Snap-Fit Lock Link Unit for Glove Compartment Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing lock devices for glove compartments are cumbersome to attach due to the need for screwing a support plate to the lid using small screws, making the installation process complicated and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A lock device with a link unit that includes a rotary member and elastic engagement pieces, allowing easy attachment to an installation surface by engaging the elastic pieces with a holding portion, eliminating the need for screws and providing increased layout flexibility and a thinner installation space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the support plate is attached to the lid using multiple screws, then the link unit is securely fixed, but the attaching work becomes complicated and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional screw-based mechanical fastening system with a snap-fit engagement system. The link unit includes engagement protrusions that fit into engagement recesses on the support plate, allowing the link unit to be securely attached by simply placing it on the support plate without requiring any screws or additional fastening operations. This substitution maintains secure fixation while dramatically simplifying the attaching process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the link unit is integrated with the manipulation unit, then the structure is more compact, but the layout flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the lock device into separate functional modules: the manipulation unit and the link unit. The link unit is designed as an independent component that can be freely positioned and attached to the support plate at different locations. This segmentation allows the link unit to be optimally positioned for each specific application without being constrained by integration with the manipulation unit, thereby maximizing layout flexibility while maintaining manageable structural complexity.
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 lock device can be easily attached by simply placing the link unit on the surface and engaging the elastic pieces, reducing installation complexity and allowing for a more compact design with increased layout freedom.
Implementation Method 1
one of the base portion and the holding portion is formed with a bendable elastic engagement piece or pieces
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a lock device for an opening/closing body that is attached to an opening portion of a fixed body so as to be openable and closable. The lock device includes lock portions, a pair of rods, a manipulation unit, and a link unit. The opening/closing body or the fixed body has an installation surface on which the link unit is installed, and the installation surface is provided with a holding portion which holds the link unit. One of the base portion and the holding portion is formed with a bendable elastic engagement piece or pieces, and the base portion is installed on the installation surface as a result of the elastic engagement piece or pieces being engaged with the other of the base portion and the holding portion.