DIN Latch Mechanism for Tool-Free Module Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latches for electronics modules in industrial automation systems are not convenient and effective for selectively and releasably mating with DIN rails, lacking efficient mechanisms for easy installation and removal without tools.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly with first and second movable latch portions, a biasing member, and a lock lever that allows for one-handed operation, providing a secure and easy-to-use mechanism for engaging and disengaging with DIN rail flanges, utilizing linear movement and positive tactile feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing latches are used for electronics modules, then the modules can be secured to DIN rails, but the latches are not convenient and effective for selective and releasable mating without tools
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is divided into two separate latch portions (first latch portion and second latch portion) that can move independently. Each latch portion has its own locking tab that engages with separate flanges on the DIN rail, allowing one-handed operation while maintaining secure locking through dual engagement points
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member combines the functions of both latch portions by providing a single compression spring that biases both locking tabs simultaneously toward their engaged positions. This merging of the biasing function into one component simplifies the mechanism while ensuring both latches are engaged together, maintaining reliability through coordinated dual-point securing
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is provided, then the electronics module is reliably secured to the DIN rail, but the mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cam member serves multiple functions: it couples the first and second latch portions for coordinated movement, acts as a pivot point for the lock lever, and provides a mechanical advantage for the actuation portion. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, achieving reliable dual-point locking without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The cam member acts as an intermediary mechanism that translates the linear movement of the actuation portion into coordinated reciprocating movement of both latch portions. This intermediary component simplifies the overall mechanism by providing a single point of actuation that automatically coordinates both locking tabs, reducing complexity compared to having separate actuation mechanisms for each latch
3Ease of operation
If tool-free operation is enabled, then ease of operation is improved, but the securing strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member (compression spring) is pre-loaded to continuously exert force on both locking tabs, maintaining them in the engaged position with sufficient securing strength. This preliminary action ensures that the latches are always under spring pressure, providing strong securement that can be easily released by overcoming the spring force through the actuation portion, achieving both strength and tool-free operation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables convenient and effective securement and release of electronics modules from DIN rails with one-handed operation, eliminating the need for tools and providing a secure locking mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member for biasing said first and second latch portions towards the latched position. The biasing member can include a compression spring extending between the housing and only one of the first or second latch portions
Implementation Method 2
A cam member can be pivotally supported by the housing at a midpoint thereof, respective end portions of the cam member engaged with a respective one of the first and second latch portions thereby coupling same for reciprocating relative movement
Implementation Method 3
The lock lever can include at least one projection including a ramp surface, said ramp surface can be configured to engage the second latch portion during movement thereof to deflect the lock lever
Data Source
AI summary
An electronics module having a latch assembly including first and second reciprocating latch portions adapted to engage respective first and second opposite edges of a mounting rail. Each of the latch portions includes a locking tab, the locking tabs movable away from each other from a latched position to an unlatched position, the first and second latch portions being coupled together for reciprocating motion, at least one of said latch portions including an actuator portion extending from the housing for manual actuation of the latch assembly between the latch and unlatched positions.