Snap-Lock Solenoid Valve Fixation for Uniform Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solenoid valve fixation methods in automated manual transmissions require multiple screws and bushings, leading to tolerance issues and complex mounting processes, with inconsistent clamping forces and increased manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A snap-fit valve fixation device with integrally formed legs that engage a snap-fit interface on the valve block, allowing for preassembled mounting and simplified access to electrical connectors, reducing the need for screws and bushings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If threaded screws and bushings are used to fix solenoid valves, then the solenoid valves can be securely attached to the valve block, but the mounting process becomes complex and time-consuming with multiple components and tolerance chains
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (screws and bushings) into a single integrated fixation device. The fixation device includes a plate body with integrated legs that directly engage with the valve block, eliminating the need for separate bushings and screws. This merging reduces the number of parts from 28 components to a single unified structure, simplifying the mounting process while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation device is segmented into functional zones: a plate body for covering the solenoid valves, legs for engagement with the valve block, and integrated bushings for precise positioning. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while being part of a unified structure, reducing overall complexity.
2Force
If multiple screws and bushings are provided for each solenoid valve, then the clamping force can be controlled, but the tolerance chain increases leading to inconsistent clamping forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the clamping force control function into the integrated legs of the fixation device. The legs are designed with specific geometries that directly engage with corresponding features on the valve block, creating a deterministic force transmission path. This eliminates the cumulative tolerance effects of multiple separate components, ensuring consistent clamping forces across all solenoid valves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the legs and engagement features to optimize clamping force distribution. By carefully designing the leg dimensions, engagement surface areas, and material properties, the system achieves uniform clamping forces without requiring multiple adjustment parameters or components.
3Reliability
If threaded screws are used to secure the fixation plate, then the solenoid valves are firmly fixed, but accessing electrical connectors for soldering becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fixation device into a plate body and legs, with the plate body positioned to cover the solenoid valves while the legs extend to engage the valve block. This segmentation allows the plate body to provide secure coverage while maintaining open access to the electrical connectors on the sides of the solenoid valves, eliminating the need to detach screws for soldering operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional plate to a three-dimensional structure with legs extending perpendicular to the plate body. This dimensional change allows the fixation device to secure the solenoid valves firmly against the valve block while leaving the electrical connectors accessible from the sides, resolving the conflict between fixation security and connector accessibility.
4Reliability
If 28 screws and 28 bushings are used for 14 solenoid valves, then each valve can be individually clamped, but the manufacturing and assembly complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges 28 separate components (screws and bushings) into a single integrated fixation device with multiple legs. Each leg provides individual clamping capability, but all legs are part of one unified structure that can be manufactured as a single piece or pre-assembled unit. This dramatically reduces manufacturing steps, inventory requirements, and assembly complexity while maintaining individual valve clamping capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a valve fixation device (30, 300) for fixing solenoid valves (8, 12) to a valve block (4), which comprises a plate body (34) having a air exhaust opening (18) for granting access to said solenoid valves (8, 12), at least a first leg (36) at a first side (37) of said plate body (34) extending substantially perpendicular therefrom, and at least a second leg (38) at a second side (39) of said plate body (34) opposite said first side (37) extending substantially perpendicular therefrom, wherein the first leg (36) and the second leg (38) are configured to attach said solenoid valves (8, 12). According to the invention, said first leg (36) has a snap-fit element (40) configured to engage a corresponding snap-fit interface (52, 55) provided at a side portion (50, 54) of said valve block (4) when in a mounted state.