Module Housing Gap-Free Coupling via Spring-Loaded Detent Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing operating arrangements for control panels with capacitive sensors face issues with reliable functioning due to air gaps between the module housing and the control panel, which are detrimental to the sensitive distance-based operation of capacitive sensor systems.
Innovation Solution
A module housing with a slide-in carrier and detent spring mechanism that ensures gap-free coupling by using a latching hook and spring element to press the module housing against the control panel, compensating for manufacturing tolerances and environmental influences, and optionally providing an electrical connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the module housing is attached to the control panel using conventional mounting methods, then the assembly is simple and cost-effective, but air gaps form between the module housing and control panel that disrupt capacitive sensor operation
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses a dynamic spring element that allows the module housing to move and adjust its position. The spring-loaded detent spring mechanism enables the housing to be inserted easily and then locked in place, automatically compensating for gaps through elastic deformation and maintaining continuous contact with the control panel.
Solution Approach 2:
The detent spring mechanism is self-actuating through the insertion motion itself. When the module housing is pushed into the slide-in carrier, the detent spring automatically engages with the eccentric and locks the housing in place, eliminating the need for separate fastening operations or additional components.
2Reliability
If manufacturing tolerances are tightly controlled to eliminate gaps, then sensor operation is reliable, but production costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical state and position parameters dynamically. The spring element allows the mounting system to adapt to varying manufacturing tolerances by adjusting its compression level, while the detent spring mechanism adjusts the engagement position based on the actual gap size, eliminating the need for tight tolerance control.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element acts as a cushion that anticipates and compensates for manufacturing tolerances and environmental variations before they affect sensor operation. By pre-loading the spring system, the design ensures continuous contact between the module housing and control panel regardless of dimensional variations.
3Reliability
If the module housing is pressed firmly against the control panel to eliminate gaps, then sensor operation is reliable, but the mounting structure becomes more complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The slide-in carrier structure serves multiple functions: it guides the module housing during insertion, provides the locking mechanism through the detent spring and eccentric interaction, and maintains continuous contact pressure through the spring element. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets, fasteners, and adjustment mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution ensures a cost-effective, gap-free attachment of the module housing to the control panel, maintaining reliable sensor operation and compensating for geometric changes caused by climate, driving, or actuation, while allowing for electrical grounding.
Implementation Method 1
the movement of the slide tensions a spring element, which tries to drive the slide back into its original position through its spring force acting between the module housing and the slide
Implementation Method 2
contact is recognized via capacitive sensor elements that are arranged on the outside of a module housing. The gap-free coupling of the sensor elements to the back of the control panel is important for the reliable functioning of such a sensor system. A capacitive sensor usually reacts very sensitively to changes in the distance between the sensor elements and the control panel.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
A module housing (2) is described, comprising at least one detent spring (9) projecting from the module housing (2), by which the module housing (2) can be locked to a slide-in carrier (4), and which can be retracted into the module housing (2) for insertion into the slide-in carrier (4) and for unlocking, wherein the detent spring (9) is coupled to a slide (7) which is mounted on the module housing (2) and is displaceable against the force of a spring element (8) in the insertion direction of the module housing (2). An operating arrangement with such a module housing (2) is also described.