Variable Width Holder Device Using Rib-Channel Interference Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adjustable holding devices for objects on vehicles lack the ability to accommodate varying widths of different electronic devices, limiting their versatility and adaptability to different applications.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a first piece with a set of channels and a second piece with ribs that can be top-loaded into the channels, allowing for adjustable width configurations through the engagement of ribs with channels, providing an interference fit for secure retention and easy adjustment to fit various device widths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-width holder device is used, then the structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but the device cannot accommodate objects of varying widths
Solution Approach 1:
The holder device is divided into multiple segments or adjustable components that can be reconfigured to accommodate different widths. The holder includes adjustable side walls or positioning elements that can be moved independently to match the width of different electronic devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder transitions from a static fixed-width structure to a dynamic adjustable structure. The side walls or positioning elements can be moved along the holder body to change the internal width, allowing the same device to accommodate various object widths.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable holder device is used, then objects of different widths can be accommodated, but the risk of unintended disengagement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder incorporates a feedback mechanism through its retention system. When the adjustable side walls are moved to a new position, the retention elements (such as springs, clips, or locking mechanisms) automatically engage at the new position, providing immediate feedback that the adjustment is secured and preventing unintended disengagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder design includes preliminary anti-action through retention elements that are pre-configured to prevent disengagement. These elements (such as spring-loaded clips or interference-fit features) are designed to counteract any forces that might cause unintended disengagement before such disengagement can occur.
3Reliability
If multiple retention mechanisms are added to prevent disengagement, then retention security improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder combines multiple functions into integrated components. The retention mechanisms are merged with the adjustable side wall structure itself, rather than being separate additional components. For example, the side walls incorporate both the adjustment function and the retention function in a single integrated structure, reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention mechanisms are designed to be self-activating and self-locking. When the adjustable side walls are moved to a new position, the retention elements automatically engage without requiring additional actuators, motors, or complex control systems. The structure itself provides the retention force through elastic deformation or interference fit.
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 enables the adjustable device to securely hold objects of different widths, ensuring stability and adaptability across various applications, including boats, farm equipment, and other vehicles, while preventing unintended disengagement and allowing for easy attachment to cylindrical items.
Implementation Method 1
The adjustable device may be configured to use one of several options for the width... providing an interference fit for secure retention
Data Source
AI summary
A process for mounting an object within an adjustable device. The adjustable device can in turn be attached to a vehicle to hold the object to the vehicle. This adjustable device may be made larger or smaller to accommodate different sizes of objects. The adjustment of the adjustable device comes from the interaction of a set of one or more ribs on one piece with a set of channels on another piece.