Electric Installation Device Two-Stage Latching Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical installation devices lack effective mechanisms to prevent unauthorized removal of functional elements during normal operation while allowing easy disassembly for settings and testing.
Innovation Solution
A two-stage latching system is implemented, where a removal protection component is inserted into the carrier frame recess to increase the pull-off force required for removal, preventing unauthorized removal by hand and allowing easy assembly and later tool-assisted removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple latching hook mechanism is used to attach functional elements to the carrier frame, then the ease of assembly and disassembly for settings is improved, but the protection against unauthorized removal during normal operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is segmented into two distinct components: a latching hook for easy attachment/detachment during settings and testing, and a separate removal protection element that prevents unauthorized removal during normal operation. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The removal protection acts as an intermediary element between the latching hook and the carrier frame recess. It mediates the interaction by allowing the latching hook to engage for settings while simultaneously preventing unauthorized removal by blocking direct access to the recess.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented to prevent unauthorized removal, then the protection against unwanted dismantling is improved, but the ease of disassembly for settings and testing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is separated from the latching function. The latching hook provides easy attachment for settings, while the removal protection provides secure locking against unauthorized removal. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex mechanisms that would hinder easy disassembly for legitimate purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The removal protection is designed to be dynamically removable using a simple tool when legitimate service is required. The spring leg can be deflected with minimal force using a tool, allowing authorized personnel to remove the protection when needed while maintaining security during normal operation.
3Reliability
If the removal protection is designed to require tool assistance for removal, then the protection against unauthorized removal is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The removal protection utilizes parameter changes in the spring leg's mechanical properties. The spring leg can be easily deflected under controlled conditions (with tool assistance) but resists deflection under normal hand-applied forces, providing security without complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The removal protection is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily manufactured and installed. Its simplicity and low cost offset the added complexity of the two-stage latching system, making the overall solution economically viable.
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 solution provides secure attachment of functional elements, allowing easy disassembly for settings and testing without unauthorized removal, and easy assembly of the removal protection, while making unauthorized dismantling more difficult.
Implementation Method 1
arranged by means of a latching hook at the end of a spring leg
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The electric installation device has a base unit mounted in a commercial socket, where the base unit is locked with an operational or functional element (2,3) by a carrier frame (8). A withdrawal protection system (13) is mounted at a place of a carrier frame recess (9) at the carrier frame by a connecting medium. The carrier frame recess has a support plate (22). The support plate is provided to obstruct the deflection of a spring leg (5) of the operational or functional element.