Convertible Human Interface Module Mounting for Cradle and Panel

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing human interface modules (HIMs) require separate models for cradle and panel mounting, leading to inconvenience and increased costs due to different mounting arrangements in industrial environments.

Innovation Solution

A convertible human interface module that can be mounted to either a cradle or a panel using interchangeable accessories, including a cylindrical protrusion and clip system for panel mounting, and a cradle mounting device for cradle mounting, allowing a single model to accommodate both configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate HIM models are used for cradle mounting and panel mounting, then each model can be optimized for its specific mounting arrangement, but the variety of models increases device complexity and manufacturing costs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting configuration adaptabilityVSAvoidnumber of HIM models
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal mounting interface on the HIM that can accommodate both cradle mounting and panel mounting configurations. The mounting interface includes a mounting plate with multiple mounting patterns that can be selectively used depending on the installation scenario, allowing a single HIM model to serve multiple mounting purposes without requiring separate specialized models for each configuration.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate HIM models are used for different mounting arrangements, then each model can be optimized for its specific use, but user convenience deteriorates due to difficulty in selection

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting arrangement specializationVSAvoidmodel selection process
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent provides a single HIM model with integrated mounting capabilities for both cradle and panel installations through its universal mounting interface, eliminating the need for users to determine in advance which mounting type they need and simplifying the selection process to a single model that adapts to various installation scenarios.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If separate HIM models are manufactured for cradle and panel mounting, then each model can be optimized for its mounting type, but manufacturing costs increase due to duplicated production

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting type optimizationVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs a universal mounting interface with a mounting plate that can be used across all HIM models, allowing manufacturers to produce a single standardized mounting component that serves both cradle and panel mounting applications, thereby eliminating duplicated production lines and reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining optimized mounting capabilities for each configuration.

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

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple HIM models are produced for different mounting configurations, then each model can be tailored to its specific mounting requirements, but inventory complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting configuration tailoringVSAvoidnumber of HIM variants in inventory
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent consolidates multiple mounting configuration capabilities into a single HIM model through its universal mounting interface, allowing manufacturers to maintain only one model in inventory that can be configured for different mounting types, thereby eliminating the need to stock multiple specialized models while still providing tailored mounting solutions for various installation scenarios.

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

Data Source

PatentUS12363835B2Human interface module mounting device
Publication Date: 2025.07.15 ROCKWELL AUTOMATION TECH INC
  • US12363835B2 patent drawing
  • US12363835B2 patent drawing
  • US12363835B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present technology provide systems and methods for mounting a human interface module (HIM). According to various embodiments, the HIM may be configured to mount alternatively to a panel and a cradle. A panel mounting device is used to mount the HIM to a panel. The panel mounting device can be removably coupled to the HIM for panel mounting. The HIM may be installed in a cradle without the panel mounting device in accordance with some embodiments.