Modular Plug-in Connector with Fixed Grid Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors have limited variability and require complex, costly assembly and maintenance, making it difficult to configure and replace contact carrier modules efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular connector design featuring a frame with a fixed grid of webs and spacings that allows for detachable latching of contact carrier modules in various widths, including half-integer multiples of the base module width, using latching elements and coding grooves/ribs for secure and orientation-specific attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed frame with standardized housings is used, then manufacturing is simplified and costs are reduced, but configurability and adaptability to customer-specific contact arrangements are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is segmented into a standardized base structure with modular attachment points, while contact carrier modules can be selectively added or removed. This segmentation allows the frame to maintain simple standardized manufacturing while accommodating various contact configurations through modular additions.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is designed with universal attachment features that can accommodate different types and configurations of contact carrier modules. The standardized housing includes multiple mounting positions and interfaces that can adapt to various customer-specific requirements without requiring custom frame designs.
2Ease of repair
If contact carrier modules are permanently fixed in the frame, then structural stability is improved, but maintenance and replacement work becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between contact carrier modules and frame is designed to be dynamically changeable rather than permanently fixed. Quick-release mechanisms and detachable mounting features enable modules to be easily removed and replaced while maintaining secure attachment during operation, balancing stability with maintainability.
3Ease of operation
If a two-part frame with multiple locking mechanisms is used, then secure locking of contact modules is achieved, but assembly complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking functions are merged into a single integrated attachment mechanism. The standardized housing combines positioning features, securing elements, and alignment guides into one unified structure that provides secure locking without requiring separate complex components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. Coding ribs and corresponding recesses automatically guide and position contact carrier modules during assembly, while the locking features engage automatically without requiring complex manual operation or multiple separate locking steps.
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
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Figure 7~9
AI summary
The invention relates to a plug-in connector comprising a frame (10) for detachably latching a plurality of contact support modules (20, 21) of the width 0.5×B, 1×B, 1.5×B or 2×B, the frame being formed by two mutually opposed longitudinal lateral walls (11) and by two mutually opposed transversal lateral walls (12), wherein at least two contact support modules (20, 21) of different width can be received in and latched to the frame, the contact support modules having at least one latching element (23) that interacts with a corresponding counter-latching element (13) arranged on the frame in order to detachably secure the contact support modules in the frame, a rigid grid of latching elements being arranged externally on the longitudinal lateral walls (11) of the frame (10) at a uniform grid spacing of the counter-latching elements (13) of 0.5×B.