Snap-Fit Mounting for Electrical Harnesses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting solutions for electrical distribution harness assemblies in modular wall panels require fasteners, multiple parts, and tools, making them complex and difficult to install.
Innovation Solution
A snap-fit mounting apparatus using an elastic clip bracket that integrates with the modular wall panel without the need for fasteners, featuring a pre-formed metal clip that is insert molded with the electrical connector block, allowing for easy installation and reduced part count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fastening methods are used to mount electrical distribution harness assemblies, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation complexity increases and tool requirements arise
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical distribution harness assembly is merged with the mounting bracket into a single integrated unit. The bracket is formed as one piece with the channel and connector blocks, eliminating the need for separate fasteners and reducing the number of parts that need to be assembled during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket incorporates self-contained mounting projections that directly engage with the wall panel without requiring external fasteners. The resilient retainer with lips automatically engages the bracket to the panel through a snap-fit mechanism, making the system self-mounting and tool-free.
2Reliability
If multiple separate parts are used for mounting, then attachment security is achieved, but the number of parts increases and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The channel, connector blocks, and mounting bracket are combined into a single integrated assembly. This merging of components reduces the total number of parts from multiple separate elements to one unified structure that can be installed as a single unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting projections and resilient retainers are pre-formed as integral parts of the bracket during manufacturing. This preliminary formation of mounting features eliminates the need for on-site assembly of multiple components, reducing installation time while maintaining secure attachment.
3Strength
If traditional mounting methods are used, then secure fastening is achieved, but the number of parts increases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is manufactured as a single integrated piece combining the channel, connector blocks, and mounting features. This merging eliminates the need to manufacture and assemble multiple separate fastening components, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining fastening strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket material is selected to have resilient properties that enable the snap-fit mounting mechanism. By changing the material parameters to include elasticity, the bracket can deform during installation and then retain the mounted position securely, achieving strong fastening through material properties rather than multiple mechanical fasteners.
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 enables quick and tool-free installation of electrical distribution harness assemblies, simplifying the mounting process and reducing the number of separate parts required, while maintaining secure attachment to the wall panel.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electrical connector including an elastic clip bracket configured for snap-fitting to the modular wall panel
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical distribution harness assembly configured for coupling with a modular wall panel includes at least one electrical connector including a body and an elastic clip bracket configured for snap-fitting to the modular wall panel, the body forming an overmolded connection with the elastic clip bracket.