Electric Module Locking Clip for Secure Yet Easy Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric module fixation systems face difficulties in securely attaching and removing electric modules from support frames, leading to inefficiencies in installation and removal processes.
Innovation Solution
An electric device with a support frame and engagement device featuring projections and resilient engagement elements that allow for easy insertion and removal of electric modules, utilizing protrusions and abutments to stabilize the module within the frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If steel springs or resilient elements are used to fix the electric module to the support, then the electric module can be securely attached, but the difficulty in fixing and removing the module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement element is designed as a resilient component that can dynamically change its configuration between expanded (for secure locking) and retracted (for easy removal). This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt between providing strong fixation and enabling simple detachment, resolving the contradiction between secure attachment and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement element changes its physical state between expanded and retracted configurations, altering its engagement parameters with the support frame. When expanded, it provides strong mechanical interlocking for secure attachment; when retracted, it reduces engagement for easy removal. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by allowing the same component to serve both functions under different conditions.
2Reliability
If known engagement systems are used, then the electric module can be fixed to the support, but the ease of insertion and removal decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement element automatically engages with the support frame through its resilient nature, requiring no additional fastening operations. During insertion, the element self-adjusts to lock the module securely. During removal, the element self-retracts to release the lock. This self-service mechanism eliminates complex manual operations while maintaining reliable fixation, resolving the contradiction between fixation stability and ease of operation.
3Reliability
If the engagement element is always in expanded configuration, then secure locking is achieved, but the ability to remove the module is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement element is designed to be resilient and movable between two stable states: expanded configuration for secure locking and retracted configuration for easy removal. This dynamic design allows the system to switch between locked and removable states as needed, resolving the contradiction between maintaining locked position and enabling removal capability.
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
Facilitates easy and secure attachment and detachment of electric modules, enhancing operational efficiency and stability, with the option to remove modules using fingers or tools as needed.
Implementation Method 1
The engagement element is resiliently secured to one face between the upper face and the lower face of the electric module so as to be movable between an expanded configuration and a retracted configuration
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
An electric device comprises a support frame, at least one electric module and an engagement device for locking the main body to the support frame when the electric module is received in the opening. The engagement device comprises a pair of projections which are spaced apart from each other so as to delimit with a portion of the support frame a seat which is intended to receive a connection portion of an engagement element. The engagement element comprises the connection portion which is formed to be received in the seat and is resiliently secured to a face of the electric module so as to be movable between an expanded configuration, in which the electric module is locked to the support frame, and a retracted configuration, in which the electric module can be removed from the support frame. The engagement element further comprises a pair of abutment surfaces which extend one opposite the other with respect to the engagement element so as to act as a guide.