Snap-Fit Switch Mounting Base for Fewer Fasteners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting solutions for electrical switching packages are time-consuming, costly, and occupy a large area, as they require multiple fasteners and standardized mounting tracks that are not compatible with all switch packages, such as the T9A relay package, and can be expensive.
Innovation Solution
A mounting base with inverted receptacles that use snap-fit engagement and resilient arms to secure switch packages with diagonally located fasteners, reducing the number of fasteners needed and minimizing the footprint, while allowing for secure and stable mounting of multiple switch packages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If standardized mounting tracks are used to simplify mounting, then mounting time is reduced, but compatibility with all switch packages is lost and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting base is designed with a universal receptacle structure that can accommodate multiple switch package types (different widths, shapes, and cross-sections) through a single standardized interface. The receptacle features resilient arms and adjustable fastening mechanisms that adapt to various package dimensions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized mounting tracks while maintaining compatibility across different switch package models.
2Reliability
If multiple fasteners are used to securely mount switch packages, then mounting stability is improved, but installation time increases and footprint is enlarged
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting base combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated receptacle structure. The resilient arms work together with a unified fastening mechanism to provide secure mounting of switch packages, replacing the need for multiple separate fasteners. This merging of fastening functions maintains mounting stability while reducing the number of fastening operations required during installation.
3Ease of operation
If standardized mounting tracks are used, then mounting simplicity is improved, but footprint area increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting base is segmented into multiple independent receptacles that can be closely arranged on a compact footprint. Each receptacle is a self-contained unit with its own resilient arms and fastening mechanism, allowing for dense packing of switch packages without requiring the excessive spacing needed by traditional mounting tracks. This segmentation enables simple mounting operations while minimizing the overall area occupied.
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 faster, cheaper, and more secure mounting of switch packages with reduced installation time and footprint, using fewer fasteners and accommodating various switch package sizes, while allowing for easy removal and pre-wiring options.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the first and second receptacles may comprise a pair of resilient arms contacting an edge of the mounting flange of the switch package when installed to the base
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting base for switch packages having a mounting flange is provided. The base includes a body having a first receptacle and a second receptacle, and each of the first and second receptacle is configured to accept a mounting flange of the switch package with snap-fit engagement. The first and the second receptacles are inverted relative to one another and allow mounting of the switch package with a fewer number of fasteners.