Magnetically Released Snap-In Holder With Stable Locking Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holding devices rely on magnetic forces for both locking and unlocking, which can lead to unwanted disengagement and require play for release, compromising security and stability.
Innovation Solution
A holding device with movable locking elements that are not affected by magnetic forces, using a spring-biased locking mechanism that remains engaged until manually released by a magnetic field, eliminating the need for play and ensuring secure retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If magnetic force is used to hold and release the component, then the release process is automated and easy to operate, but the locking position becomes unstable and may disengage accidentally
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent parts: locking elements (ferromagnetic metal discs) that remain stationary and are not affected by magnetic force, and locking means (pistons with magnets) that are movable and controlled by magnetic force. This segmentation allows the locking elements to maintain stable engagement while the locking means provides automated control through magnetic actuation.
2Ease of operation
If play is introduced between holding device and component to enable release, then the release mechanism can function, but the connection becomes less secure and stable
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means are designed to be movable relative to the locking elements, with the piston able to move axially within the holding device. This dynamic design allows the locking means to be actuated by magnetic force for release while maintaining a secure, play-free connection during the locked state, as the locking elements remain firmly engaged with the component.
3Device complexity
If locking elements are made completely unsecured after engagement, then the release process is simplified, but the component may fall off accidentally
Solution Approach 1:
The locking elements are designed to remain in their engaged position even after the locking means are actuated by magnetic force. This preliminary anti-action ensures that the component cannot fall off accidentally, as the locking elements maintain their engagement until deliberately released by removing the component entirely from the holding device.
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 provides secure, reliable, and stable component retention without the need for play, preventing accidental disengagement and allowing controlled release through magnetic activation.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet is brought close to exert a magnetic force on the semi-ring-shaped metal discs, causing them to tilt and disengage from the annular groove
Implementation Method 2
a spring element that biases the locking element towards its locked position. The movement of the locking element into its release position caused by the magnetic force then occurs against the spring force of the spring element.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a holding device (10) for holding a component (12), wherein the holding device (10) can be switched from a component-holding mode to a component-release mode by magnetic force. According to the invention, the holding device (10) for holding the component (12) has movable locking elements (14) whose position is not affected by the magnetic force. The invention also relates to a method for releasing a snap-in connection between a holding device (10), in particular a holding device (10) according to the invention, and a component (12), comprising the following steps: generating a magnetic field near the holding device (10); and applying a force that moves the holding device (10) and the component (12) apart to release the snap-in connection.