Modular Socket Insert Tool-Free Mechanical Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular socket systems lack a secure and stable mechanical connection, leading to unintentional disassembly under longitudinal or bending forces, and require complex assembly and tool usage, which is not user-friendly for untrained personnel.
Innovation Solution
The socket module incorporates mechanical fastening means such as locking nipples, barbed nipples, locking pins, and guide plates that provide stability against transverse, bending, and axial forces without increasing the distance between consumer sockets, allowing for tool-free assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If modular socket systems are connected only via bayonet connectors, then assembly is simple and flexible positioning is possible, but mechanical stability is insufficient and connections can loosen under improper use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the bayonet connector for electrical connection with additional mechanical fastening means (screws, clips, or adhesive elements) to create a dual-function connection system. This merging ensures both ease of assembly and robust mechanical stability, preventing loosening under improper use while maintaining the modular nature of the socket system.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system uses composite structural elements combining different fastening mechanisms (threaded screws, snap-fit clips, and adhesive components) within a single connection interface. This composite approach provides multiple levels of mechanical engagement, ensuring reliability while preserving the simplicity of modular assembly.
2Reliability
If mechanical fastening means are added to stabilize module connections, then connection stability improves, but device complexity increases and assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical fastening means are designed to be self-installing or self-aligning during the modular assembly process. For example, clips automatically engage when modules are connected, or screws are pre-positioned to align with mounting holes, eliminating the need for separate fastening steps and keeping assembly simple despite the enhanced stability features.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening system is segmented into discrete, standardized components that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows each fastening element to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system simplicity through modular compatibility across different socket module types.
3Reliability
If additional mechanical connection elements are used beyond the plug, then mechanical stabilization improves, but space requirements increase and cable routing becomes less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical fastening elements are nested within or integrated into the existing connector housing and module structures. For example, fastening clips are housed within the connector body, and mounting features are incorporated into the module casing, providing mechanical stabilization without increasing the external dimensions of the modules or interfering with cable routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical stabilization is achieved by utilizing the third dimension (depth/thickness) of the connector housing rather than increasing the footprint area. Fastening elements are positioned in the depth direction of the module, providing robust mechanical connection while maintaining compact overall dimensions and efficient cable routing space.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1D
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~6B
AI summary
The present invention relates to a socket module for a modular connection panel comprising a housing with a consumer socket on a top side and a connector socket on a first side, and a connector plug complementary to the connector socket on a second side, wherein the socket module can be connected to another socket module by means of the connector socket and/or the connector plug, and mechanical fastening means are provided which, when connected to the other socket module, cooperate with mechanical fastening means of the latter to improve the mechanical connection between the socket modules, wherein the mechanical fastening means of the socket module can be brought into operative contact with those of the other socket module without tools and do not impede the establishment of the connection between the modules.and the mechanical fasteners do not significantly increase the distance between the consumer plug socket of the socket module and a consumer plug socket of the other socket module.