Rotating Snap-Connection Assembly for Robust Fastener-Free Interlocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection assemblies, such as mechanical fasteners and snap-type connections, are costly and time-consuming, and lack robustness for securely interlocking metal or combined metal and plastic components, particularly in mass-produced appliances.
Innovation Solution
A snap-connection assembly featuring angled legs, tab members, and a biasing arm that allows for secure interlocking of components by relative rotation, eliminating the need for mechanical fasteners and enhancing stability through a biasing force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical fasteners are used to interconnect components, then connection strength and reliability are improved, but the number of parts increases, assembly time increases, and overall cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the connection assembly itself. The tab member with opening and the biasing arm are integrated into a single component that provides both structural support and fastening function, eliminating the need for separate mechanical fasteners like screws or clips.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing arm provides automatic engagement and locking functionality. When the tab member is inserted through the opening, the biasing arm flexes and then snaps into place, creating a self-securing connection that maintains reliability without requiring additional fastening operations or parts.
2Reliability
If mechanical fasteners are used to interconnect components, then connection strength is improved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing arm is pre-configured in the connection assembly to automatically engage with the tab member during insertion. This preliminary positioning of the biasing mechanism allows the connection to secure itself during the natural insertion motion, eliminating the need for separate fastening steps and reducing assembly time while maintaining connection strength.
3Productivity
If snap-type connections are used to avoid mechanical fasteners, then assembly time and cost are reduced, but connection robustness and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing arm introduces dynamic elements to the snap connection. It flexes during insertion to allow the tab member to pass through, then snaps into a locked position to provide robust connection. This dynamic behavior enables the connection to transition from a simple snap-fit to a secure, reliable joint that maintains strength while keeping assembly simple and quick.
4Ease of operation
If traditional snap connections are used for metal components, then assembly simplicity is improved, but the connection fails to provide sufficient robustness for metal or metal-plastic combinations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the connection elements. The tab member includes an opening that receives the biasing arm, and the biasing arm is designed with specific dimensions and flexibility characteristics that enable it to engage robustly with metal components. This parameter optimization allows the same simple snap-connection mechanism to provide sufficient robustness for metal and metal-plastic applications.
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 snap-connection assembly significantly reduces assembly time and cost by providing a robust, secure interlocking mechanism for metal and plastic components without additional fasteners, suitable for mass production and various applications, including appliance components.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing arm provided on the second component comes into engagement with the first tab member prior to the second tab member reaching the opening
Data Source
AI summary
A connection assembly snap-interlocking first and second components is initiated with a first tab member provided on a first leg of the first component extending into a slot formed at an inner portion of the second component. The connection is then completed upon relatively rotating the first and second components about an axis defined by the first tab member, with a terminal bent portion of the first tab member engaging with the second component, another portion of the first tab member abutting a biasing arm extending from the second component, and a terminal portion of a second tab member, which extends from an outer edge portion of the second component, being snap-received and retained in an opening formed in a second leg of the first component.