Locking Pin Assembly for PCB Fastening in Compact Electronics Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing circuit boards within electronics modules require numerous fastening components and a large surface area, limiting their functional use for electrical or data-carrying processes.
Innovation Solution
A locking pin system with friction-locking capabilities, featuring a first and second pin section with cutting or friction collars, is used to securely fasten the circuit board within the module, allowing for a direct friction-locking connection without additional fastening means, enabling the module to be assembled in a single step and reducing the need for extensive surface area usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior fastening techniques (screws with nuts, snap-fit elements) are used to secure the circuit board, then the circuit board can be fastened to the housing, but a large surface area on the circuit board is consumed for fastening purposes and many fastening components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin transitions the fastening mechanism from a two-dimensional surface mounting approach to a three-dimensional through-hole insertion approach. The pin extends through the circuit board and engages with receiving elements in the housing, utilizing the depth dimension to create secure fastening without consuming valuable surface area on the circuit board for mounting holes or fastener bases.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pin combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: it serves as both the fastening element and the positioning element. The pin's design integrates the fastening function with the circuit board mounting function, eliminating the need for separate fastening components and reducing the number of parts required.
2Reliability
If prior fastening techniques (screws with nuts, snap-fit elements) are used to secure the circuit board, then the circuit board can be fastened to the housing, but numerous fastening components are required resulting in high manufacturing outlay
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: it serves as both the fastening element and the positioning element. The pin's design integrates the fastening function with the circuit board mounting function, eliminating the need for separate fastening components and reducing the number of parts required.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking pin is designed as a multi-functional element that performs both fastening and positioning tasks. The same pin structure that provides mechanical fastening also serves to position and align the circuit board within the housing, reducing the need for additional dedicated positioning components.
3Reliability
If prior fastening techniques (screws with nuts, snap-fit elements) are used, then the circuit board can be fastened, but the process requires multiple steps and higher manufacturing outlay
Solution Approach 1:
The locking pin is pre-configured with its locking features and geometry before assembly. The pin's design incorporates pre-formed locking elements that engage with corresponding features in the housing and circuit board during a single insertion motion, eliminating the need for multiple assembly steps such as threading screws, tightening nuts, or assembling separate snap-fit components.
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 locking pin system effectively secures the circuit board, allowing for a compact and efficient assembly of electronics modules with reduced manufacturing outlay and preserving surface area for functional use, while providing a secure and non-destructive fastening mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a first pin section (2) with a head end (6) and a connecting neck section (8), wherein at least one single- or multi-part cutting or friction collar (6.1, 9.1) is arranged in the area of the head end (6) and/or of the neck section (8)
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are disclosed relating to a locking pin used to secure components in an electronics module. For example, in some embodiments an electronics module includes a housing lower part that includes a lower receiving element and a housing upper part that includes an upper receiving element that is aligned with the lower receiving element. In various embodiments, a locking pin may be used to connect a circuit board in the electronics module. For example, in some embodiments the circuit board includes at least one lead-through opening and the circuit board is connected to the housing lower part via the locking pin that is inserted in a positive-locking manner through the lead-through opening into the lower receiving element. Further, in some embodiments, an upper pin section of the locking pin may be inserted into an upper receiving element of the housing upper part in a positive-locking manner.