Panel Adapter Assembly for Fast, Accurate Connector Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mounting electric connectors to panels are time-consuming and prone to errors due to the need for precise positioning and alignment of securing means, which can slip or become wedged during installation.
Innovation Solution
A panel adapter with a frame element, fastening element, and guide structure that includes a frame opening for the electric connector, a bearing surface for attachment to the panel, and a guide structure to slidably guide a slider element along the bearing surface, facilitating easy and accurate mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate securing means (circlip) is used to mount the electric connector to the panel, then the connector can be securely fastened, but the installation becomes time-consuming and prone to errors due to the need for precise positioning and alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the frame element, guide structure, and securing function into an integrated panel adapter assembly. The frame element with bearing surface provides both structural support and positioning, while the guide structure integrates the securing mechanism directly into the mounting process, eliminating the need for separate circlip installation and reducing assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel adapter acts as an intermediary component between the electric connector and the panel. It includes a frame element that receives the connector, a bearing surface that interfaces with the panel, and an integrated securing mechanism that automatically positions and fastens the connector, simplifying the overall mounting process.
2Reliability
If a separate securing means is used to fasten the connector, then secure connection is achieved, but the process becomes complex and error-prone due to multiple positioning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the panel adapter: the frame element provides structural support, the bearing surface ensures proper positioning, and the integrated securing mechanism fastens the connector. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the mounting procedure while maintaining connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide structure with its bearing surface and integrated securing mechanism is designed to self-align and self-position during installation. The bearing surface automatically guides the connector into the correct position, and the securing mechanism engages automatically, reducing the need for manual alignment and positioning by the installer.
3Reliability
If precise alignment of securing means is required during installation, then secure mounting is achieved, but assembly errors increase and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The panel adapter serves as an intermediary that pre-establishes the correct positioning geometry. The bearing surface on the frame element is designed to automatically align with corresponding features on the panel and connector, ensuring mounting accuracy without requiring the installer to manually achieve precise alignment, thereby increasing assembly speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide structure incorporates self-aligning features through its bearing surface geometry. During installation, the connector and panel features guide the adapter into the correct position automatically, eliminating the need for manual alignment adjustments and reducing assembly errors while maintaining mounting accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A panel adapter configured or adapted to mount an electric connector to a panel includes a frame element, a fastening element and a guide structure. The frame element defines at least one frame opening adapted to at least partially receive the electric connector in an insertion direction, and a bearing surface surrounding the frame opening. The fastening element is adapted to fasten the frame element to a cutout of the panel. The guide structure slidably guides a slider element along the bearing surface in a translation direction.