Tool-Free Fastening Element for Motor Vehicle Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening methods for elongated objects in motor vehicles, such as electric cables and fluid transport lines, require tools for removal and reinstallation, risking damage to support elements during maintenance and repair.
Innovation Solution
A releasable fastening system comprising a fastening element with a locking mechanism and a receiving element, allowing the elongated object to be securely attached and detached without tools, using a cable clip and unlocking lever to engage and disengage from a fixed point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cable binders or similar fastening means are used to secure conductors to edge clips, then the conductors can be firmly fastened, but tools are required for removal and reinstallation, and the edge clips can be damaged during maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into separate functional components: a fastening element with locking mechanism that can be independently attached to the elongated object, and a receiving element fixed to the support. This segmentation allows the fastening element to be easily detached and reattached without affecting the support structure, eliminating the need for tools while preventing damage to the support element.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening element acts as an intermediary component between the elongated object and the support. It provides a reversible connection mechanism that mediates the attachment and detachment operations, allowing easy maintenance while maintaining secure fastening during operation. The locking mechanism on the fastening element enables tool-free operation without directly engaging with or potentially damaging the support structure.
2Reliability
If tools are used to remove and reinstall conductors from support elements, then secure attachment can be achieved, but the support elements are at risk of damage during separation
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening element incorporates a self-contained locking mechanism that enables operators to perform maintenance operations without external tools. The lever-based locking and unlocking mechanism allows the fastening element to secure and release the elongated object through simple manual manipulation, making the system self-sufficient for maintenance operations while ensuring reliable attachment during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is pre-configured on the fastening element during manufacturing, eliminating the need for tools during maintenance operations. The lever is positioned and designed to engage with the locking mechanism in advance, allowing operators to simply manipulate the lever to lock or unlock the fastening element without requiring additional tools or risking damage to support elements.
3Strength
If conventional fastening methods are used, then the elongated object can be firmly secured, but the fastening elements may be damaged during repeated separation and connection
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening element incorporates a dynamic locking mechanism with a movable lever that can transition between locked and unlocked states. This dynamic design allows the fastening element to maintain strong attachment during operation while enabling easy and repeated detachment and reattachment. The lever mechanism provides controlled engagement and disengagement without applying excessive force that could damage the fastening element or support over multiple cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of designing the support element with a complex release mechanism requiring tools, the invention inverts the approach by placing a simple lever-based locking mechanism on the fastening element itself. This allows the fastening element to control its own attachment and detachment, enabling repeated maintenance operations without wearing out or damaging either the fastening element or the support structure.
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement for fastening at least one elongated object (1) in a motor vehicle is suggested, where by means of a fastening means (4) the elongated object (1) is attached to at least one fixed point on the fastening element (2). The fastening element (2) is releasably connectable to the receiving element (3) and fixedly mounted at the fixed point.