Interlocking Key Mechanism for Automation Controller Module Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional industrial automation and control systems face inefficiencies and disconnection issues due to the use of cumbersome and expensive mechanical parts for interlocking modules, which can be disengaged by vibrations or shocks, necessitating a more secure and efficient connection method.
Innovation Solution
An interlocking system featuring a key with a shaft and attachment features that aligns with keyholes in programmable modules and automation controllers, resisting disengagement through axial rotation, ensuring a rigid and secure connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional mechanical interlocking systems are used to connect modules, then the connection can be established, but the mechanical parts become cumbersome, delicate, and expensive while creating assembly inefficiencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential interlocking function from complex traditional mechanical systems. The key-hole mechanism isolates only the necessary components (key with attachment features, keyhole with alignment features) while eliminating unnecessary mechanical complexity, achieving simpler assembly without sacrificing connection functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the interlocking mechanism from complex multi-component mechanical systems to a simplified key-hole geometry system. By modifying the parameters of the key (shaft diameter, attachment feature geometry) and keyhole (alignment feature geometry, tolerance ranges), the system achieves secure connection with fewer parts and simpler assembly
2Reliability
If traditional mechanical interlocking systems are used, then modules can be connected, but the connection may disengage in response to vibration, shock, or similar forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by designing the key-hole interlocking system to preemptively resist disengagement forces. The attachment features on the key and corresponding alignment features in the keyhole create geometric constraints that prevent vibration and shock from causing disconnection, rather than reacting to these forces after disengagement begins
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes curved surfaces and geometric shapes in the key and keyhole design. The rounded attachment features and corresponding recesses create smooth engagement surfaces that distribute stress and prevent sharp edges from acting as stress concentration points under vibration and shock loads
3Strength
If complex mechanical interlocking systems are used, then modules can be secured, but assembly becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the interlocking function into distinct, simple components: the key with its shaft and attachment features, and the keyhole with its alignment features. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard processes while achieving strong connection through their precise geometric配合 during assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An interlocking system for connecting a programmable module and an automation controller of an industrial control and automation system is provided. The interlocking system includes a key comprising a shaft with a head and a first attachment feature. The interlocking system also includes a first keyhole in a programmable module cover. The first keyhole is configured to enable the head to pass upwardly there through. The interlocking system also includes a second keyhole in an automation controller cover. The second keyhole is configured to enable the first attachment feature to slide downwardly there through such that disengagement of the key from the second keyhole is resisted. The interlocking system also includes a second attachment feature on a lower surface of the automation controller cover. The second attachment feature is configured to engage with the first attachment feature when the first attachment feature is rotated about an axis of the shaft.