easy release without damaging the component.
Implementation Method 1
the outer side of the spring web comprises a smooth surface in order to avoid damage to the component surface of the first component at least at the edge of the component opening upon release of the retaining clamp from the component opening
Data Source
AI summary
A retaining clamp of a quick release fastening device, which is latchable in a component opening and in which a fastening bolt is lockable, comprising the following features: two spring legs arranged opposite to each other in a V-shape, the arrangement of which comprises a tapered open end at which the V-shaped spring legs are not connected to each other, and the arrangement of which comprises a widened end, at which the V-shaped arranged spring legs are connected to each other via a connection web with a central passage opening, and each of the two spring legs arranged in a V-shape comprises a central window with a spring web arranged therein, which is fastened at one side and is at least once angled in its course in the direction of the widened end.