Two-Piece Clip Assembly for Reliable Leak Detector Mesh Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting electronics to leak detection meshes in water heaters face challenges in consistently locating and securing wires, leading to inconsistent resistance readings and potential failures in detecting leaks.
Innovation Solution
A clip design that consists of two pieces, which can be assembled around a mesh to securely hold off-the-shelf terminals in place, allowing for easy installation and ensuring consistent contact for resistance detection, activating a motor to shut off the valve when a leak is sensed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wires are attached to the mesh using existing methods, then the leak detection function can be implemented, but the wire location consistency and connection reliability are poor
Solution Approach 1:
A clip is introduced as an intermediary component between the mesh and the wires. The clip has a body with a channel that receives the mesh, and terminals that connect to the wires. This intermediary structure ensures consistent positioning and reliable electrical connection, eliminating the need for direct wire attachment to the mesh while improving both connection reliability and manufacturing precision.
2Reliability
If a clip structure is used to secure terminals to the mesh, then the connection reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clip combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: the body with channel provides mechanical support and mesh retention, while the terminals provide electrical connection. This merging of structural and electrical functions into one piece reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high connection reliability.
3Ease of operation
If the clip is designed to be assembled around the mesh, then the ease of installation improves, but the manufacturing precision of the assembly may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The clip is designed as an openable structure that can be segmented into different states (open for assembly, closed for operation). The body can be opened to receive the mesh and terminals, then closed to secure them in precise positions. This segmentation allows easy installation while the closed state ensures precise alignment and consistent electrical contact, resolving the contradiction between ease of installation and assembly precision.
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 clip design enhances the reliability of leak detection by ensuring consistent electrical contact and efficient activation of the valve, improving the accuracy and effectiveness of leak detection in water heaters.
Implementation Method 1
When water is present in the mesh, the water via capillary action moves toward the two sets of wires.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric clip, such as may be utilized with a leak detector, has a base which receives an insert to secure an inserted material, such as a mesh, there between. The insert has an arm with opposing hooks which pass through a first slot in a biased manner and then spring out once through to provide an assembled configuration. The clip can be secured to the material, such as by directing fingers through a second slot in a biased manner which then return once through to retain on a ledge.