Plug Connector Module With Elastic Locking Tabs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current modular connector systems require complex operations for assembly and disassembly, making it difficult to replace or remove connector modules without affecting other modules, and they often lack ease of use, especially in industrial settings where protective earthing and mechanical robustness are necessary.
Innovation Solution
A modular connector system with a plug-in connector module featuring a cuboid insulating body with deformable sections that can be elastically moved to lock or unlock, allowing for easy insertion and removal of modules in both directions, even when the connector frame is installed, and a rigid metallic modular frame that simplifies production and use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If modular connector frames are designed with complex assembly mechanisms (such as articulated frames with multiple fixing means), then the mechanical stability and protective earthing are improved, but the ease of operation for replacing modules deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector module is segmented into a rigid holding section and a deformable section that can be independently actuated. The deformable section includes locking elements that can be engaged or disengaged separately from the main module body, allowing individual modules to be locked or unlocked without affecting the stability of the entire connector frame or other modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is extracted from the main module body and implemented through separate locking elements on the deformable section. These locking elements can be actuated independently to engage or disengage from the connector frame, enabling module replacement without dismantling the entire frame structure.
2Strength
If modular connector frames use rigid metallic construction for protective earthing and robustness, then the mechanical strength and safety are improved, but the ease of manufacture and assembly complexity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector module is divided into a rigid holding section that provides structural strength and a deformable section that provides locking functionality. This segmentation allows the rigid metallic frame to be manufactured separately with simple stamping and bending operations, while the deformable section can be attached as a separate component, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the connector module have different mechanical properties tailored to their specific functions. The holding section is made rigid for structural support and protective earthing, while the deformable section is made flexible for locking and unlocking operations. This local differentiation of material properties optimizes both strength and manufacturability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If locking mechanisms are designed to securely fix modules in place, then the stability of module fixation is improved, but the ease of removal and insertion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static fixed state to a dynamic controllable state. The deformable section can be elastically deformed to release the locking elements, allowing modules to be easily removed or inserted. When released, the elastic recovery automatically re-engages the locking elements, maintaining stable fixation during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical properties of the deformable section are changed through elastic deformation. By applying force to deform the deformable section, the locking elements disengage from the locked position. When the deforming force is released, the elastic recovery returns the section to its original shape, automatically re-engaging the locking elements and restoring stable fixation.
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
This design enhances operating convenience by allowing individual module replacement and insertion without disassembling the connector frame, reduces manufacturing costs, and eliminates unwanted noise, while maintaining mechanical stability and compatibility with various modular frames.
Implementation Method 1
The insulating body has a deformable section which can be elastically deformed relative to the holding section, as a result of which the connector module can assume a locked state and an unlocked state
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
For the improvement of the operator comfort of a plug connector modular system, a plug connector module (3') having a holding section and a deformation section is proposed, wherein the deformation section can be moved relative to the holding section in order in this way to assume a locking state and an unlocking state. The deformation section is embodied, in particular, in the form of spring-elastic locking tabs (36), which are suitable for latching the plug connector module (3') on a plug connector modular frame in a manner perpendicular to the plane of the frame. The holding section comprises, in particular, at each end face, two webs (321), by way of which the plug connector module (3') can be held in the plane of the frame, perpendicularly to the end faces (32) thereof in a secure and stable manner in the plug connector modular frame. By pressing together the locking tabs (36), the plug connector module (3') can be easily individually inserted into and withdrawn from the plug connector modular frame on the cable connection side. To unlock the plug connector module (3') on the plug side from the plug connector modular frame, which is, in particular, already installed in a plug connector housing, an unlocking tool (5') is provided.