Reusable Snap-In Retainer With Compressible Wings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastener systems for connecting components, such as those used in automobile construction, lack a tool-free disassembly mechanism, making it difficult to repair or replace connected structures without damaging the components.
Innovation Solution
A snap-in retainer system with a clip having a proximal head and a distal base with flexible wings, which includes a sleeve with window openings that allow the wings to compress inwardly upon full insertion, enabling non-destructive withdrawal and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a press-fit fastener system is used to connect components, then the connection strength and stability are improved, but the difficulty of disassembly increases and tool-free removal is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener system transitions from a static press-fit connection to a dynamic system with two distinct states: an installed state where the base is compressed against the panel for strong connection, and a removal state where the collar can be pushed to release the compression and enable tool-free withdrawal. The collar acts as a dynamic control element that switches the connection state.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener system incorporates a self-service removal mechanism where the collar, when pushed in the removal direction, automatically triggers the release of the compressed base through the angled surfaces interacting with the panel opening edges, enabling tool-free disassembly without requiring external tools or complex procedures.
2Reliability
If a press-fit fastener system is used to connect components, then the connection reliability is improved, but the risk of component damage during removal increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener system incorporates a self-service removal mechanism where the collar, when pushed in the removal direction, automatically triggers the release of the compressed base through the angled surfaces interacting with the panel opening edges, enabling tool-free disassembly without requiring external tools or complex procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener system transitions from a static press-fit connection to a dynamic system with two distinct states: an installed state where the base is compressed against the panel for strong connection, and a removal state where the collar can be pushed to release the compression and enable tool-free withdrawal. The collar acts as a dynamic control element that switches the connection state.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a press-fit fastener system is used to connect components, then the connection stability is improved, but the time required for disassembly and reassembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener system incorporates a self-service removal mechanism where the collar, when pushed in the removal direction, automatically triggers the release of the compressed base through the angled surfaces interacting with the panel opening edges, enabling tool-free disassembly without requiring external tools or complex procedures.
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
Facilitates easy and non-destructive removal and re-use of the retainer system, allowing for efficient disassembly and reassembly of connected components without damaging them.
Implementation Method 1
The distal base includes a pair of flexible wings extending in angled relation away from a distal segment of a central stem
Data Source
AI summary
An improved snap-in retainer system adapted to join a first component to a second component. The retainer system includes a clip having a proximal head portion and a distal base portion of generally arrowhead construction. The retainer system further includes a sleeve including an axial passageway adapted to receive the distal base portion of the clip. The sleeve includes window openings defining lateral ports permitting outboard projection of the wing elements following sliding insertion of the base portion to an intermediate stage within the sleeve. The axial passageway further includes a distal neck adapted to compress the wing elements to an inboard orientation within the interior of the sleeve upon full insertion of the base portion into the sleeve thereby facilitating non-destructive withdrawal and disengagement of the retainer system.