Modular Electrical Device Group With Secure Interchangeable Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current modular electric devices for industrial processes are not economically viable and are bulkier, failing to accommodate diverse function modules and configurations, and lack secure and fail-proof module connection mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A modular electrical device system comprising a base or neck mountable enclosure unit with programmable computing receptacle assemblies and interchangeable function, display, and battery modules, allowing for customizable configurations and secure module insertion/removal through precise mechanical engagement mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional electrical devices are used to accommodate diverse function modules, then the device can perform multiple functions, but the device becomes bulkier and more expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a base unit and separate interchangeable function modules. Each module can be independently selected, inserted, or removed based on specific application needs. This segmentation allows the device to accommodate diverse functions without permanently increasing its base size, as only required modules are present at any given time.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with universal receptacle assemblies that can accept multiple different types of function modules. This multi-functionality is achieved through standardized mechanical and electrical interfaces that work across various module types, allowing one base unit to serve multiple purposes by simply changing the attached module.
2Reliability
If traditional electrical devices are configured for specific functions, then the device can be optimized for that function, but the device cannot be easily reconfigured for other functions
Solution Approach 1:
The device configuration is made dynamic through the ability to interchange function modules. Rather than being fixed, the system allows users to change the functional configuration by removing one module and attaching another, enabling the device to adapt to different operational requirements while maintaining optimized performance for each specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows for the discarding of unused function modules and recovery of the base unit for different applications. When a specific function is no longer needed, its module can be removed and the base unit can be reconfigured with a different module, effectively recovering the investment in the base unit for new purposes.
3Ease of operation
If modules are made interchangeable for flexibility, then the device can be easily reconfigured, but the connection mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical engagement and electrical connection functions are merged into a single integrated receptacle assembly. When a module is inserted, both the mechanical retention and electrical contacts are established simultaneously through the same insertion motion, eliminating the need for separate connection steps and reducing operational complexity despite the multifunctional capability.
4Reliability
If secure connection mechanisms are implemented for module attachment, then the connection is fail-proof, but the module insertion and removal process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is designed to be self-securing through spring-loaded electrical contacts and resilient mechanical retention elements. When a module is properly inserted, the system automatically establishes secure electrical and mechanical connections without requiring additional fastening operations. The resilient elements provide continuous contact pressure to maintain reliable connections while allowing straightforward insertion and removal.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular and configurable electrical device group 10 for measurement, control and display, comprising a first sub-group 11 having a base mountable enclosure unit 21, and a second sub-group 12 having a neck mountable enclosure unit 22, together with a programmable computing receptacle assembly 390, a plurality of function modules 300, a display module 350 and optionally a battery module 380; each member of the group 10 being an independently configurable application specific electrical control device, or as a slave or a master, or in combination to another member; the function module 300 may be an add-on function module 300A, and the display module 350 may be an add-on display module 350A, the function modules 300 mounted with a precisely engaging electrical arrangement till a defined engagement dimension, the function module 300 and the display module 350 securely removed, the display module 350 may have no display component.