Modular Control Element with Magnetic Detachable Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular control elements for motor vehicles face challenges in frequent and reliable connection and disconnection of add-on modules from base modules without compromising the quality of the connection, which is essential for user-side individualization and easy replacement.
Innovation Solution
A modular control element design featuring a base module with a first mechanical connection contour and an add-on module with a second connection contour, utilizing a movable blocking element and magnetic forces to achieve secure engagement and disengagement, allowing for repeated connection and disconnection without impairing the connection quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a permanent mechanical connection is used between base module and add-on module, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of replacement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces a purely mechanical connection system with a hybrid system that incorporates magnetic fields. The holding magnet creates a magnetic connection between the base module and add-on module, eliminating the need for complex mechanical fastening mechanisms while maintaining secure attachment. This allows the add-on module to be firmly held during normal operation yet easily detached when needed, resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and ease of replacement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a modular design with detachable add-on modules is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but connection quality deteriorates due to frequent connection and disconnection cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a magnetic field-based connection system that eliminates wear and degradation associated with frequent mechanical engagement and disengagement. The holding magnet provides consistent holding force through magnetic attraction between the magnet and the holding element, creating a reliable connection that maintains quality even after multiple connection and disconnection cycles, thus preserving adaptability without compromising connection quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the base module and add-on module. The holding magnet and holding element create a magnetic field that acts as a mediator to maintain connection, reducing direct mechanical contact and wear. This intermediary magnetic connection allows frequent module replacement while maintaining consistent connection quality across multiple cycles.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism with moving components is used, then connection security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces a complex mechanical locking mechanism with a simpler magnetic field-based system. Instead of using springs, cam mechanisms, or multiple moving parts to achieve secure locking, the invention uses a holding magnet to create magnetic attraction that secures the add-on module. This magnetic locking system achieves equivalent or superior connection security with significantly fewer moving components and reduced overall device complexity.
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 easy separation and replacement of add-on modules from base modules, maintaining a secure and reliable connection, even in the event of power failure, with increased holding force through strategic magnet arrangement, facilitating user customization and intelligent module functionality.
Implementation Method 1
the module not having the locking element has a holding magnet and the movable locking element has a complementary element that can be attracted by the magnetic force of the holding magnet
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a manually actuatable operating element which is used to actuate one or more devices and comprises a base module (2) and an attachment module (3) that can be connected to the base module (2). The base module (2) has a first mechanical connection contour, and the attachment module (3) has a second attachment contour that can be put into engagement with the first connection contour. The connection contour either of the base module (2) or the attachment module (3) is designed in the form of an engagement contour (19) and is part of a blocking element (10) which can be moved between a blocking position and a non-blocking position. A retaining magnet (7) is part of the module (2) which does not have the blocking element (10), and a complementary element (1) which can be attracted by the magnetic force of the retaining magnet (7) is part of the movable blocking element (10). Thus, when the modules (2, 3) are guided together, the blocking element (16) of one module (3) is in engagement with the connection contour of the other module (2) against the force of a restoring element (16).