Magnetic Probe Unit Holder for Tool-Free Precision Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing probe units in measurement apparatuses are cumbersome to exchange and can cause mechanical stress to delicate components due to the need for tools and improper installation, leading to potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A probe unit and holder system utilizing magnetic forces to establish a tool-free, releasable connection, allowing for easy attachment and detachment without tools, with a contact unit and counter-contact unit maintaining a desired rotational position through magnetic axial and circumferential forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical connection methods are used to attach the probe unit to the holder, then the connection is secure and stable, but the exchange process becomes cumbersome and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, clips, or interference fits) with a magnetic field-based holding mechanism. Magnets embedded in the holder generate magnetic forces that securely hold the probe unit without requiring mechanical fasteners, enabling tool-free attachment and detachment while maintaining connection stability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in magnetic field parameters (strength, distribution, and polarity) to control the holding force. By strategically positioning magnets with different polarities and strengths, the system achieves secure holding during measurement while allowing easy release when needed, dynamically adjusting the connection state without mechanical intervention
2Productivity
If forceful insertion is used to attach the probe unit, then the connection is established quickly, but mechanical stress is applied to delicate components causing potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic holding mechanism eliminates the need for forceful mechanical insertion. The probe unit is gently guided into position and automatically held by magnetic attraction, avoiding impact forces and mechanical stress on delicate components while maintaining secure attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as a cushioning mechanism during the attachment process. As the probe unit approaches the holder, magnetic attraction gradually increases, providing a soft, controlled engagement that prevents sudden impacts and protects fragile components from mechanical shock
3Ease of operation
If the probe unit is made easily exchangeable without tools, then the ease of operation improves, but the connection stability and precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary force that maintains precise alignment between the probe unit and holder. The magnetic attraction ensures consistent positioning without requiring mechanical alignment features or tools, achieving both ease of exchange and measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic holding mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides secure holding force, maintains precise alignment, enables tool-free exchange, and guides the probe unit into the correct position. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate alignment mechanisms
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
Facilitates simple and tool-free exchange of probe units, reducing mechanical stress on measurement apparatus components and ensuring precise alignment, thus protecting delicate components from damage.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic axial force FA parallel to the axial direction A is created between the mounting device and the holder, by means of which the mounting device is held in the contact position P on the holder
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic circumferential force FU in circumferential direction U around the axial direction A is created between the mounting device and the holder, by means of which the mounting device is urged into a desired rotational position R in circumferential direction U around the longitudinal axis L
Data Source
AI summary
A probe unit and a holder of a measurement apparatus that can be releasably connected to one another, particularly without tools, are disclosed. The probe unit includes a mounting device having a contact surface and the holder comprises a counter-contact surface assigned to the contact surface. The contact surface can be divided into multiple separate surface sections that respectively abut along a line or two-dimensionally against the assigned counter-contact surface, if the mounting device takes a contact position. The holding force is produced by at least one mounting magnet of the mounting device and/or at least one holding magnet of the holder. Thereby a magnetic axial force in an axial direction as well as a magnetic circumferential force in a circumferential direction around the axial direction is created, so that the mounting device and holder are urged relative to one another in a desired rotational position in the circumferential direction.