Connecting Element With Autonomous Dirt Protector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting elements for weapon batteries and systems require manual operation for locking, unlocking, and protection against contamination, lacking autonomous functionality and efficient dirt protection.
Innovation Solution
A connecting element comprising a connecting bracket, dirt protector, and opening element, where the dirt protector automatically opens and closes based on the insertion direction of the opening element, ensuring the connection console is protected from contamination and automatically locked when in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual operation is used for locking, unlocking, and protection, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation and reliability are worsened due to lack of autonomous functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (locking, unlocking, dirt protection, and connection establishment) into a single integrated connecting element. The connecting bracket simultaneously performs locking and protection functions, eliminating the need for separate manual operations and reducing overall system complexity while increasing automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element is designed to autonomously establish connections and activate protection mechanisms without external control. When the connecting bracket engages with the counter-element, it automatically locks and triggers the dirt protector to close, enabling self-service operation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the dirt protector remains open for easy access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the connection console is exposed to contamination from dirty environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The dirt protector is designed to close automatically as soon as the connecting bracket engages with the counter-element, preventing contamination before it can occur. This preliminary protective action ensures the connection console is sealed off during the connection process without requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting bracket and dirt protector are operatively connected, creating a feedback mechanism where the position of the connecting bracket automatically controls the state of the dirt protector. When the bracket engages, it triggers the dirt protector to close, providing automatic feedback-based protection.
3Productivity
If manual attachment of protective components is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity and reliability are worsened due to additional manual steps and potential contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the protective cover function into the main connecting bracket structure. The dirt protector is integrated with the connecting bracket, allowing both connection and protection to occur simultaneously in a single automated operation, eliminating separate manual steps and improving productivity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting element (1) comprising at least one connecting console (2) with at least one contact element, at least one dirt protector (3), and at least one opening element (4), wherein the connecting element (1) can be inserted into a mating element in an insertion direction (100), wherein the dirt protector (3) selectively has an open state in which the connecting console (2) is released and a closed state in which the connecting console (2) is covered, wherein the dirt protector (3) is operatively connected to the opening element (4) such that moving the opening element (4) against the insertion direction (100) causes the dirt protector (3) to move into the open state and moving the opening element (4) in the insertion direction (100) causes the dirt protector (3) to move into the closed state, and wherein the connecting console (2) is operatively connected to the opening element (4).such that moving the opening element (4) against the insertion direction (100) causes the connecting console (2) to move in the insertion direction (100) into an extended position, and moving the opening element (4) in the insertion direction (100) causes the connecting console (2) to move in the opposite direction (100) into a retracted position.