Ejector Lever for Surge Protection Module Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional surge protection module mounting apparatuses securely engage with bases but often make it difficult to remove the modules, necessitating a solution for easy ejection and reconfiguration.

Innovation Solution

An ejector system with a pivotable lever and ejection feature is secured to the base, allowing manual or automatic ejection of surge protection modules by providing a mechanical advantage for easy removal and secure engagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the mounting apparatus securely engages the surge protection module with the base, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the ease of operation for removal deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidmodule removal ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The ejector lever is designed to pivot between a first position (for secure engagement) and a second position (for ejection). This dynamic mechanism allows the system to switch between secure mounting and easy removal states, resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and removal ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting apparatus includes an automatic ejection feature where the surge protection module itself can trigger the ejection mechanism. When the module is pushed or activated, it automatically pivots the ejector lever to the ejection position, enabling tool-less, self-service removal that improves ease of operation while maintaining secure engagement during normal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Stability of the object's composition

If the mounting apparatus provides secure engagement, then the stability of the module is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional ejection mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule stabilityVSAvoidejection mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ejector mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the ejector lever, the pivot point, the engagement feature, and the ejection feature. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, maintaining stability during engagement while enabling simple ejection through lever movement, thus managing complexity through functional decomposition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The ejector lever serves multiple functions: it provides the ejection force, acts as a mechanical lever for amplification, and can be manually operated or automatically triggered. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, managing device complexity while achieving both stable engagement and easy removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 ejector system simplifies the removal and installation of surge protection modules, providing a mechanical advantage for tool-less ejection and visual indicators for proper installation, enhancing operational efficiency and user convenience.

Implementation Method 1

An ejector system with a pivotable lever and ejection feature is secured to the base, allowing manual or automatic ejection of surge protection modules by providing a mechanical advantage for easy removal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS11284531B2Ejector for electric modules
Publication Date: 2022.03.22 ERICO INTERNATIONAL CORP
  • US11284531B2 patent drawing
  • US11284531B2 patent drawing
  • US11284531B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An ejector can be provided for a surge protection module that is configured to be engaged with a base for operation. The ejector can include a lever that is configured to pivot relative to the base to eject the surge protection module from engagement with the base.