One-Piece Plastic Holding Frame With Resilient Wall Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holding frames for connector modules are either complex with multiple components or require intricate assembly, making it difficult to securely latch and hold plug modules with different plug faces.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece plastic holding frame with peripheral collar segments separated by slots, featuring window-like openings and guide grooves with insertion bevels, allowing easy insertion and secure latching of connector modules through resilient wall segments and latching arms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a holding frame is made from two halves connected in an articulated manner, then connector modules can be held in a form-fitting manner, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate articulated halves into a single one-piece plastic injection-molded holding frame. The collar is formed as an integrated structure with the frame, eliminating the need for separate components and complex assembly while maintaining the form-fitting holding capability through precision molding of the collar geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The one-piece holding frame structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, forms the collar for connector modules, creates the slots and wall segments for latching, and integrates the guide grooves. This multi-functionality reduces component count while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If a metal jointed holding frame is used, then connector modules can be securely held, but the number of components increases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical jointed metal structure with a plastic injection-molded one-piece structure. The elastic latching action is achieved through resilient plastic wall segments that deflect and snap back, substituting complex mechanical joints with material elasticity while simplifying manufacturing to a single molding process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter from metal to plastic, which fundamentally alters the manufacturing approach from metalworking and assembly to injection molding. This parameter change enables a one-piece construction that maintains secure latching through the elastic properties of plastic while dramatically simplifying the manufacturing process.
3Strength
If rigid wall segments are used in the holding frame, then structural strength is maintained, but insertion of connector modules becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic elasticity to the wall segments, allowing them to deflect outward during insertion and then spring back to secure the connector module. This dynamic behavior enables easy insertion while maintaining structural integrity through the resilient plastic material that returns to its original shape after deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses thin, flexible plastic wall segments with elastic memory that can temporarily deform to accommodate insertion and then recover to provide secure holding. These flexible wall segments maintain overall structural strength while enabling smooth insertion through their ability to elastically deform during the insertion process.
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 easier and more secure insertion and latching of connector modules with reduced component complexity, enabling a simpler manufacturing process and improved assembly efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the wall segments being formed as resilient elements and the slots being formed to reach approximately to the middle of the collar height, as a result of which an elastic wall segment is formed in each case
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
Frame has wall segments (9) that are separated at its plug connector side by slots (8). An insertion area for a plug connector module is formed by two symmetrical opposite wall segments. The wall segments include a guiding groove (7), which is formed above a window-like opening by a window bar arranged on the wall segment. The window bar includes a guiding slope on the inner side. The frame is made from plastic as one piece.