Modular Field Module Plug Contact Assembly Without Solder Stress
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Solution Overview
Problem
The modular design of field devices complicates their assembly due to increased numbers of components, especially electronic modules, which need to be connected both mechanically and electrically within a constant housing space.
Innovation Solution
A field device design that includes a housing with an inner space, two electronics modules, a mechanical securement system for forming a mechanical connection, and an electrical plug contact system that allows for secure and space-efficient connection of the modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If modular design is applied to field devices, then cost reduction is achieved in development and manufacturing logistics, but assembly complexity increases due to increased number of components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical connection and electrical connection into a single integrated module assembly operation. The module holder simultaneously provides mechanical support and electrical contact through integrated contact elements, allowing both functions to be achieved in one assembly step rather than requiring separate operations for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The module holder is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs mechanical support, positioning, and electrical contact functions. This universal component handles multiple tasks that would otherwise require separate components, thereby simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining modular design benefits.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple electronic modules are arranged in the housing inner space, then space utilization is improved, but the difficulty of mechanical and electrical connection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection functions into distinct elements within the module holder: mechanical support elements for structural connection and separate contact elements for electrical connection. This segmentation allows each type of connection to be optimized independently while being integrated into a single assembly operation, reducing the overall connection difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
The module holder acts as an intermediary component between the housing and the electronic modules. It provides a standardized interface that simplifies both mechanical mounting and electrical connection, serving as a mediator that reduces the complexity of direct connections between modules and the housing structure.
3Volume of moving object
If modules are mechanically connected, then space-saving arrangement is achieved, but electrical contact requires additional complex arrangements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges mechanical connection and electrical contact into a single integrated module assembly operation. The module holder simultaneously provides mechanical support and electrical contact through integrated contact elements, allowing both functions to be achieved in one assembly step rather than requiring separate operations for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact elements are pre-positioned and pre-configured in the module holder before the module assembly takes place. This preliminary arrangement of electrical contacts ensures that when the module is mechanically installed, electrical contact is automatically established without requiring additional complex connection steps during the final assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular field device includes two electronic modules with a first electronics module secured in a housing inner space. A second electronics module is mechanically and electrically connectable with the first electronics module. Serving for electrical contacting is a plug contact composed of plug- and corresponding socket arrangements. In such case, the plug contact comprises a circuit board, on which one of the arrangements is soldered, and a corresponding circuit board seat at one of the electronic modules. The circuit board seat includes a circuit board guide and an end stop element for the arrangements associated therewith. During manufacture, the circuit board is introduced into the guide. Because according to the invention the end stop is, however, formed on the arrangement and not on the circuit board, no unintended force is exerted on the solder sites between circuit board and the arrangement located thereon.