DIN Rail Locking Mechanism With Single-Action Dual Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for attaching electric apparatuses to DIN rails with two opposite raised edges are either impractical, require multiple manipulations, or have complex control mechanisms that increase manufacturing costs and user awkwardness, especially when the apparatus is closed and in use.
Innovation Solution
A device with two attachment means that convert a translation movement into a rotary movement of the second attachment means, allowing a single operation to lock the electric apparatus onto the rail, using a single actuation part and ensuring stability at three distinct points, with the actuation member accessible from outside for easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single control point device with screw actuator is used to lock the apparatus onto two raised edges, then the control is unified, but the device complexity increases and the operation becomes awkward
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the screw actuator from the attachment device, separating the control function from the locking mechanism. The control point is removed from the device itself and replaced by an external actuation member accessible from outside the apparatus, thereby simplifying the device structure while maintaining unified control capability
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the control mechanism inside the apparatus acting outward on the hooks, the patent inverts the approach by having an external actuation member act inward through openings in the apparatus. This reversal simplifies the internal device structure while maintaining control functionality
2Productivity
If two distinct independent plates are used to lock onto two raised edges, then the structure is simple, but multiple manipulations are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the two independent plate mechanisms into a unified system where a single actuation member controls both attachment means simultaneously. The two hooks remain structurally simple but are now coupled through the common actuation member, allowing one manipulation to perform both locking actions
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation member serves multiple functions: it controls both hooks for locking onto the rail, provides external accessibility for operation, and enables simultaneous actuation of both attachment means. This multi-functionality increases productivity while maintaining structural simplicity
3Adaptability or versatility
If the actuation mechanism is accessible only inside the electric apparatus, then the device structure is compact, but the operation is impossible when the apparatus is closed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides preliminary access to the actuation mechanism by creating openings in the apparatus housing before final assembly. This allows the actuation member to be accessible from outside while maintaining a compact internal structure, enabling operation in the closed state without adding complex external mechanisms
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 simple and efficient locking of electric apparatuses onto DIN rails with a single operation, improving usability and stability while reducing manufacturing complexity and user effort, allowing quick connection and locking of multiple modules.
Implementation Method 1
operating means connecting the first attachment means to the second attachment means and capable of converting a translation movement of the first attachment means into a rotary movement of the second attachment means
Data Source
AI summary
A device for locking an electric apparatus to a supporting rail with two opposite raised edges, the device including a first attachment unit configured to be connected with a first raised edge of the supporting rail; a second attachment unit configured to be connected with a second opposite raised edge of the supporting rail, configured to be movable in an unlocked position; and an operating element connected to the first and second attachment units and configured to convert a translation movement of the first attachment unit into a rotary movement of the second attachment unit, the second attachment unit including a rod that is configured to perform the rotary movement when actuated by the translation movement of the operating element.