Metal Retaining Frame With Pivot Locking for Connector Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mounting frames for connector modules require complex handling during assembly, are not suitable for metallic connector housings due to lack of protective earthing, and have insufficient heat resistance and mechanical robustness, complicating the process of replacing individual modules.
Innovation Solution
A retaining frame design featuring a base section made of die-cast metal and a deformation section made of spring-elastic sheet metal, allowing for convenient module replacement and providing protective earthing, with locking elements that pivot during insertion to secure the module without additional user operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a plastic mounting frame is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but protective earthing capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting frame combines plastic and metal materials to create a composite structure. The plastic base frame provides ease of manufacture and modular design, while integrated metal contact elements provide protective earthing capability. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by incorporating both material advantages into a single functional component.
2Reliability
If a die-cast metal mounting frame is used, then protective earthing capability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting frame is segmented into a plastic base frame and separate metal contact elements. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured using optimal processes (injection molding for plastic, stamping or die-casting for metal), reducing overall manufacturing complexity while maintaining protective earthing capability through the metal components.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting frame combines plastic and metal materials to create a composite structure. The plastic base frame provides ease of manufacture and modular design, while integrated metal contact elements provide protective earthing capability. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by incorporating both material advantages into a single functional component.
3Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism is used, then module fixation reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock modules into the mounting frame without requiring additional user operations. The spring-elastic sheet metal elements provide automatic locking when modules are inserted, and can be released by simple manual action. This self-service approach maintains high fixation reliability while minimizing device complexity and user interaction requirements.
4Ease of operation
If spring-elastic sheet metal deformation sections are used, then ease of operation for module replacement is improved, but mechanical robustness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting frame applies local quality by using spring-elastic sheet metal deformation sections only in specific areas where flexibility is needed for module insertion and removal. The majority of the frame structure maintains rigid die-cast metal construction for overall mechanical robustness. This localized application of elastic materials resolves the contradiction by providing ease of operation where needed while preserving structural strength elsewhere.
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 design ensures convenient module replacement, provides effective protective earthing, and enhances mechanical robustness and heat resistance, making it suitable for metallic connector housings.
Implementation Method 1
a deformation section made of spring-elastic sheet metal, allowing for convenient module replacement
Data Source
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AI summary
The application relates to the field of retaining frames for modules, in particular retaining frames for a plug connector for accommodating identical and/or different modules. Alternatives to the known retaining frames are presented.