Monolithic Wire Mounting Clip for Secure Actuator-Valve Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting solutions for actuator units on valve units, such as fork-shaped splints, are complex and expensive to manufacture, and existing mounting clips are not suitable for replacing these splints.
Innovation Solution
A novel mounting clip configured with straight sections to fit into grooves on the actuator unit and a U-shaped section to fit into a recess on the valve unit, with bent and angled subsections connecting these sections, all made from a monolithic metal wire.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fork-shaped splint is used to fix the actuator unit on the valve unit, then reliable fixation is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting clip is divided into multiple functional sections: first sections for engaging grooves on the actuator unit, a second U-shaped section for engaging the recess on the valve unit flange, and third connecting sections with bent and straight/angled subsections. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while keeping the overall structure simple and manufacturable from a single metal wire.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting clip utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement with sections positioned at different levels (first level, second level, third level) and various orientations (parallel, bent, angled). This dimensional approach enables the clip to simultaneously engage multiple features of the actuator unit and valve unit, achieving reliable fixation without requiring a complex multi-component assembly.
2Reliability
If a fork-shaped splint is used to fix the actuator unit on the valve unit, then secure attachment is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple mounting functions are merged into a single clip component made from one monolithic metal wire. The first sections, second U-shaped section, and third connecting sections are all part of the same continuous structure, eliminating the need for multiple separate parts, fasteners, or complex assembly operations, thereby reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting clip is designed to be self-installing and self-securing. The bent and straight/angled subsections of the third sections provide elastic deformation and preload forces that automatically secure the actuator unit to the valve unit without requiring additional tools, fasteners, or complex installation procedures, reducing both manufacturing and assembly costs.
3Device complexity
If existing mounting clips are used, then simple structure is achieved, but they are not suitable for replacing the fork-shaped splint
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting clip is designed with multi-functional sections that can engage different features of the actuator unit and valve unit simultaneously. The first sections engage grooves on the actuator unit, the second U-shaped section engages the recess on the valve unit flange, and the third connecting sections provide structural connection and preload. This multi-functionality makes the simple clip structure suitable for replacing the fork-shaped splint while maintaining all necessary mounting capabilities.
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 novel mounting clip provides a simple, secure, and cost-effective method for attaching actuator units to valve units, with easy toolless mounting and dismounting, and a preload mechanism for secure coupling.
Implementation Method 1
Each of said third sections has a first subsections being bent, a second subsection being bent and a third subsection being straight or angled
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting clip includes a valve unit housing and a flange. The actuator unit has an actuator unit housing and a shoulder. The mounting clip has first sections positioned in first level, that are straight and run parallel to each other within the first level and are configured to be inserted into grooves provided at the shoulder. A second section is positioned in a second level, is U-shaped, and is configured to be inserted into a recess provided at the flange. Third sections extend between each of the first sections and the second section, each of the third sections has first subsections being bent, a second subsection being bent, and a third subsection being straight or angled. The first subsections extend between the first sections and the third subsections. The second subsections extend between the second section and the third sub-sections.