Articulated Connector Holding Frame with Blade-Shaped Locking Hook
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holding frames for connector modules are cumbersome to assemble, lack a defined open position, and have unreliable electrical contact, leading to accidental opening and module displacement during use.
Innovation Solution
A holding frame with two halves connected via an articulated joint and a locking element that allows for two stable positions, enabling easy assembly and secure module retention through a locking mechanism with a locking hook and recess system, ensuring reliable electrical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the holding frame is equipped with connector modules, then the holding frame can be inserted into a plug connector housing and screwed to it, but the holding frame must be mechanically stable to withstand plugging and pulling forces
Solution Approach 1:
The holding frame utilizes a dynamic articulated connection between two frame halves that can move relative to each other, allowing the frame to adapt to assembly forces while maintaining mechanical stability. The articulated joint enables the frame to flex during assembly operations rather than being rigidly fixed
Solution Approach 2:
The frame employs a spring mechanism that changes the physical state of the connection between frame halves, providing a restoring force that maintains mechanical stability while allowing controlled movement during assembly. The spring force parameter can be adjusted to balance stability requirements with assembly ease
2Reliability
If the holding frame is successfully equipped with connector modules, then it must be brought into a closed state to fix the modules, but there is no fixed closed state so the holding frame can accidentally open
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated connection with spring restoration provides self-centering functionality that automatically returns the frame halves to their proper closed position, eliminating the need for complex external locking mechanisms. The system serves itself by using the spring force to maintain the correct configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism provides beforehand cushioning by storing elastic energy that prevents accidental opening of the frame. The pre-loaded spring creates a force field that cushions against unintended movements and maintains module retention
3Ease of operation
If the holding frame consists of two halves that are articulated together, then the halves can be brought into an open angular position to equip the holding frame with connector modules, but working against the force of a spring makes the assembly process difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The holding frame is divided into two separate articulated halves that can move independently, allowing one half to be manipulated while the other remains stable. This segmentation reduces the force required to open the frame compared to moving a single rigid structure
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated connection acts as an intermediary mechanism between the operator and the frame halves, providing mechanical advantage that reduces the force needed to overcome spring resistance during assembly operations
4Adaptability or versatility
If the holding frame consists of two halves that are articulated together, then the halves can be brought into an open angular position, but there is not always a defined electrical contact between the halves
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded articulated connection provides self-centering functionality that automatically ensures reliable electrical contact between frame halves. The spring force maintains consistent pressure at the contact interface, eliminating the need for separate alignment mechanisms
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a holding frame (1), into which plug connector modules (19) can be inserted, wherein the holding frame (1) consists of two halves (4, 5) articulated to each other, a first half (4) and a second half (5), wherein the holding frame (1) has at least one locking element (7), wherein the locking element (7) is formed from a flat component, which overlaps the two halves (4, 5) at least in some regions, wherein the locking element (7) has at least one end locking hook (12) and wherein one half of the holding frame (1) has at least one cut-out (9), in which the locking hook (12) of the locking element (7) can engage, whereby the holding frame (1) can be fixed in an open position. The halves are fixed in relation to each other at an open angular position. Such a holding frame can be conveniently fixed in an open position for fitting with suitable plug connector modules.