Modular Rail Interlock Fixing for Vibration-Resistant Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing systems for affixing multiple modules to a rail fixture are not versatile enough to accommodate different numbers of modules without requiring changes to the support structure, and they often lack a robust and easy-to-establish mechanical connection that can withstand external forces like vibrations.
Innovation Solution
A fixing system featuring a rail fixture with first interlocking devices and interlocking modules with second interlocking devices, allowing modules to be affixed by inserting the second interlocking devices through gaps between the first interlocking devices and sliding them into a positive lock along the rail fixture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed support structure is used to affix modules, then the structure provides stable mechanical connection, but it cannot accommodate different numbers of modules without redesign
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into modular components: a rail fixture with multiple equidistantly arranged first interlocking devices, and module bodies with corresponding second interlocking devices. This segmentation allows flexible configuration where modules can be independently added or removed without affecting the overall structure or requiring redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The rail fixture with standardized first interlocking devices serves as a universal support structure that can accommodate any number of modules with corresponding second interlocking devices. The equidistant arrangement and standardized interlocking mechanism enable the same rail fixture to support different configurations of modules without modification.
2Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical connection methods are used, then the connection is robust against vibrations, but the installation process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking devices are pre-configured with complementary geometries (protrusions and recesses) that guide the modules into proper alignment during insertion. The equidistant arrangement of first interlocking devices along the rail fixture prepares the connection points in advance, enabling quick and easy module installation without complex alignment procedures while ensuring reliable vibration-resistant connections.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modules are easily installed and removed, then the system is versatile and adaptable, but the mechanical connection may become less robust
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into discrete, independently replaceable interlocking devices distributed along the rail fixture. Each first interlocking device can engage with its corresponding second interlocking device on a module, allowing individual modules to be easily added or removed while maintaining strong mechanical connections through the distributed array of interlocking points.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking mechanism utilizes multiple spatial dimensions: the rail fixture provides longitudinal positioning with equidistant first interlocking devices, while the module bodies engage through perpendicular second interlocking devices. This multi-dimensional engagement creates robust mechanical connections that resist vibrations in multiple directions while maintaining ease of installation and reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing system includes a rail fixture having a plurality of first interlocking devices arranged along the rail fixture and a plurality of interlocking modules each having a second interlocking device. The interlocking modules are affixed to the rail fixture by inserting the second interlocking devices through a plurality of gaps between the first interlocking devices and sliding the interlocking modules along the rail fixture into a positive lock.