Rectangular-Hole Snap Connector With Ribbed Channel Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snap connectors lack strength transversely to the channel axis and do not offer adjustment possibilities along the channel axis, limiting their effectiveness in securely mounting fitting devices like socket key locks and thin wall parts.
Innovation Solution
The incorporation of reinforcing ribs on the side walls transverse to the channel axis, along with adaptively shaped depressions in the thin wall openings to match the outer shape of the body part, enhances strength and allows for adjustable positioning by varying the number and spacing of depressions, enabling greater movability and secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the snap connector uses a simple channel structure without additional reinforcement, then the device complexity is low and ease of manufacture is high, but the strength transverse to the channel axis is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adding reinforcing ribs only at specific locations on the side walls of the channel, rather than uniformly thickening the entire structure. The ribs are positioned at the free end of the channel and at intermediate locations where strength is most needed, while maintaining a simple overall channel geometry. This localized reinforcement increases transverse strength without significantly increasing device complexity or manufacturing difficulty.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the opening in the thin wall is exactly matched to the body part shape, then the connection stability is high, but the adaptability for different positioning is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the opening in the thin wall part adjustable relative to the body part. The opening can be positioned at different locations along the longitudinal axis of the body part, allowing the connection to be adapted to different positioning requirements. This dynamic positioning capability is achieved through the elongated opening design that extends beyond the immediate boundaries of the body part, enabling multiple valid positioning configurations while maintaining stable connection through the reinforcing ribs and latch mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If the retaining elements are made highly flexible to enable easy latching, then the ease of operation is improved, but the strength and reliability of the connection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining the flexible retaining elements with the rigid body part and thin wall structure. The retaining elements are designed with sufficient flexibility to enable easy latching operation, while the reinforcing ribs on the side walls provide rigid structural support. This composite approach allows the flexible retaining elements to perform their latching function without compromising overall connection reliability, as the rigid structure bears the primary mechanical loads.
Data Source
AI summary
A snap connector for rapid mounting of fittings in a rectangular hole in a thin wall. The snap connector includes a head part to be arranged on an outer side of the thin wall. A body part penetrates the hole when mounted. Separate retaining elements protrude from said body part, and the free end of the retaining elements is provided with a first oblique face for trap-like holding and a second oblique face for play-free supporting of the body part on or against the rim or edge of the hole in the other, inner side of the thin wall. The retaining element is a slide that is guided by walls of a channel of substantially rectangular cross-section which is formed by the body part and has opposite walls. The walls have reinforcing ribs, transverse to the channel axis, on the outer wall face facing away from the channel.