Modular Plug Connector With Integrated Functional Elements
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug connector assemblies lack the ability to provide additional functions beyond basic electrical connection, limiting their versatility and flexibility in modular configurations.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of modular contact inserts with connection spaces that allow for the attachment of functional elements such as contact bridges, disconnecting blades, fuses, and diode elements, enabling the electrical connection and potential distribution between plug openings, thereby enhancing the functionality of plug connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If basic modular contact inserts are used for electrical connection, then electrical connectivity is achieved, but additional electrical functions (such as potential distribution, switching, protection) cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The contact insert is designed to perform multiple functions by integrating functional elements directly onto its housing body. The housing body serves both as a structural support and as a carrier for functional elements such as contact bridges, disconnecting blades, fuses, and diode elements, allowing a single component to provide electrical connection, potential distribution, switching, and protection functions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the contact insert structure with additional functional elements into a single integrated assembly. The functional elements are attached to the housing body of the contact insert, merging what would traditionally be separate components into one unified unit that can be inserted as a single module into the holding frame
2Adaptability or versatility
If functional elements are attached to contact inserts, then additional electrical functions are enabled, but the complexity of assembly and configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular contact inserts that can be independently configured with different functional elements. Each contact insert represents a discrete module that can be manufactured and assembled separately, then inserted into the holding frame as a complete unit, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining configurability
Solution Approach 2:
Functional elements are pre-attached to the housing body of the contact insert during the manufacturing process. This preliminary assembly of functional elements onto the contact insert housing allows for standardized production and simplifies field installation, as the complete functional unit is ready for insertion without requiring additional assembly steps at the installation site
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly of a plug connector part includes: a holding frame having a frame opening for receiving a plurality of modular contact inserts on a plurality of plug-in spaces arranged alongside one another along a width direction; and at least one modular contact insert insertable into the frame opening at at least one plug-in space, an arrangement of plug openings for connecting electrical conductors being disposed on the at least one modular contact insert. The at least one modular contact insert has an arrangement of connection spaces that are assigned to the plug openings and to which at least one functional element is attachable to electrically connect two plug openings to one another.