Compact DIN Rail Current Module with Rear Snap-On Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing current measurement modules for low-voltage distributors face challenges in easy installation, operational reliability, and resistance to short-circuit currents, often requiring additional space and complex attachment mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A current measuring module with a feedthrough opening design that isolates the current conductor, allowing for easy installation on DIN rail devices, and a connecting element for secure attachment, including a snap-on or clamp connection, ensuring galvanic isolation and reduced space requirements, along with an interface for independent power supply and data communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the module housing is made compact to fit within DIN rail device dimensions, then space utilization is improved, but installation ease deteriorates due to limited access for connector attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the connector attachment region beyond the front surface of the module housing into the rear region. This spatial extension allows the attachment area to be located in a dimensionally different zone (rear side) that provides adequate access for installation operations while keeping the main housing body compact for efficient space utilization within the DIN rail device.
2Length of stationary object
If the module width is reduced to fit within pole dimensions, then space requirements are improved, but attachment mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with multi-functionality to serve both electrical connection and mechanical attachment purposes. The connector includes power connections for energy supply and at least one attachment element for mechanical fastening, allowing a single component to fulfill multiple functions and thereby reducing overall device complexity despite compact dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the electrical connection function and mechanical attachment function into a single integrated connector assembly. The attachment element is integrated with the power connections, merging two separate functions (electrical connection and mechanical fastening) into one unified component that reduces overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the conductor opening is enlarged to facilitate conductor insertion, then installation ease is improved, but protection against short-circuit currents deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The opening for conductor insertion is arranged within the protective enclosure of the module housing in a nested configuration. The housing provides an outer protective layer that shields internal components from direct exposure to short-circuit currents, while the opening allows conductor access. This nested arrangement maintains protection while facilitating installation.
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
The module can be quickly and reliably installed in low-voltage distributors, is insensitive to short-circuit currents, and provides accurate current measurement and temperature monitoring, with easy retrofitting and minimal space usage, ensuring high operational reliability and efficient data transfer.
Implementation Method 1
a current sensor for detecting the current
Implementation Method 2
a current sensor for detecting the current
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The module (M) is used to measure a current flowing in a conductor (20) of a low-voltage distribution board. It comprises a current sensor (43) for detecting the current, a microprocessor circuit (42) for processing the output signal from the current sensor, and a module housing (30) that accommodates the current sensor (43) and the microprocessor circuit (42), in which an opening (31) for the passage of the conductor (20) is provided. To facilitate easy installation of the module (M) in the low-voltage distribution board, the module housing (30) is box-shaped, has a width perpendicular to the direction of the conductor (20) of at most one pole (P) of a DIN rail mounting device that can be installed in the low-voltage distribution board and connected to the conductor (20), and has a connection element (32, 32') on the module housing (30) for detachably fastening the module in the low-voltage distribution board.