Monorail Fixture With Claw-Tab Holder For Profile Strips
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing EMS systems face difficulties in simple and fast assembly and lack versatility in accommodating various components and coding systems, with existing solutions being cumbersome and limited to a single type of coding system.
Innovation Solution
A holder for profile strips with activatable non-positive and positive connection means, such as claws and tabs, allows for quick and stable attachment of different profile strips, which can be equipped with various data carriers, and includes features like an impact surface for force transmission and a one-piece metal design for cost-effective manufacturing without additional elements. The system also integrates a profile strip with information carriers for path detection and data transmission using inductive coupling and leaky waveguides.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional code rail holders are used, then the system is simple in structure, but the assembly process is difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is divided into distinct functional segments: a body portion for mounting, claw elements for securing the profile strip, and tab elements for positive engagement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates rapid assembly through modular installation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, rivets, welds) with a integrated claw-tab mechanism that achieves secure attachment through elastic deformation and geometric interlocking, eliminating the need for additional fasteners or complex assembly tools
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single-type coding system is used, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed as a universal mounting platform that can accommodate multiple types of profile strips through its standardized claw-tab interface. Different profile strips can carry various coding systems (WCS, barcodes, RFID), allowing a single holder design to support diverse information carriers without requiring different holder types
Solution Approach 2:
The holder incorporates elastic claws that can dynamically adjust to different profile strip thicknesses and geometries. The spring-loaded claw mechanism automatically adapts its clamping force and engagement position, enabling the same holder to securely attach various profile strip types with different dimensions
3Strength
If multiple connection elements (screws, rivets) are used, then the connection strength is high, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holder integrates multiple connection functions into a single monolithic component. The body, claws, and tabs are formed as one piece through stamping and bending operations, eliminating the need for separate screws, rivets, or welding operations. This merging reduces part count, simplifies manufacturing, and lowers assembly costs while maintaining connection strength through distributed stress across multiple claw and tab contact points
4Ease of manufacture
If a one-piece metal holder is used, then the manufacturing cost is low, but the connection stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The holder utilizes controlled elastic deformation of the metal material in the claw elements. By designing the claws with specific cross-sectional geometries and thicknesses, they can be made sufficiently flexible to accommodate profile strip variations while maintaining sufficient stiffness to provide stable, vibration-resistant connections. The material parameters (elastic modulus, yield strength) are selected to optimize both flexibility and connection stability
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
Enables rapid and stable assembly of EMS systems with multiple coding systems, efficient data transmission, and cost-effective production, while providing a stable mechanical connection and efficient data exchange capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
at least one primary conductor is laid in the direction of the rail, which is attached to the EMS rail by means of brackets. A pickup, comprising a secondary coil, is inductively coupled to the primary conductor
Implementation Method 2
The secondary coil is connected in series or in parallel with a capacitor that is dimensioned in such a way that the resonant frequency corresponds to the frequency of the alternating current in the primary conductor
Implementation Method 3
The means for data transmission is a leaky waveguide, in particular a coaxial cable with slotted shielding
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
Disclosed is a fixture for a profiled strip, particularly a code rail, and a system. Means, especially claws, are provided for establishing a positive connection to a supporting part, particularly a C-hook, while means, especially loops, are provided for establishing a positive connection to the profiled strips.