Snap-In Mounting Interface With Universal Adapter Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick connect and disconnect device mounting apparatus are complex and limited to specific mating parts, lacking interchangeability and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A device mounting apparatus with multiple interchangeable male adapter bases featuring round-tipped diamond-patterned bases that fit into complementary receptacles, utilizing precision registration mechanisms and integral retaining lips for secure alignment and attachment, allowing for various connector structures such as fasteners, ball-and-socket mounts, and magnetic couplers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional snap-in type device mounting apparatus are used, then ease of installation and manufacturing cost are improved, but device complexity increases and interchangeability is limited to specific mating parts
Solution Approach 1:
The receiver is designed with a universal receptacle that can accommodate multiple different adapter bases through a common interface geometry (round-tipped diamond pattern). This allows a single receiver to perform multiple functions by accepting various adapter bases with different connector structures, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining ease of installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is segmented into modular components: a universal receiver and multiple interchangeable adapter bases. Each adapter base is a self-contained module with specific connector structures, allowing independent manufacturing and assembly. This segmentation enables easier manufacturing of individual components while the modular assembly reduces overall device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If traditional snap-in type device mounting apparatus are used, then ease of installation is improved, but interchangeability is limited to two specific mating parts
Solution Approach 1:
The receiver incorporates a universal receptacle designed to accept multiple different adapter bases through a standardized interface (round-tipped diamond pattern). This universal design enables interchangeability across multiple device types while maintaining the simple snap-in installation process, directly resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter base serves as an intermediary component between the universal receiver and various mounting devices. By introducing this intermediate element with a standardized interface, the system achieves broad interchangeability without compromising the simplicity of the original snap-in mechanism.
3Manufacturing precision
If precision registration mechanism with locating pins and detents is added, then positioning accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The precision registration features (locating pins, detents, and mating holes) are merged into the adapter base and receiver structures themselves rather than being separate components. This integration provides accurate positioning while minimizing additional complexity by combining multiple functions into unified structural elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A combination of quick connect and disconnect device mounting apparatus. Multiple different interchangeable male adapter bases are provided each having a round-tipped diamond-patterned male base plate that fits into and mates with a complementary round-tipped diamond-patterned receptacle formed in one of multiple different interchangeable female receivers. The complementary round-tipped diamond-patterned shapes drive the adapter's male base plate to become aligned and positioned relative to the receiver's female receptacle during assembly.