Connector Module Holding Frame Articulated Joint Fixing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing holding frames for connector modules lack a clear open position for easy assembly, are prone to accidental opening, and do not provide a defined electrical contact, making them difficult to handle and unsuitable for grounding purposes.

Innovation Solution

A holding frame with two halves connected via an articulated joint, allowing alignment in at least two angular positions, featuring a fixing mechanism with press lugs and troughs for secure open and closed positions, and ensuring electrical conductivity for grounding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the holding frame uses a purely articulated connection between two halves, then the assembly process becomes cumbersome and lacks a clearly defined open position, but the frame can be opened to equip connector modules

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly easeVSAvoidframe structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holding frame employs a dynamically adjustable articulated connection between two frame halves, allowing the angle between them to vary during assembly. This dynamic structure enables the frame to transition between open and closed positions, facilitating easy module installation while maintaining structural integrity through controlled movement rather than fixed rigid connections

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The holding frame is divided into two separate halves that can be independently positioned and assembled. This segmentation allows each half to be equipped with connector modules separately before final assembly, simplifying the overall assembly process and enabling modular construction without requiring the entire frame to be disassembled

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the holding frame lacks a fixed closed state, then the frame can accidentally open causing modules to fall, but the frame cannot maintain a clearly defined closed position for secure module fixation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule fixation reliabilityVSAvoidframe positioning precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The articulated connection incorporates mechanical feedback through the interaction between the frame halves and connector modules. As the frame closes, the modules provide tactile and mechanical feedback that guides the frame into the correct closed position, ensuring proper alignment and secure fixation while preventing accidental opening through engaged locking positions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If the holding frame uses a spring mechanism to pull halves into closed position, then the frame automatically closes after assembly, but the assembly process becomes difficult requiring work against spring force

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframe closure reliabilityVSAvoidassembly difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The holding frame design allows connector modules to be installed on the frame halves while they are in an open or partially open position, performing the assembly action preliminarily before final closure. This eliminates the need to work against spring force during module installation, as the modules are secured to the frame structure before the spring-driven closure mechanism engages to lock everything in place

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Adaptability or versatility

If the holding frame halves are connected purely articulated, then there is no defined electrical contact between halves, but the frame cannot be used for grounding purposes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrounding capabilityVSAvoidelectrical contact material
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The articulated connection between frame halves is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: mechanical connection for structural integrity, angular adjustment for assembly flexibility, and electrical conduction for grounding purposes. By making the connection elements electrically conductive, the same structural component fulfills both mechanical and electrical roles, eliminating the need for separate grounding materials

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

Data Source

PatentEP3345258B1Support frame for connector module
Publication Date: 2019.12.25 HARTING ELECTRIC GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3345258B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3345258B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP3345258B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

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) connectable to one another, wherein the halves (4, 5) can be aligned in at least two positions relative to one another, wherein the holding frame (1) has at least one fixing means and wherein the halves (4, 5) can be fixed in at least two positions relative to one another via the at least one fixing means. At least one press projection (7), preferably, however, two press projections (7, 7') is/are molded on the first half (4). The second half (5) has two recesses (9, 10) on one end face (11) or two recesses (9, 9', 10, 10') on two end faces (11, 12) respectively, and the press projection (7) can be pressed into the two recesses (9, 10) or the press projections (7, 7') can be pressed into the two recesses (9, 9', 10, 10') respectively, as a result of which the halves (4, 5) can be fixed relative to one another in at least two positions, an open position and a closed position.