U-Shaped Fastening Device for Corrosion-Protected Panel Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fastening devices for vehicles are prone to damage during disassembly, compromise corrosion protection, and aesthetically unsatisfactory, with challenges in precise positioning and secure attachment of panels and cables.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device with a U-shaped design featuring resilient side sections, snap-fit mechanisms, and cable routing features, which securely attaches to a carrier without damaging corrosion coatings and allows for easy attachment and detachment of panels and cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hole is drilled in the carrier to attach the fastening device, then the fastening device can be securely attached to the carrier, but the corrosion protection coating on the carrier is damaged and the carrier becomes exposed to corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening device is divided into multiple functional components: a fastening element that engages with the carrier, a covering element that seals the attachment area, and integrated cable management components. This segmentation allows the covering element to protect the corrosion-prone hole area while the fastening element provides secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a covering element as an intermediary component that seals the hole in the carrier. This covering element acts as a mediator between the fastening device and the carrier, preventing direct exposure of the carrier to corrosion while maintaining the attachment function.
2Reliability
If the fastening device is designed for secure attachment, then it provides reliable fastening, but it becomes visible from the outside and spoils the external appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The covering element serves as an aesthetic intermediary that conceals the fastening device and carrier attachment area from external view. It maintains the visual integrity of the carrier surface while the fastening device performs its attachment function underneath.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening device, covering element, and cable management components are nested within each other in a compact arrangement. The covering element encapsulates the fastening mechanism, creating a nested structure that is aesthetically pleasing while maintaining functional integrity.
3Ease of manufacture
If elements such as cables are attached using glue, then they can be attached to the carrier, but it is difficult to precisely define their position and they may slip
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces adhesive bonding with a mechanical snap-fit system. The cable management components feature snap-fit connections that engage with corresponding features on the carrier, providing precise positioning and secure attachment without relying on glue.
4Ease of operation
If the fastening device is designed for easy attachment and detachment, then it can be quickly assembled and disassembled, but it may be damaged during disassembly and cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening device employs dynamic snap-fit connections that allow for easy attachment and detachment through controlled deformation and recovery. The resilient components can deform during assembly and disassembly but return to their original shape, enabling repeated use without damage.
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 solution provides a secure, backlash-free attachment system that protects against corrosion, ensures precise positioning, and hides the fastening device from view, reducing assembly errors and improving overall installation efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The side sections themselves can be resilient and/or be designed to be resilient relative to the middle section
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The device (1) has two side sections (20, 30) extending from ends of a center section (10), and partially covering a carrier. A fastening unit fastens the device at the carrier. A retaining unit retains a mounting- or lining portion that partially surrounds the device. A cable receiving unit receives a cable that is guided at the carrier. The fastening unit comprises a racing or snatching device, which is engaged in a hole of the carrier for securing the fastening device at the carrier, where the racing or snatching device comprises a circular detent (21, 31). An independent claim is also included for a system comprises a fastening device.