Snap-Fit Partition Mounting With Hidden Clip Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing partition mounting systems require complex installation processes due to bulky partitions and visible clips that necessitate additional covers, complicating the assembly and aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A method and kit for mounting partitions using snap-fit means, involving clips and openings on the partition edges and support faces, allowing for simplified assembly and adjustment, with clips that snap-fit into elongated openings for precise positioning and hidden fastening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If clips are used to secure the partition to the profile, then the partition is firmly fixed, but the clips remain visible and require additional covers
Solution Approach 1:
The visible clip component is extracted from the final assembly by integrating it into the profile structure itself. The profile is designed with recesses that directly receive and hide the clips, eliminating the need for separate visible fastening elements and their covers.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip and profile are merged into a unified structure where the clip becomes an integral part of the profile's fastening system. The profile incorporates recesses that directly accommodate the clips, combining what were previously separate visible components into a single hidden integration.
2Strength
If traditional fixing methods are used for bulky partitions, then the partition is securely mounted, but the installation process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The profile is pre-designed with integrated recesses positioned at specific locations along its length. These recesses are prepared in advance to directly receive the clips, eliminating the need for on-site measurement, marking, and creation of mounting positions during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The partition's own weight and the spring action of the clips work together to achieve secure mounting. The clips are designed to be inserted and then automatically spring into the recesses, using the partition's bulk and gravity to ensure firm engagement without requiring additional fastening operations.
3Strength
If multiple manipulation steps are required for partition assembly, then secure mounting is achieved, but the process becomes less ergonomic and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into distinct functional elements: the profile with integrated recesses, the clips with spring action, and the partition with attachment points. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining secure mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring active fastening operations to secure the partition, the system is designed so that the partition's own weight and the passive spring action of the clips achieve the mounting. The clips spring into the recesses automatically, inverting the traditional approach where fasteners are actively driven or screwed into place.
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 easy and ergonomic partition mounting with reduced manipulation steps, enabling hidden fastening and improved aesthetics by eliminating visible clips and simplifying the assembly process.
Implementation Method 1
fixing means comprising at least one clip and at least one opening delimited by a contour configured to cooperate by snap-fit with the at least one clip
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method of mounting a partition against at least one support face (10a) of a flat support (9a), the partition comprising two principal faces essentially parallel and connected for a contour, said contour comprising, at least three slices, for example four slices, the mounting method comprising fixing at least one of the slices against at least one support face (10a) with fixing means, said fixing means comprising at least one clip (11c) and at least one opening delimited by a contour configured to cooperate by snap-fit with the at least one clip (11c), the at least one clip (11c) being fixed on one of the support face (10a) or of the slice considered, while the opening is formed on the other of the support face (10a) or of said slice.