Self-Locking Edge Clip Assembly with Interlocking Spacer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional edge clips face challenges in ease of assembly, potential damage to components during assembly or maintenance, and increased costs due to limited access and risk of scratching or gauging, especially on painted or coated surfaces, which complicates assembly and maintenance in industries like automotive.
Innovation Solution
A self-locking edge clip assembly with a clip body and a slideable spacer that changes configuration from open to engaged, featuring a rib and slot interlock to secure the spacer in place, preventing withdrawal and ensuring secure attachment while minimizing component damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional edge clips are used for fastening components, then attachment strength is achieved, but the components may be scratched or damaged during assembly and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
A polymeric spacer is introduced as an intermediary component between the metal clip body and the fastened component. The spacer extends into the clip cavity and provides a protective interface that prevents direct contact between the metal clip and the component surface, thereby preventing scratches and damage while maintaining attachment strength through the interlock mechanism between the spacer and clip body
Solution Approach 2:
The polymeric spacer is pre-installed in the clip cavity before the component is fastened. This beforehand cushioning protects the component surface from potential damage during both assembly and maintenance operations, as the spacer acts as a cushioning layer between the metal clip and the component
2Reliability
If traditional edge clips are used with limited access locations, then fastening is achieved, but assembly and maintenance time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clip assembly is designed with a movable spacer that can be dynamically repositioned. During maintenance, the spacer can be withdrawn from the clip cavity, allowing the component to be easily removed. During assembly, the spacer is inserted into the cavity to enable proper fastening. This dynamic reconfiguration reduces assembly and maintenance time while maintaining fastening reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The clip assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: the metal clip body providing structural strength, the polymeric spacer providing protection and flexibility, and the interlocking features. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally, with the spacer being independently removable for maintenance operations
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional edge clips are used, then fastening function is provided, but assembly costs increase due to extra assembly time and potential repair requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The protective spacer and the fastening clip are combined into a single integrated assembly unit. The spacer is designed to work in conjunction with the clip body through complementary interlocking features (protrusions and recesses), merging the protection function and fastening function into one cohesive device that simplifies the overall assembly process and reduces the need for separate protective measures
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure provides an edge clip assembly (10) for attachment of a component, and, more specifically, to an edge clip assembly which is self-locking. The edge clip assembly includes a clip body (12) and a spacer (14) provided within the clip body, and further includes an interlock securing the spacer in a final position in which the clip body can be engaged with the component to hold the component under tension.