Coupler with upper and lower couplings, functional module, cart body and dining cart
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dining carts require users to squat down to manually connect power cords between functional modules and the cart body, leading to complex installation and potential misalignment of plugs and sockets.
Innovation Solution
A coupler with upper and lower couplings is introduced, featuring pins and jacks that align and lock securely, allowing for easy attachment of functional modules to the cart body without the need for manual cord connection, using a first and second limiting structure to stabilize the module in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual cord connection is used to connect functional modules to the cart body, then electrical connection can be achieved, but the installation process becomes complex and requires users to squat down to manually connect power cords
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical connection function with the mechanical positioning function into a single integrated coupler assembly. The upper coupling on the functional module directly engages with the lower coupling on the cart body, simultaneously establishing both mechanical support and electrical connection through integrated contact structures, eliminating the need for separate manual cord connection steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler design enables self-aligning and self-connecting functionality. The upper and lower couplings are configured with complementary geometries that automatically align pins with jacks and establish electrical contacts when brought together, allowing the system to perform the connection operation without requiring manual manipulation of power cords or complex alignment procedures.
2Manufacturing precision
If separate plug and socket connection is used, then electrical connection is established, but the functional module cannot be positioned accurately and misalignment may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler employs asymmetric geometric features including pins with specific shapes and corresponding jacks with matching asymmetric configurations. The first and second limiting structures are designed with non-symmetric geometries that permit connection only in the correct orientation, ensuring accurate positioning and preventing misalignment while maintaining reliable electrical and mechanical connections.
3Adaptability or versatility
If detachable functional modules are used to satisfy user needs, then adaptability is improved, but the installation and reconfiguration process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler design implements universal connection interfaces that can accommodate different functional modules through standardized upper and lower coupling configurations. The same coupler structure serves multiple functions including mechanical attachment, electrical connection, and positioning, allowing various functional modules to be interchangeably mounted on the cart body using the identical coupling mechanism, thereby simplifying reconfiguration while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application discloses a coupler with upper and lower couplings, a functional module, a cart body and a dining cart. The coupler includes an upper coupling arranged on a functional module and a lower coupling arranged on a cart body. The upper coupling is provided with pins and a first limiting structure arranged around the periphery of the pins, the lower coupling is provided with jacks and a second limiting structure adapted to the first limiting structure, and during coupling, the pins are inserted into the jacks, and the first limiting structure is clamped in the second limiting structure to form locking to restrict the upper coupling from moving.