Modular Fixed-Pole Contact Insert for Flexible Connector Layouts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional fixed-pole contact inserts are limited in their application flexibility and inflexible due to the fixed integration of contact elements, lacking the ability to easily adapt to different applications or combine with modular inserts.

Innovation Solution

A fixed-pole contact insert design that allows integration of modular contact inserts, featuring a holding frame or integral retaining frame for secure accommodation, and spring elements for easy insertion and locking, enabling flexible configuration and expansion with additional contact elements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If contact elements are firmly integrated into the contact insert body, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidadaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The contact insert is divided into a fixed-pole contact insert with firmly integrated contact elements and a separate modular contact insert that can be attached later. This segmentation allows the fixed part to maintain structural stability while the modular part provides adaptability for different applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The contact insert transitions from a completely fixed structure to a dynamic configuration where modular contact inserts can be added or removed. The receiving location and holding frame enable this dynamic adaptation while maintaining structural integrity through secure attachment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If modular contact inserts are added to fixed-pole contact insert, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixed-pole contact insert with receiving location and holding frame serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables modular expansion, and ensures secure attachment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system despite increased adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The modular contact insert is designed to be inserted into and nested within the fixed-pole contact insert's holding frame. This nesting approach allows compact integration of multiple contact elements without significantly increasing the overall device footprint or complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of operation

If spring elements are used for securing modular contact insert, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of insertionVSAvoidlocking precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The spring element provides self-adjusting locking force that automatically adapts to variations in manufacturing tolerances. When the modular contact insert is inserted, the spring element compresses and secures it in place without requiring precise pre-setting of the spring force, making the system tolerant to manufacturing variations while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables the fixed-pole contact insert to be adapted for various applications by incorporating modular inserts, providing a flexible and modular solution that can be easily expanded and configured for different areas of use.

Implementation Method 1

The holding frame has spring elements for securing the at least one modular contact insert in the receiving location

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4270675B1Fixed pole contact insert and contact insert arrangement
Publication Date: 2025.09.24 PHOENIX CONTACT GMBH & CO KG
  • EP4270675B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4270675B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4270675B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

A fixed-pole contact insert (1) for a connector is shown and described, comprising a contact insert body (2) and several contact elements (3) arranged in the contact insert body (2), in which the task of providing a fixed-pole contact insert (1) that can be used for an extended range of applications compared to conventional fixed-pole contact inserts is solved by the fact that the contact insert body (2) has at least one first receiving position (5) for receiving at least one modular contact insert (6).