Cover Plate Locking Element for Module Rail
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Solution Overview
Problem
19-inch assembly systems face challenges in securely fastening cover plates to module rails under high loads, leading to potential slippage and loss of electromagnetic shielding, especially in large housing widths and high shock and vibration conditions.
Innovation Solution
A locking element with a bearing block, slide bolt, and sliding mechanism, actuated by a rotary drive, which allows for secure fastening and easy detachment of the cover plate without dismantling components, using threaded holes and positioning pins for precise alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the folded cover plate is simply inserted into a slot in the module rail, then the attachment structure is simple, but the connection becomes insecure under high loads and the cover plate may slip out
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is divided into distinct functional components: a bearing block for mounting on the cover plate, a slide bolt with locking tongue for engagement, and a sliding mechanism for actuation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element transitions from a static insertion structure to a dynamic locking system where the slide bolt can move between locked and unlocked positions. The sliding mechanism enables the locking tongue to engage with or disengage from the module rail, providing secure connection under load while allowing easy removal when needed.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is added to prevent slippage under high loads, then the connection security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function, mounting function, and actuation function are merged into a single integrated locking element that attaches to the cover plate. The bearing block, slide bolt, and sliding mechanism work together as one unit, reducing the need for separate components and simplifying the overall attachment system.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding mechanism is designed to be actuated from the outside of the cover plate through accessible movement, allowing the locking element to secure or release the cover plate without requiring disassembly of other components or removal of electronic assemblies. The system serves itself by providing external access to the locking mechanism.
3Reliability
If the locking mechanism requires dismantling components or removing plug-in modules to actuate, then the locking security is maintained, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation function is extracted and positioned on the outside of the cover plate, allowing the sliding mechanism to be operated from the external surface. This separates the actuation operation from the internal components and electronic assemblies, enabling easy access without disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding mechanism acts as an intermediary between the external operator and the internal locking tongue. By providing an external interface for actuation, it mediates the transmission of force and motion from the outside to the locking elements, enabling secure locking while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
A locking element (10) for locking a cover plate (4) to a module rail (3) comprises a bearing block (11) with a flat mounting surface (16) and threaded holes (17) for mounting on the inside of the cover plate (4), and a sliding bolt (12) which is slidably mounted on the bearing block (11) and has a locking tongue (13). A sliding mechanism moves the sliding bolt (12) from a locking position, in which the locking tongue engages the module rail (3), to a release position, and vice versa. An actuating screw (15) forms a rotary drive which, when the locking element (10) is mounted, can be actuated through a hole (5) in the cover plate (4).