I/O Module Locking Actuator for Fast Visible Base Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional I/O devices in automation control systems face challenges in efficiently and effectively coupling and uncoupling modules from bases, particularly in terms of electrical connection and visibility of the coupling status.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves an I/O system with a locking actuator assembly that includes an actuator supported for axial and rotational movement by the I/O module. This actuator moves from an unlocked to a locked position, with a flange passing through a slot in the I/O base, securing the module in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional locking mechanisms (screws, toggle mechanisms, or friction-based systems) are used to secure an I/O module to a base, then the module can be securely attached, but the coupling and uncoupling process becomes time-consuming and operationally complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking actuator is designed to rotate between a first position (unlocked) and a second position (locked), dynamically transitioning between states to enable quick coupling and uncoupling operations without requiring multiple steps or tools
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the actuator, the flange, the slot, and the biasing element, allowing independent optimization of each component for rapid operation while maintaining secure locking
2Reliability
If the I/O module uses a simple friction-based retention mechanism, then the structure remains simple, but the reliability of the connection is insufficient under vibration or thermal expansion conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing element automatically applies a locking force to the actuator, creating a self-servicing mechanism that maintains reliable connection under vibration and thermal expansion without requiring external intervention or complex additional components
Solution Approach 2:
The locking actuator integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides the locking interface, transmits the locking force through the flange and slot, and works with the biasing element to maintain constant pressure, thereby achieving high reliability without proportionally increasing complexity
3Loss of information
If locking toggle mechanisms or screws are used to secure the I/O module, then secure attachment is achieved, but the visibility of the locked/unlocked status becomes unclear
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator's position-dependent visibility provides a clear visual indication of coupling status: when rotated to the locked position, the actuator's orientation or exposed features change, allowing operators to immediately determine the coupling state without additional indicators
4Ease of operation
If the actuator extends from one side of the housing only, then the structure is simpler, but accessibility for locking operations becomes limited in certain orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is supported to enable movement in multiple dimensions (axial and rotational), allowing it to extend from different sides of the housing depending on its position, thereby providing accessibility from multiple orientations without requiring multiple actuators or complex mounting structures
Data Source
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AI summary
An I/O system including an I/O base having a first connector component, an I/O module selectively attachable to the I/O base and having a second connector component adapted to mate with the first connector component, and a locking actuator assembly for securing the I/O module to the I/O base. The locking actuator assembly includes an actuator supported for axial and rotational movement by the I/O module, the actuator movable from an unlocked position having a first end of the actuator extending from a housing of the I/O module to a locked position wherein a second end of the actuator extends from the housing. The second end of the actuator includes a flange adapted to pass through a corresponding slot in a surface of the I/O base such that when the actuator is rotated the at least one flange restricts withdrawal of the actuator from the slot in the I/O base.