Universal Line Retainer Structure for Multiple Line Diameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle retainers require multiple sizes to secure differently-sized electrical wiring and tubing lines, increasing inventory, assembly time, and costs due to their limited compatibility with various line sizes.
Innovation Solution
A line retainer with a flexible, semi-rigid design featuring adjustable arms and legs that can accommodate a range of line diameters from 8 to 12 millimeters, allowing secure retention of lines with varying sizes using a single unit by flexing to fit different diameters and resisting removal until a suitable extraction force is applied.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple differently-sized retainers are used to secure various lines, then each line size can be securely retained, but inventory complexity and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer is designed with a universal slot configuration that can accommodate multiple line sizes (e.g., 10mm, 12mm, 14mm diameters) through a single retainer type, eliminating the need for multiple differently-sized retainers while maintaining secure retention for each line size
2Reliability
If multiple differently-sized retainers are used to secure various lines, then each line size can be securely retained, but assembly time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The universal retainer design allows assembly workers to use a single retainer type for all line sizes, reducing the time needed to select and install the correct retainer size, thereby increasing assembly speed and reducing labor costs
3Device complexity
If a single retainer size is used for all lines, then inventory and assembly are simplified, but secure retention of all line sizes cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer incorporates locally varied features within the slot structure, such as adjustable engagement points or flexible elements at specific positions, allowing the same retainer body to adapt to different line diameters while maintaining secure retention through localized adjustments
4Reliability
If various retainer configurations are used for different line sizes, then secure retention is achieved, but stocking time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The universal retainer design consolidates multiple retainer types into a single stockable unit, eliminating the need to maintain separate inventory for different retainer sizes and reducing the time required for stocking and warehouse management
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 reduces the need for multiple retainer sizes, streamlines inventory and assembly processes, and lowers costs by enabling secure retention of variously sized lines with a single retainer, enhancing efficiency and reducing the complexity of vehicle assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a first set of resilient opposing arms extending into the line-receiving slot from the first and second side walls and a set of resilient opposing legs extending into the line-receiving slot from the first and second side walls adjacent the front end
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a line retainer including a body that includes a first side wall and a second side wall spaced apart from the first side wall. The side walls at least partially define a slot configured to receive any one of a plurality of differently-sized lines. The side walls define an opening of the slot. The line retainer includes a set of opposing legs extending into the slot from the first and second side walls adjacent the front and rear support walls and a first set of opposing arms extending into the slot from the first and second side walls adjacent the opening. The line retainer includes a second set of opposing arms extending into the slot from the first and second side walls between the first set of opposing arms and the set of opposing legs.