Snap-Fit Plug-In Connection for Foam-Tight Climate Chamber Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-in connection systems often have large tolerances, resulting in loose connections between metal sheets, which do not form a tight seal, and require additional measures to prevent foam from escaping during curing.
Innovation Solution
A plug-in connection system with bendable elements featuring a snap-in locking mechanism, where a spacer segment and securement segment form orthogonal angles, enabling a tight, foam-tight connection without additional assembly steps, utilizing a snap-in locking projection that engages an undercut in the securement segment, ensuring a reliable and secure fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional plug-in connection systems are used to connect metal sheets, then the assembly process is simple, but large tolerances result in loose connections that do not form a tight seal
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element is divided into multiple functional segments: a base body for insertion, a spacer segment for positioning and tolerance compensation, and a securement segment with locking projections for tight connection. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally while achieving overall connection precision
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism transitions from simple linear insertion to multi-dimensional engagement through orthogonal folds creating perpendicular segments. The spacer segment extends in one dimension for positioning, while locking projections engage in perpendicular dimensions, creating a three-dimensional locking mechanism that ensures tight connection
2Reliability
If conventional plug-in connections are used, then assembly is straightforward, but additional measures are required to prevent foam escape during curing
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element's orthogonal geometry and snap-fit mechanism automatically create a tight seal when inserted, eliminating the need for additional foam containment measures. The structure self-adjusts to compensate for tolerances and inherently prevents foam escape during curing operations
3Manufacturing precision
If metal sheets with large tolerances are connected using conventional methods, then material selection is simple, but the connection is not tight and requires additional measures
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element utilizes variable geometric parameters including fold angles, segment lengths, and locking projection dimensions that can be adjusted to compensate for metal sheet tolerances. These parameter variations allow the same connection design to accommodate different material tolerances while maintaining tight connections
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system effectively creates a composite structure by integrating the metal base body with folded spacer and securement segments, combining different functional properties in a single integrated component that achieves both tolerance compensation and tight connection
Data Source
AI summary
Plug-in connection system with at least one first element of a bendable first base body and one second element of a bendable second base body. The first base body can include can include an undercut into which a snap-in locking projection of the bendable first base body snaps into a securement segment of the bendable second base body. The first element and the second element can be developed as components of a climate or temperature chamber.