Electrical Cabinet Panel Locking for Single-Operator Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical cabinets require two operators to assemble panels, or complex mechanisms to hold panels in place during assembly, complicating the process.
Innovation Solution
A cabinet design featuring a frame with upper and lower fittings and a movable locking element that allows single-operator assembly, using snap-fastening holding means and a rotating element to secure panels in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If two operators are used to assemble the cabinet, then the panel can be held in position and screwed to the frame, but the assembly process requires multiple operators which reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to automatically hold the panel in position during assembly without requiring a second operator. The elastic deformation mechanism self-activates when the panel is inserted, providing automatic positioning and retention functionality that eliminates the need for manual holding by another person.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element transitions between different states (unlocked during insertion, locked during assembly) through elastic deformation. This dynamic behavior allows the same component to provide different functions at different stages of assembly, enabling single-operator operation while maintaining panel stability.
2Productivity
If complex mechanisms are provided to hold panels in position during assembly, then a single operator can assemble the cabinet, but the cabinet structure becomes significantly more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element utilizes elastic deformation as a parameter change to achieve the holding function. By changing the physical state of the locking element from flexible during insertion to rigid during assembly, the system achieves complex functionality with a simple component structure, avoiding the need for elaborate mechanical mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element temporarily deforms during the insertion phase to allow panel placement, then recovers its original shape to provide the holding function during assembly. This temporary deformation and recovery cycle enables the system to achieve complex positioning functionality without permanent structural complexity.
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 single-operator assembly of electrical cabinets with simplified mechanisms, improving efficiency and reducing the need for multiple operators.
Implementation Method 1
a locking element which elastically deforms in a bending movement during installation of the panel
Implementation Method 2
a rotation element...comprising a rolling face configured to roll on a face of the lower part when the panel pivots
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a cabinet comprising a frame (15) and a panel fixed to the frame (15), a first direction (X) being defined, the panel being perpendicular to the first direction (X), the cabinet (10) comprising an upper fitting (30) fixed to the upper part of the frame (15), and a lower fitting fixed to the lower part of the frame (15). The panel rests on the lower fitting, which prevents movement of the panel along the first direction (X) relative to the frame (15), the cabinet comprising at least one locking element (35) carried by the upper fitting (30) and movable relative to the upper fitting (30) between an unlocked position and a locked position, the locking element (35) preventing movement of the panel along the first direction (X) relative to the frame (15) in the locked position, and allowing such movement in the unlocked position.