Adapter Module With Ejection Levers For Electronic Assemblies

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing electronic assemblies with multiple modules arranged next to each other are cumbersome to operate and assemble, particularly when it comes to connecting and disconnecting the adapter module, which can be difficult due to limited space and the risk of damaging contacts.

Innovation Solution

An adapter module with pivotally mounted ejection levers and a snap-in connection mechanism that allows easy removal and secure attachment to the basic housing, featuring plug contacts and a power supply connection, along with display elements for voltage status indication, facilitates the operation and assembly by simplifying the connection and disconnection process while ensuring mechanical stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the adapter module is directly connected to multiple electronic modules, then electrical connection is achieved, but the risk of contact damage increases and operation becomes cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontact protectionVSAvoidconnection operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter module serves as an intermediary component between the cable connection and multiple electronic modules. It provides a centralized interface where a single cable connects to the adapter, which then distributes connections to multiple modules through individual ejection levers, reducing direct manipulation of delicate contacts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The ejection levers are designed to automatically disengage the adapter module from electronic modules when actuated. This self-service mechanism allows users to easily remove or install modules by simply pivoting the lever, without requiring complex manual manipulation of connectors or contacts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Stability of the object's composition

If the adapter module is designed to securely attach to basic housings, then mechanical stability is improved, but assembly and removal becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical stabilityVSAvoidassembly process
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The connection mechanism transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic controllable connection. The ejection levers allow the adapter module to be securely attached during operation but easily detached when needed, providing both stability and assembly ease through state change.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter module is divided into multiple independent connection points, each controlled by its own ejection lever. This segmentation allows individual modules to be attached or removed without affecting the entire assembly, simplifying the assembly process while maintaining overall mechanical stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple electronic modules are arranged next to each other, then functionality is expanded, but the complexity of connection and control increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional expansionVSAvoidconnection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adapter module provides a universal interface that can connect to multiple different electronic modules simultaneously. The standardized design with multiple ejection levers allows the same adapter to work with various module types, expanding functionality without increasing connection complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple individual connections to separate electronic modules are merged into a single adapter module interface. Instead of connecting each module independently, the adapter consolidates all connections into one unit, reducing the overall complexity of the connection system while maintaining the ability to control multiple modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 adapter module simplifies the operation and assembly of electronic assemblies by allowing easy removal and secure attachment, reducing the risk of contact damage and improving usability, especially in confined spaces, while ensuring electrical and mechanical stability.

Implementation Method 1

The ejection lever (12) interacts with a first side (3a) of a basic housing (3) of an electronic module (2) or with a first side (3a) of two adjacent basic housings (3) in such a way that the adapter module (7) is raised from the basic housings (3) by pivoting the ejection lever (12) from a first position into a second position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLever: Lever

Implementation Method 2

An adapter module with pivotally mounted ejection levers and a snap-in connection mechanism that allows easy removal and secure attachment to the basic housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Fastener: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentEP3210261B1Electronic module
Publication Date: 2018.11.28 PHOENIX CONTACT GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3210261B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3210261B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3210261B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3b

AI summary

The invention relates to an electronic assembly having a plurality of electronic modules (2) arranged adjacent to each other, wherein the individual electronic modules (2) each comprise a base housing (3), at least two conductor connection elements (4), an electronic component, in particular a relay (5), that can be attached to the base housing (3) from a first side (3a), and a retaining and ejecting bow (6) for the electronic component, which retaining and ejecting bow is pivotably arranged on the base housing (3). The electronic assembly is especially easy to operate and to assemble in that an adapter module (7) is provided, which has an adapter housing (8), a number of plug contacts (9) corresponding to the number of electronic modules (2), and at least one interface (10) for connecting a cable, in that the individual electronic modules (2) have counter contacts (11), which correspond to the plug contacts (9) and are accessible from the first side (3a), and in that the adapter module (7) has at least one pivotably supported ejecting lever (12), which can be pivoted from a first position to a second position.