Snap-Fit Main Body Frame for Tool-Free Orthogonal Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
The snap-fit mechanism in electromagnetic contactors requires significant time and effort to release, risks damaging the flexible protruding plate portion due to the lack of a stopper, and is cumbersome when dealing with multiple connections, affecting workability.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a snap-fit mechanism that allows relative displacement between the first and second frames in an orthogonal direction to release the fitting, eliminating the need for tools and incorporating a relative displacement suppression mechanism to prevent frame misalignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the snap-fit mechanism uses a flexible protruding plate portion that is bent outward with a tool to release fitting, then the connection can be released, but it takes time and effort and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The release operation is performed automatically by the pushing operation. When the pushing operation is performed, the pushing portion pushes the flexible protruding plate portion inward, which automatically releases the engagement between the fitting portion and the fitting projection portion. This eliminates the need for separate manual bending operations with tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible protruding plate portion is pre-configured with the fitting portion that engages with the fitting projection portion. The structure is designed so that a simple pushing action on the pushing portion automatically triggers the release mechanism, eliminating the need for complex tool operations during the release phase.
2Ease of operation
If the flexible protruding plate portion is bent outward without a stopper, then the fitting can be released, but the flexible protruding plate portion may be broken due to excessive bending
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper is provided in advance to prevent excessive bending of the flexible protruding plate portion. The stopper limits the bending distance to a safe range, ensuring that the plate portion is never bent beyond its elastic limit. This protective measure is built into the structure before any release operation occurs.
3Reliability
If multiple snap-fit mechanisms are provided for connection, then the connection is secure, but it is necessary to simultaneously release all mechanisms which is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple snap-fit mechanisms are merged into a single operational system. The pushing operation on one pushing portion simultaneously triggers the release of all fitting portions through the interconnected structure. This combines multiple release actions into a single simple operation, making the system as easy to release as a single mechanism while maintaining the security of multiple connections.
4Reliability
If the first frame and second frame are brought into relative proximity for fitting, then the snap-fit mechanism connects securely, but frame misalignment may occur without suppression
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible protruding plate portion acts as an intermediary element between the first frame and second frame. During the fitting process, this flexible component can deform to accommodate minor misalignments and guide the fitting portion into proper engagement with the fitting projection portion. The stopper also serves as an intermediary that ensures precise positioning by limiting the movement distance.
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
Facilitates easier and faster replacement of components like the electromagnetic coil by eliminating the need for tools and reducing the risk of damage, while improving workability and maintaining frame alignment.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible protruding plate portion protruding from an open end side
Data Source
AI summary
The main body frame includes a first frame including a flexible protruding plate portion, a second frame facing the first frame in a first direction to form the housing section, and a snap-fit mechanism connecting the first frame to the second frame. The snap-fit mechanism includes a fitted portion provided on the flexible protruding plate portion and a fitting projection portion provided on a side wall of the second frame and fitting with the fitted portion. The fitting projection portion and the fitted portion are fitted by bringing the first and second frames into relative proximity in the first direction, and the fitting is released by relatively displacing the first and second frames in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction.