Sheet Metal Latch Connection for Tool-Free Assembly and Disassembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connections between sheet metal parts in air guide technology, such as those used in heat pumps, are either cost-intensive or require complex assembly and disassembly processes, particularly when dealing with different evaporator geometries.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring a locking mechanism that allows for the solvable connection of sheet metal parts by utilizing a bridge-shaped bar with a central background part and ramp-shaped extensions, enabling relative shift along a center axis to achieve a locking or unlocking position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a screw connection is used between the air duct and the heat pump's end fin, then a strong connection is achieved, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into two main components: a latch element with engagement arms and a receiver element with corresponding slots. This segmentation allows the connection to be made through simple insertion and engagement movements rather than complex screw threading, significantly reducing assembly and disassembly time while maintaining connection strength through the interlocking geometry of the engagement arms and slots.
2Ease of operation
If the air duct rests only against the end blade with a gasket seal, then assembly is simple, but the connection strength and stability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges two functions into a single integrated latch element: the sealing function (through the latch body contacting the mating surface) and the mechanical locking function (through the engagement arms fitting into the slots). This combination achieves both simple assembly and strong, stable connection, eliminating the weakness of the gasket-only approach while maintaining ease of operation.
3Ease of repair
If a removable connection is used to allow independent assembly of air duct and evaporator, then servicing is simplified, but the connection may lack permanent strength and tightness
Solution Approach 1:
The latch element is pre-formed with engagement arms positioned and oriented correctly before assembly. During installation, the engagement arms automatically align with and engage the slots in the receiver element, creating a tight, reliable connection without requiring complex adjustment or additional sealing components. This preliminary configuration ensures both ease of repair and connection 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
This solution provides a strong, permanent connection between sheet metal parts without the need for seals, simplifying assembly and disassembly while reducing costs and effort, particularly in the context of heat pump air supply systems.
Implementation Method 1
to engage behind their connecting surfaces in a locking position with mutual bracing of the two sheet metal parts and with frictional connection
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for detachably connecting a first sheet metal part (10) with a second sheet metal part (21) via connecting surfaces (12, 22) of the sheet metal parts (10, 21), wherein a latch (11) projecting from the connecting surface (12) of the first sheet metal part (10) is provided, which is designed to penetrate a recess in the connecting surface (22) of the second sheet metal part (21) and, as a result of a relative displacement of the two sheet metal parts (10, 21) along the central axis of the recess, engage behind their connecting surfaces (12, 22) in a locking position under mutual tension of the two sheet metal parts (10, 21) and under force engagement, wherein, by an opposite relative displacement of the two sheet metal parts (10, 21) to separate them from each other, the latch (11) assumes an unlocking position.