Snap Fastener with Segmented Spring for Thin Wall Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snap fastening systems for thin walls lack sufficient holding force, are vulnerable to vibrations, and require tools for disassembly, with holding force dependent on plastic material properties and limited versatility for non-round fittings.
Innovation Solution
Separating the body part and spring into distinct components allows for adjustable spring force, using diametrically opposed holding elements with spiral springs and varying bevel angles, and incorporating rotatable, swivelable, or slidable holding elements made from different materials to enhance locking force and adaptability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If holding elements are formed integral with the body part from plastic material, then the snap fastening can be simply inserted into the opening, but the holding force cannot be made as high as desired and the structure cannot withstand vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The holding element is divided into two separate parts: a plastic body part that provides ease of assembly through injection molding, and a separate metal spring element that provides the necessary holding force and vibration resistance. The metal element is inserted into the plastic body part, combining the advantages of both materials without requiring integral construction.
2Ease of manufacture
If integral plastic holding elements are used, then manufacturing is simple, but the holding force depends on plastic material properties and cannot be increased sufficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines two different materials with complementary properties: plastic (providing ease of manufacture and insertion) and metal spring material (providing high holding force and elasticity). This composite construction allows each material to contribute its superior properties, overcoming the limitation of using plastic alone for both manufacturing ease and force generation.
3Ease of operation
If the snap fastening is designed for quick insertion, then assembly is simple, but disassembly requires tools and the structure is not easily adjustable
Solution Approach 1:
The metal holding element is designed as a spring that can dynamically change its state between compressed (insertion) and relaxed (disassembly). This dynamic property allows the element to be easily compressed for insertion without tools, and then naturally return to its original state to release the connection, enabling tool-free disassembly while maintaining secure holding during operation.
4Device complexity
If holding elements are made from plastic material, then the structure is simple, but the holding force is limited by material properties and cannot be adapted to different tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The metal spring element allows for parameter changes in terms of holding force by selecting different spring constants, wire diameters, or coil configurations. This enables the same basic structure to be adapted for different tasks and loading conditions without changing the overall design concept, providing versatility while maintaining structural simplicity.
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 solution provides a snap fastening system with increased holding force, resistance to vibrations, and ease of assembly/disassembly without tools, capable of accommodating various fitting shapes and sizes, independent of plastic material properties.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (44) which is arranged to store and release energy in the body part (26)
Implementation Method 2
a spring element (44) which is arranged to store and release energy
Implementation Method 3
The holding force of the holding elements or tongue elements which are formed integral with the body part depends upon their spring tension
Data Source
AI summary
The description relates to a snap fastening for mounting fittings such as socket wrench latches, swivel lever latches, hinge parts, handles, fixing brackets for door stops or flap supports in openings in a thin wall, comprising a head part which is to be arranged on one, outer side of the thin wall and which overlaps the outer rim of the opening, and a body part which proceeds from the head part and projects through the opening in the mounted position, and holding elements which project from the body part and are flexible in direction of its outer surface against spring force, the free end of these holding elements being provided with an inclined surface for supporting the body part without play on the rim or edge of the opening of the other, inner side of the thin wall, wherein the body part and holding element and the spring generating the spring force are separate parts.