Panel Adapter Guide Structure for Error-Free 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 orientation of securing means, which can slip or become wedged.
Innovation Solution
A panel adapter with a frame element and guide structure that slidably guides a slider element, ensuring correct alignment and orientation, preventing the electric connector from being removed and facilitating secure 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 mounted, but the installation becomes time-consuming and prone to mistakes due to the need for precise positioning and orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The securing means is integrated into the panel adapter as a unified component rather than being a separate element. The slider element combines the securing function with the positioning function, eliminating the need for separate alignment and insertion steps. This merging of functions reduces installation time while maintaining secure mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel adapter is pre-configured with the slider element in a ready-to-install state. The guide structure is already formed on the panel adapter, so no additional alignment or positioning actions are needed during installation. The slider element is designed to automatically find its correct position through the guide structure, eliminating time-consuming manual alignment.
2Reliability
If a separate securing means is used to mount the electric connector, then secure mounting is achieved, but the error rate increases due to the complexity of positioning and orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The guide structure acts as an intermediary element between the slider element and the final mounting position. It provides physical guidance and constraints that automatically ensure correct positioning and orientation of the slider element relative to the panel adapter, eliminating the need for high-precision manual alignment while maintaining mounting reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide structure is pre-formed on the panel adapter with precise geometry that defines the correct position and orientation of the slider element. This preliminary preparation of the guiding features ensures that during installation, the slider element automatically assumes the correct orientation without requiring high-precision manual positioning actions.
3Reliability
If the securing means must be positioned and aligned correctly during installation, then secure mounting is achieved, but the ease of operation decreases due to the complex installation procedure
Solution Approach 1:
The slider element is designed to self-align and self-position using the guide structure during installation. The guide structure provides physical constraints that automatically guide the slider element into its correct position and orientation without requiring external alignment tools or complex manual manipulation. This self-service mechanism simplifies the installation operation while ensuring reliable mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide structure serves as an intermediary that mediates between the installer and the slider element. It translates simple installation actions into precise positioning and orientation of the securing means, making the installation process easier while maintaining mounting reliability. The guide structure absorbs the complexity of alignment, leaving only simple insertion and sliding actions for the installer.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a panel adapter (1) for mounting an electric connector (2) to a panel (6), the panel adapter (1) comprising a frame element (12) with at least one frame opening (14) configured to at least partially receive the electric connector (2) in an insertion direction (16) and with a bearing surface (20) surrounding the frame opening (14), and at least one guide structure (30) for slidably guiding a slider element (28) movable along the bearing surface (20) in a translation direction (32), wherein the frame opening (14) extends through the frame element (12) in the insertion direction (16), wherein the guide structure (30) is located on the bearing surface (20), and wherein the translation direction (32) extends transversely to the insertion direction (16). The guide structure (30) facilitates the correct positioning and aligning of the slider element (28) and also helps maintaining the right orientation of the slider element (28) during its installation. Thus, the present invention achieves easier installation, while lowering the risk of the slider element (28) slipping away or becoming wedged. Further, the present invention relates to an adapter assembly (8) comprising such a panel adapter (1) as well as a connection set (10) comprising such an adapter assembly (8) and the use of a guide structure (30).