Toolless Engine Cover Fastener Wedge Latching Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional engine cover mounting systems require tools for installation, leading to increased manufacturing and assembly costs, noise and vibration issues, and compromised aesthetics due to complex part counts and space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A toolless engine cover system featuring a tubular socket with a fixed wedge and retractable wedge mechanism, allowing for easy installation and secure retention without tools, using a handle block and biaser to engage and disengage the wedges for latching and unlatching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional fasteners with tools are used, then secure retention is achieved, but installation complexity and part count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated fastener component that includes a socket, wedge mechanism, and latching feature. This eliminates the need for separate brackets, fasteners, and joining structures, reducing part count while maintaining secure retention capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener is designed as a toolless system where the wedge mechanism automatically latches when the engine cover is installed. The biaser provides automatic engagement force, eliminating the need for external tools or complex installation procedures while ensuring secure retention.
2Reliability
If multiple intermediate components are used, then attachment security is improved, but NVH problems increase
Solution Approach 1:
By consolidating multiple intermediate components into a single integrated fastener, the patent reduces the number of potential NVH problem sites. The unified structure eliminates interfaces between separate brackets and fasteners that could generate squeaks and rattles, while maintaining attachment security through the wedge-latching mechanism.
3Strength
If tools are required for fastener installation, then secure fastening is achieved, but space constraints and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The toolless fastener design eliminates the need for wrenches or drivers during installation. The biaser automatically provides the necessary engagement force when the engine cover is positioned, simplifying the assembly process and reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining fastening security through the wedge-latching mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the tool requirement from the fastening process by designing a self-actuating mechanism. The biaser and wedge system automatically engages without external tools, eliminating the need for clearance space around fasteners and reducing assembly complexity.
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 system simplifies installation, reduces part count, enhances noise attenuation, and lowers costs while providing reliable retention under vibration, with easy verification of proper installation and low installation force.
Implementation Method 1
A biaser engages the engine cover and handle block urging the handle block away from the cam cover
Implementation Method 2
The fixed wedge and retractable wedge are engageable when the main body is rotationally within a locking region and axially slid toward the cam cover
Data Source
AI summary
A decorative engine cover is mounted to an engine using fasteners not requiring the use of any tools. A cam cover has a tubular socket with an inner surface defining a cavity including a fixed wedge and a longitudinal bumper projecting into the cavity. A removable engine cover defines an recess receiving the tubular socket and an aperture aligned with the cavity. A handle block comprises a main body with a lower end rotatable and axially slidable in the cavity, an upper flange, and a retractable wedge projecting radially from the main body. A biaser engages the engine cover and handle block urging the block away from the cam cover. The wedges are engageable when the main body is rotationally within a locking region and axially slid toward the cam cover. The fixed wedge and retractable wedge disengage when the main body is rotated out of the locking region.