PCB Interlocking System with Flexible Tab
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional automation and control systems suffer from damage to the housing during the insertion and removal of printed circuit boards due to deformation, which leads to instability and potential accidental opening of locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
An interlocking system with flexible locking members and attachment features is implemented, allowing the printed circuit board to be securely engaged within the device housing without causing substantial deformation, using cantilevered tabs and extensions that flex to lock the board in place and prevent accidental disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional insertion and removal methods are used, then the printed circuit board can be easily installed and removed, but the housing suffers damage and deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is segmented into a fixed portion and a movable locking member portion. The locking member can flex independently during insertion and removal operations, allowing the board to be installed and removed without transmitting force to the entire housing structure, thus preventing housing deformation while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is designed with dynamic flexibility, allowing it to bend and deform elastically during the insertion and removal processes. This dynamic behavior absorbs the mechanical stresses of board installation and removal, preventing these forces from damaging the rigid housing while still providing secure locking when engaged.
2Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms are used, then the printed circuit board can be secured, but the locking mechanism becomes unstable and may accidentally open
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member functions as a flexible structural element that engages with the board's locking feature. Its flexibility allows it to adapt to minor misalignments and vibrations without disengaging, while its engagement with the board provides stable locking. The flexible nature prevents accidental opening from external forces while maintaining reliable securing of the board.
3Reliability
If rigid locking structures are used, then the printed circuit board can be securely held, but damage occurs to the housing during insertion and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member's mechanical properties are optimized by changing its rigidity parameter - it is designed to be flexible rather than rigid. This allows the locking member to deform elastically during insertion and removal, absorbing impact forces and preventing them from damaging the housing, while still providing reliable securing when engaged with the board's locking feature.
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 system enables secure and tool-free assembly and disassembly of printed circuit boards, preventing damage to the device housing and ensuring the locking mechanism remains stable during operation, while also preventing accidental opening.
Implementation Method 1
a locking member having a tab coupled at a first end of the tab to a side wall of the device housing and free at a second end of the tab such that the tab is configured to flex about the first end when the printed circuit board is slid into the device housing and the projection is pushed against the second end of the tab
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic component and housing interlocking system is provided. The system includes a device housing configured to hold a printed circuit board. The printed circuit board includes a projection from a side of the printed circuit board. The system also includes a locking member having a tab coupled at a first end of the tab to a side wall of the device housing and free at a second end of the tab such that the tab is configured to flex about the first end when the printed circuit board is slid into the device housing and the projection is pushed against the second end of the tab. The tab includes an opening configured to receive the projection after being slid past the second end such that the tab engages the printed circuit board within the device housing in a locked position.