DIN Rail Case Attachment with Simultaneous Retraction Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional devices for attaching cases to DIN rails require cumbersome operations involving rotation and ample maneuvering space for coupling and uncoupling, making them inefficient and time-consuming, especially when dealing with multiple cases.

Innovation Solution

A device with simultaneous retraction means for coupling portions, allowing for perpendicular movement and snap-action coupling/uncoupling without rotation, utilizing a single-piece plastic or metallic body with elastic return mechanisms and a grip element for easy operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional fixing devices with separate fixed and retractable coupling portions are used, then the case can be securely attached to the DIN rail, but the coupling and uncoupling operations become cumbersome requiring rotation and ample maneuvering space

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidcoupling operation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the fixed coupling portion and the retractable coupling portion into a single integrated body. The body includes a first coupling portion that remains stationary and a second coupling portion that can retract, both working together to secure the case to the DIN rail. This merging eliminates the need for separate coupling mechanisms and simplifies the overall operation while maintaining secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a retractable second coupling portion that can dynamically change its position between extended and retracted states. This dynamic element allows the device to adapt during coupling and uncoupling operations, enabling simple perpendicular movement without rotation while maintaining secure attachment when engaged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If conventional fixing devices requiring rotation are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but the maneuvering space required increases and operation time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidmaneuvering space
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The retractable second coupling portion enables the device to transition between coupled and uncoupled states through simple perpendicular movement along the DIN rail, eliminating the need for rotational maneuvering and reducing the space required for operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If conventional fixing devices with separate coupling portions are used, then the case can be attached to the DIN rail, but the time required for coupling and uncoupling operations increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment functionVSAvoidcoupling speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating both coupling portions into a single body with coordinated movement, the patent enables simultaneous engagement and disengagement of both coupling points, significantly reducing the time required for coupling and uncoupling operations while maintaining secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The retractable second coupling portion works in coordination with the first coupling portion to enable rapid simultaneous engagement and disengagement, improving coupling speed and productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Reliability

If conventional fixing devices are used, then the case can be attached to the DIN rail, but simultaneous coupling of both coupling portions is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment functionVSAvoidcoupling mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the two coupling portions into a single integrated body where their movements are coordinated through the body's structure. This allows both coupling portions to be engaged and disengaged simultaneously in a single perpendicular motion, simplifying the coupling mechanism while maintaining reliable attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 quick and efficient coupling/uncoupling of cases to DIN rails at right angles, reducing operational complexity and space requirements, while maintaining reliability and low costs.

Implementation Method 1

the other coupling portion can move/is retractable and is fitted with elastic return means to keep it in the coupled configuration, if inactive

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic return: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4369539A1Device for attaching a case to a din rail and case with such a device
Publication Date: 2024.05.15 ITALTRONIC
  • EP4369539A1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1b
  • EP4369539A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4369539A1 patent drawingFigure 3a

AI summary

A device (10, 110) for attaching a case (11, 111) to a DIN rail (12, 112), the device (10, 110) comprising a body (13, 113) having at least two coupling portions (14a, 14b, 114a, 114b) to the DIN rail (12, 112). The device (10, 110) comprises means (15, 115) for the simultaneous retraction of the coupling portions (14a, 14b, 114a, 114b).