Modular Electronic Assembly Pivoting Mounting Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular electronic assemblies in devices like video surveillance systems installed at heights face difficulties in maintenance due to restricted operator movement and sensitivity to climatic conditions, making module replacement challenging and prone to accidents.

Innovation Solution

A modular electronic assembly with a pivoting mechanism and clipping hook system that allows single-handed operation, combined with magnetic retention and stop mechanisms to secure modules in place, facilitating easy installation and removal without tools, and reducing the risk of accidental falls.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional screw fixing means are used to secure modules on the support, then the module is firmly fixed, but the removal and installation process becomes complex and requires two hands and special tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of module removal and installationVSAvoidcomplexity of fixing mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing mechanism is segmented into two independent functions: a clipping mechanism for easy attachment/detachment and a magnetic retention mechanism for secure holding. This segmentation allows each mechanism to be optimized for its specific function, making module removal and installation simple while maintaining firm fixation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A magnetic retention mechanism acts as an intermediary between the module and the support structure. The magnet provides automatic retention without requiring direct mechanical connection, enabling tool-free removal while ensuring secure fixing during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If modules are mounted high up on supports like CCTV cameras on pylons, then the system can monitor wide areas, but access for maintenance becomes dangerous and difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation flexibility in difficult locationsVSAvoidease of maintenance operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic retention mechanism enables self-service maintenance operations. The magnet automatically retains the module during operation, and the same magnetic force assists in removing the module during maintenance, eliminating the need for complex manual handling procedures even at heights.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The clipping mechanism changes the interaction parameter between the module and support from requiring significant mechanical force (screw fixing) to requiring minimal force (magnetic retention), making maintenance operations feasible at difficult locations without specialized equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If manual screw fixing is used for modules, then the connection is secure, but the operation time for replacement increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity of module connectionVSAvoidtime for module replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic retention mechanism is pre-configured to automatically engage when the module is inserted into the support. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming screw fastening operations during installation and removal, while maintaining secure connection throughout operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The traditional mechanical screw-fixing system is replaced with a magnetic retention system. This substitution maintains connection security through magnetic force while dramatically reducing the time required for module replacement, as no manual fastening or unfastening operations are needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Ease of repair

If operators work in exposed conditions on ladders or mobile platforms, then module replacement can be performed, but safety risks increase due to climatic conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to perform maintenanceVSAvoidsafety during maintenance operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic retention mechanism enables maintenance operations to be performed with minimal manual handling required. The magnet automatically secures the module, reducing the operator's exposure time in dangerous conditions and eliminating the need for complex manual manipulation that increases safety risks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic retention mechanism provides beforehand cushioning by automatically securing the module before any manual handling is required. This prevents accidental drops or misplacement during the maintenance process, reducing safety risks associated with working in exposed conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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

Enhances the ease and safety of module replacement in difficult conditions by allowing single-handed operation and secure retention, reducing the duration and risk of accidents during maintenance.

Implementation Method 1

a clipping hook protruding from the outside of its housing and adapted to be clipped removably onto a pivot rod provided on said support and extending along said axis of rotation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Fastening: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 2

magnetic retention and stop mechanisms to secure modules in place

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 3

designed to be mounted removably in a service position on a support by a pivoting movement around an axis of rotation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPivoting movement: Hinge

Data Source

PatentEP3952624B1Modular electronic assembly and mobile video system comprising such an assembly
Publication Date: 2024.07.10 VDSYS
  • EP3952624B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3952624B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3952624B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a modular electronic assembly (300) comprising several electronic modules (350) each comprising a housing containing at least one electronic device, and a support (310) provided for removably accommodating said modules (350), this support (310) comprising a chassis (311) comprising a panel (312) and pivoting mounting means comprising a pivoting cylindrical rod (315) carried by said chassis (311) and on which a clipping hook (370) projecting outside the housing of each of said modules (350) can be removably clipped to allow their mounting in a service position in which these modules (350) are arranged side by side in a predetermined direction parallel to said panel (312) and where their front faces extend coplanarly.