Connection Module Light Guide Indicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection modules for automation devices have complex constructions due to the need for separate operating indicators with light sources, which complicates the structure and increases installation and service costs.
Innovation Solution
The use of a light guide with a display element and a labeling field element that can be illuminated from a distance, allowing for simplified structure and easy assignment of functional elements through color coding, and enabling secure mounting and easy replacement of labels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate operating indicators with light sources are arranged in the vicinity of each connection, then the assignment of operating indicators to connections is intuitive and simple, but the construction of the connection module becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate operating indicators into a single integrated operating indicator that serves multiple connections. This single indicator contains multiple light sources, each associated with different connections through optical guides, thereby reducing construction complexity while maintaining intuitive signal indication for multiple connections
2Reliability
If separate operating indicators with light sources are used for each connection, then the functionality of each connection can be displayed, but the structure becomes complicated and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal operating indicator that can display signals for multiple different connections simultaneously. This single multi-functional indicator replaces multiple separate indicators, maintaining comprehensive signal display capability while simplifying the overall structure and reducing component count
3Ease of operation
If light sources are arranged close to each connection, then the assignment is clear, but additional lighting means are required and structure is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical guides as intermediary elements that transmit light from centralized light sources to the operating indicator. This allows light signals to be conveyed over distances without requiring light sources to be physically adjacent to each connection, thereby reducing the total number of light sources needed while maintaining clear signal assignment
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
This solution simplifies the connection module structure, reduces costs, and enhances operational safety by allowing light signals to be passed on from a distant light source, providing intuitive functionality and clear information without additional lighting means.
Implementation Method 1
a base body (200) made of a light guide material with a light coupling-in surface (206a, 206b) and a light coupling-out surface (208) opposite the light coupling-in surface (206a, 206b) for conducting light signals from a light source (218)
Implementation Method 2
the labeling field light input surface (220) is in light-conducting contact with the light output surface (208)
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a connection module, comprising a plurality of connections for functional elements and comprising a plurality of operating indicators (104). At least one of the operating indicators (104) has a display element (106), and the display element (106) has a base (200), which is disposed as a light guide and which has a light in-coupling surface (206a, 206b) and a light out-coupling surface (208).