Translating Retention Clip for Single-Fastener Component Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and cost associated with attaching vehicle components using multiple fastening means, such as retention clips and separate screws, complicate the assembly process and increase production time due to packaging, vehicle, and component constraints.
Innovation Solution
A retention clip with a first portion that temporarily deforms upon insertion into a mounting location, a second portion for attaching to a component, and a third portion that abuts against the component to translate along an attachment axis, allowing for locating and securing the component with a single fastener in two stages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple fastening means (retention clips and separate screws) are used to attach vehicle components, then the component can be securely mounted, but the assembly process becomes complex and production time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retention clip and separate screw into a single integrated fastening device. The retention clip includes an engagement portion that attaches to the component and a fastening portion that receives the screw, eliminating the need for separate fastening means and simplifying the assembly process while maintaining secure mounting
2Reliability
If multiple fastening means are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but production time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the retention clip and screw into a single fastening device, the number of assembly steps is reduced. The single fastening device can be installed in one operation rather than requiring separate installation of multiple fasteners, thereby reducing production time while maintaining secure mounting
3Reliability
If multiple fastening means are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of the retention clip and screw into a single fastening device reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled. This consolidation reduces material costs, manufacturing complexity, and assembly costs, thereby lowering overall manufacturing cost while maintaining secure mounting
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
This solution simplifies the assembly process by reducing the number of parts required, lowering costs, and reducing assembly time while providing a high clamping force between the component and the mounting location.
Implementation Method 1
a first portion configured to temporarily deform upon insertion into a slot of a mounting location and prevent the retention clip from retracting through the slot once inserted
Implementation Method 2
a third portion configured to abut against a surface of the component and deform such that the first portion and the second portion are translated along an attachment axis toward the component
Data Source
AI summary
A retention clip is described herein. The retention clip has a first portion configured to temporarily deform upon insertion into a slot of a mounting location and prevent the retention clip from retracting through the slot once inserted. The retention clip also has a second portion configured to attach the retention clip to a component via a first torque of a fastener interfacing with the second portion. The retention clip further has a third portion configured to abut against a surface of the component and deform under s second torque of the fastener such that the first portion and the second portion are translated along an attachment axis toward the component. The retention clip allows for locating and securing the component with a single fastener via two stages. Accordingly, mounting of the component may be cheaper, less complex, and quicker.