Two-Stage Fastening for Building Shading Device Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for fastening building opening shading devices, such as Venetian blinds, are difficult to install, lack reliability, and provide insufficient security, often requiring manual holding and additional tools during assembly.
Innovation Solution
A fastening arrangement with resilient locking lugs and manually operable locking bolts that automatically secure the functional unit upon insertion, allowing easy assembly and providing double fall protection without additional tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single-stage fastening system is used (as in DE 10 2004 016 545 A1 and DE 20 2006 004 608 U1), then the installation process is simplified, but the security and reliability of the fastening is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is divided into two independent stages: a first retaining claw that provides initial retention during insertion, and a second locking claw that provides final secure locking. This segmentation allows each stage to perform its specific function optimally, with the first claw enabling easy insertion and the second claw ensuring reliable security.
Solution Approach 2:
The first retaining claw performs a preliminary retention action during the insertion process, holding the functional unit temporarily before the second locking claw engages. This preliminary action ensures that the functional unit is secured in an intermediate position, preventing it from falling during the transition to the final locked state.
2Reliability
If manual holding is required during insertion (as in EP 2 500 507 B1), then the locking mechanism can engage properly, but the installation becomes difficult and strenuous
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is designed to be self-servicing during installation. The first retaining claw automatically engages with the functional unit during insertion, providing self-retention without requiring manual holding. The spring-loaded mechanism automatically activates during the insertion process, eliminating the need for installers to manually support the functional unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining claws are spring-loaded, allowing them to dynamically adapt during insertion. The first retaining claw can flex outward to accommodate the functional unit during insertion, then automatically snaps into the retained position, providing dynamic assistance throughout the installation process without manual intervention.
3Reliability
If additional locking mechanisms are added to improve security (as in DE 10 2004 016 545 A1), then fastening reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Both the first retaining claw and the second locking claw are integrated into a single fastening bracket, sharing common mounting structures and spring mechanisms. This merging allows the two-stage fastening system to provide enhanced security without proportionally increasing overall device complexity, as both functions are combined within one compact bracket assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening bracket is designed as a multi-functional component that provides both retention and locking functions. The first retaining claw handles the retention function during insertion, while the second locking claw handles the final locking function, allowing a single bracket to perform multiple fastening operations that would otherwise require separate devices.
4Ease of operation
If spring-loaded locking connections are used (as in DE 10 2004 016 545 A1), then automatic locking is achieved, but unintentional disengagement can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic spring-loaded locking is segmented into two independent claws with different functions. The first retaining claw provides automatic retention during insertion, while the second locking claw provides a more stable, secondary locking action. This segmentation ensures that if one claw experiences issues, the other provides backup security, preventing unintentional disengagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The first retaining claw acts as a cushioning or backup mechanism before the second locking claw fully engages. It provides an intermediate secure state that prevents the functional unit from disengaging if the second locking claw fails to engage properly or experiences unintended release, thereby cushioning against potential reliability issues.
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
Enables simple, tool-free installation and secure fixation of shading devices, ensuring reliable positioning and compensation for manufacturing and assembly tolerances.
Implementation Method 1
A fastening arrangement with resilient locking lugs and manually operable locking bolts that automatically secure the functional unit upon insertion
Data Source
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AI summary
In a system for fastening a functional unit (4) of a building opening shading device in an associated, downwardly open receiving space (3) of a building-side enclosure, with a fastening bracket arrangement pre-assembled in the receiving space (3) of the enclosure, comprising at least one downwardly open, U-shaped fastening bracket (13) and a box (5) associated with the functional unit (4), which can be inserted into the fastening bracket arrangement from below and secured thereto in the inserted state, universal applicability is achieved by providing, on the one-to-one-side elements in the form of the fastening bracket arrangement and the box (5), at least one locking bolt (17) having a horizontal locking edge (24) and, on the other hand, an associated insertion recess (18) having a horizontal limiting edge facing the locking edge (24) on the bolt side.wherein the locking bolt (17) is movable with an end region beyond the boundary of the receiving element facing the associated insertion recess (18) and can be brought into engagement in the associated insertion recess (18) of the other element.