I/O Module Locking Actuator With Visual Lock Status
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional I/O devices in automation control systems face inefficiencies in coupling, locking, and uncoupling processes, which can lead to insecure connections and increased complexity due to reliance on friction, screws, or simple locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a locking actuator assembly with a spring-loaded actuator supported for axial and rotational movement, featuring a flange that restricts withdrawal when rotated, providing a secure and efficient method for attaching and detaching I/O modules from bases, utilizing a cap and cylindrical portion to guide the actuator's movement and a biasing element to maintain the unlocked position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional friction or simple locking mechanisms are used to secure I/O modules to bases, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of the connection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism employs a dynamic actuator that can rotate between locked and unlocked positions, transforming a static friction-based connection into an active, controllable locking system. The actuator's rotational movement enables reliable engagement and disengagement while maintaining connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fasteners (screws, clips) with a cam-based locking system that uses rotational movement to create secure engagement. The cam mechanism converts rotational motion into linear locking force, providing reliable connection security with simpler operational complexity.
2Reliability
If screws or fasteners are used to secure I/O modules to bases, then the reliability of connection is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking actuator introduces dynamic operation to the previously static screw-based system. A single rotational motion of the actuator accomplishes what previously required multiple screw operations, dramatically improving ease of operation while maintaining connection security through the cam locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the complex multi-step screw fastening process and replaces it with a single actuator rotation that performs locking, unlocking, and status indication functions, simplifying the operational sequence while preserving reliable connection.
3Reliability
If locking toggle mechanisms are employed to secure I/O modules, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking actuator, status indication, and visual feedback into a single integrated component. The actuator itself serves as the status indicator through its rotational position, eliminating the need for separate indicators and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking actuator performs multiple functions simultaneously: it secures the I/O module through cam engagement, provides visual status indication through its rotational position, and enables easy operation through single-motion locking/unlocking. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components.
4Ease of operation
If traditional I/O modules are designed without integrated locking indicators, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of detecting locking status deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking actuator serves itself as the status indicator. Its rotational position automatically provides visual feedback about the locking state without requiring separate sensors, indicators, or complex detection mechanisms. The actuator's own position communicates the locking status to the operator.
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
This solution enhances the security and efficiency of coupling and uncoupling I/O modules by ensuring a reliable, compact, and accessible locking mechanism that reduces tolerance stack-up and provides visual status indication, improving the overall reliability of the I/O system connections.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing element can be interposed between the at least one guide flange and the cylindrical portion of the support, the biasing element urging the actuator axially towards to unlocked position
Implementation Method 2
a second end of the actuator includes at least one flange adapted to pass through a corresponding slot/opening 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/opening in the I/O base
Data Source
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.