Lockable Actuator with Blocking Coupling Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing securement methods for operating elements in electrical devices either prevent unintentional disassembly but complicate maintenance or require additional assembly steps increasing production costs, or they lack sufficient security against unintentional disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A securable device with a form-fitting coupling element that blocks latching between the operating element and the housing cover when assembled, allowing easy installation or removal without additional tools or effort, using latching hooks that deform elastically to secure the element during assembly and release it during disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If snap-in hooks are used to secure the operating element, then unintentional disassembly is prevented, but dismantling for maintenance or repair becomes difficult or impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The latching element is designed to be movable between a latched position (when housing hood is absent) and a blocked position (when housing hood is present). The coupling element dynamically changes the state of the latching mechanism based on the presence of the housing hood, allowing the system to adapt between secure attachment and easy removal states.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element acts as an intermediary between the operating element and the housing hood. It transmits the blocking action from the housing hood to the latching element, preventing direct engagement between the latching element and the housing hood while still achieving the security function.
2Ease of repair
If additional screw connections are used to secure the operating element, then flexibility for maintenance and repair is improved, but assembly effort and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the security function and the attachment function into a single integrated mechanism. The latching element provides both the security against unintentional disassembly and the ease of intentional removal, eliminating the need for separate screw connections or additional securing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service security where the housing hood itself, when installed, automatically blocks the latching mechanism through the coupling element. No additional security components or complex assembly procedures are required - the normal assembly process inherently provides the security function.
3Ease of operation
If the latching element is always free to move, then easy installation and removal are achieved, but unintentional disassembly cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element applies preliminary blocking action to the latching element when the housing hood is installed. This pre-empts any potential unintentional disassembly by preventing the latching element from moving in the first place, while still allowing easy removal when the housing hood is intentionally taken off.
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 device securely attaches the operating element to the housing cover, preventing accidental disassembly while allowing easy detachment and maintenance without additional assembly steps, reducing production and maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
latching hooks that deform elastically to secure the element during assembly
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
A lockable device for actuating an electronic component located inside an electrical device is disclosed, comprising an externally operable control element that can be releasably locked to a housing cover of the device that partially encloses the interior of the electrical device, and an interior-side coupling element for transmitting a rotary movement of the control element to the electronic component. When the housing cover is installed, the coupling element blocks the releasable locking of the control element to the housing cover. Furthermore, an electrical device with a lockable device for actuating an electronic component is disclosed.