Holding Frame With Elastic Fixing Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holding frames for connector modules lack clear, defined positions for assembly and disassembly, leading to cumbersome handling and a risk of unintentional disassembly, especially without additional securing components.
Innovation Solution
A holding frame with articulated halves and an elastic fixing element that allows for precise positioning and secure retention of connector modules, utilizing a spring leaf or clip spring to maintain the plugged-in or holding state through a form-fitting and force-fitting connection, overcoming the need for separate securing components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the holding frame halves are articulated to allow easy insertion and removal of connector modules, then the ease of operation is improved, but the mechanical stability deteriorates due to the risk of unintentional disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The holding frame utilizes a dynamic articulated connection between two frame halves that can pivot relative to each other. The elastic fixing element provides a restoring force that automatically returns the frame to its closed stable position after module insertion, enabling easy operation while maintaining mechanical stability through controlled movement rather than rigid fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic fixing element changes the mechanical parameters of the holding frame by introducing a restoring force that dynamically adjusts the frame's stability. This force allows the frame to transition between open and closed states during operation while automatically returning to a stable closed position, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and mechanical stability.
2Reliability
If separate securing components are used to prevent unintentional loosening of modules, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic fixing element integrates the securing function directly into the holding frame structure itself, merging the stabilization mechanism with the frame halves. This eliminates the need for separate securing components while maintaining reliability, as the elastic element's restoring force automatically prevents unintentional loosening of connector modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic fixing element provides self-service by automatically exerting a restoring force that secures the holding frame halves in the closed position after module insertion. This self-securing mechanism eliminates the need for additional separate securing components, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability through the elastic element's inherent restoring force.
3Manufacturing precision
If the holding frame is designed with rigid fixed positions, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome handling
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated connection with elastic fixing creates a dynamic system that maintains defined positions (manufacturing precision) while allowing controlled movement during operation. The elastic restoring force guides the frame halves through precise motion paths, enabling easy handling during assembly and disassembly while maintaining accurate positioning throughout the process.
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 a stable and secure assembly and disassembly process, preventing unintentional opening of the frame after module insertion, while ensuring a defined electrical contact and reducing the complexity of handling and manufacturing by integrating the securing mechanism within the frame itself.
Implementation Method 1
The holding frame has an elastic fixing element, which is designed to releasably fix the holding frame halves in the plugged-in state and the holding state, wherein at least to release the fixing and/or to switch between the plugged-in state and the holding state, a restoring force of the elastic fixing element is to be overcome.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a holding frame (100) for holding plug connector modules, in particular for installation into plug connector housings or for screwing onto wall surfaces. To permit improved handling and more secure fitting and mounting of the holding frame (100), which comprises holding frame halves (4, 5), it is proposed that the holding frame (100) has an elastic fixing element (32) which is designed for detachable fixing of the holding frame halves (4, 5) in a plugged-in state and in a holding state, wherein, at least for the release of the fixing and/or for a changeover between plugged-in state and holding state, a restoring force of the elastic fixing element (32) must be overcome.