Connector Holding Frame Linear Latching Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holding frames for connector modules require attachment to a flat mounting surface and allow for tilting, making it difficult to align and securely position the modules in a space-saving manner.
Innovation Solution
A holding frame with two frame halves that can be latched together through linear displacement, featuring latching and form-fitting means to ensure alignment and secure positioning without tilting, accommodating modules of different widths through a grid dimension design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the holding frame is attached to a flat mounting surface with traditional fastening methods, then the connector modules can be held in place, but the modules are prone to tilting and misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The holding frame is divided into two separable frame halves that can be assembled around the connector modules. This segmentation allows the frame to be opened for easy module insertion and then closed to provide stable, tilted-free positioning without requiring complex mounting surface attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The frame halves are designed with integrated guide means and latching mechanisms that preliminarily align and secure the connector modules during the assembly process itself, eliminating the need for separate alignment steps or flat mounting surface dependency
2Volume of moving object
If the frame halves are positioned close together to save space, then the holding frame is more compact, but the connector modules cannot be easily inserted without the frame shifting
Solution Approach 1:
The holding frame transitions from an open state with frame halves separated for easy module insertion to a closed state with frame halves latched together for compact, stable positioning. The dynamic adjustment of frame half distance resolves the contradiction between insertion ease and compactness
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the holding frame into two adjustable halves, the design allows the frame to be opened wide during insertion and then closed tightly for compact storage, with the guide means ensuring alignment throughout the movement
3Ease of operation
If the frame halves are allowed to move freely during assembly, then the installation process is simpler, but the connector modules may tilt or become misaligned
Solution Approach 1:
The guide means act as an intermediary element between the frame halves and connector modules, allowing free movement during assembly while simultaneously ensuring precise alignment. The guide means mediate the interaction to prevent tilting without restricting necessary movement
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical alignment systems with a simpler guide means and latching mechanism system that achieves the same alignment precision through linear guidance and form-fitting interfaces
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5a~5b
AI summary
The frame (1) has two frame halves (2, 3) latched with each other by linear shifting of one frame half relative to the other frame half into a sliding direction. A projection, recesses and latch parts e.g. detent devices, are provided at the frame halves corresponding to each other. The two frame halves are locked with each other in different detent positions during linear shifting. The frame halves are spaced at different spacing (92) to each other. A guide part and a guide counter part are arranged at one of the frame halves. The recesses are retainers, holes or blind holes. An independent claim is also included for a plug connector module.