Adapter for Multi-Pole Circular Connector Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions fail to provide a simple and space-saving method for positioning multi-pole round plugs on carrier profiles used in switch cabinets and control systems, which is essential for efficient power supply and data connections.
Innovation Solution
An adapter with latching profiles for secure attachment to the carrier profile, holding means for detachable fastening of the round plug housing, and open areas for cable routing, designed as a one-piece plastic component with a frame shape and varying functional surfaces for accommodating different plug sizes, allowing tool-free assembly and secure cable management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If multi-pole round plugs are positioned directly on carrier profiles, then positioning is achieved, but space efficiency and cable routing are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
An adapter is introduced as an intermediary component between the carrier profile and the round plug. The adapter features a frame-shaped design with open areas that facilitate cable routing while providing mounting surfaces for the plug. This mediator enables both secure positioning and efficient cable management without requiring the plug to be directly mounted on the carrier profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system is segmented into three distinct components: the carrier profile, the adapter, and the round plug. The adapter acts as an intermediate mounting element with a frame structure that separates the positioning function from the cable routing function, allowing each component to be optimized independently.
2Ease of manufacture
If adapter is designed as one-piece plastic component, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter combines plastic material with integrated metal fastening elements or reinforcement structures. The frame-shaped design incorporates stiffening ribs and reinforcement features that enhance structural strength while maintaining the one-piece plastic construction for manufacturing simplicity. This composite approach allows the adapter to meet both manufacturing and strength requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter exhibits local quality variations with different structural characteristics in different regions. The frame sections include stiffening ribs and reinforcement features at critical locations to enhance strength where needed, while other areas maintain simple plastic construction for ease of manufacture. The holding means and latching profiles are designed with localized reinforcement to ensure proper fastening capability.
3Volume of moving object
If frame-shaped adapter design is used, then cable routing space is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed as a frame structure divided into four legs forming open areas, creating a segmented design that naturally provides cable routing pathways. This segmentation into frame legs and open areas simultaneously achieves cable routing space and maintains relative manufacturing simplicity through modular-like construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame-shaped adapter serves multiple functions: providing structural support, facilitating cable routing through open areas, offering mounting surfaces for round plugs, and enabling tool-free assembly via integrated latching profiles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby managing device complexity while achieving cable routing objectives.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functional surfaces are provided on adapter, then versatility for different plug sizes is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter incorporates multiple functional surfaces and holding means designed to accommodate different sizes of round plugs. The frame structure includes four legs with holding means on multiple surfaces, creating a universal mounting solution that can secure various plug dimensions without requiring different adapter designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter features local variations in the form of holding means positioned on different functional surfaces of the frame legs. These localized features are strategically placed to provide appropriate support and fastening for different plug sizes, while the overall frame structure remains consistent for manufacturing efficiency.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~8
AI summary
Device for positioning at least one multi-pole circular connector on a carrier profile, in particular a hat-shaped one. The invention relates to a device for positioning at least one multi-pole circular connector on a carrier profile, in particular a hat-shaped one, which is intended for holding, in particular, electromechanical functional modules.According to the invention, an adapter (2, 2a) is provided with several external functional surfaces (4, 4a; 5, 5a, 5b), wherein a first functional surface (4, 4a) is provided with locking profiles (7, 8; 7a, 8a) for locking the adapter (2, 2a) to the carrier profile (1), wherein at least one further functional surface (5, 5a, 5b) offset from the first functional surface (4, 4a) is provided with retaining means (11, 11a) for releasably fastening a housing of a circular connector (6, 6'), and wherein the adapter (2, 2a) comprises at least one cavity open towards at least one external functional surface (5, 5a, 5b) for the passage of flexible cables.