Plug-in Unit Assembly Handle Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-in unit assemblies require high connecting force, especially when dealing with electrical connectors of high rated currents, as the force needed correlates with the rated current, making it difficult to connect the plug-in unit to the case efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A plug-in unit assembly with an actuating member that can be moved between a locking and releasing position by turning a handle, which cooperates with the case to reduce the force required for connection, utilizing a locking and releasing counterpart system with hexagonal socket-head screws or screw shanks to facilitate easier coupling and decoupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high rated current electrical connectors are used, then the electrical connection capability is improved, but the connecting force required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plug-in unit is pre-positioned in an outer plugging position where electrical connectors are partially engaged before final insertion. This preliminary engagement allows electrical connections to be established before the full mechanical force is applied, reducing the peak force required during connection while maintaining reliable electrical contact for high rated currents
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a complex active locking mechanism that requires actuation to secure the connection, the design uses a passive locking approach where the plug-in unit is spring-loaded to automatically engage and lock into the case upon insertion. The connection is secured by default through elastic retention forces, eliminating the need for complex locking actuators while maintaining connection reliability
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 solution significantly reduces the force needed to connect the plug-in unit to the case, allowing for easier attachment and detachment, particularly when dealing with high-rated current electrical connectors, by optimizing the mechanical advantage of the handle and actuating member mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
by optimizing the mechanical advantage of the handle and actuating member mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A plug-in unit assembly comprising a case (13) and a plug-in unit (12) arranged to be removably connected to the case (13). The plug-in unit (12) comprises a unit body (121), a handle (2) and an actuating member (9). The handle (2) is pivotally connected to the unit body (121) and operationally connected to the actuating member (9), the actuating member (9) being movably connected to the unit body (121). The case (13) comprises a locking counterpart element (15) and a releasing counterpart element (16), each of which is adapted to co-operate with the actuating member (9) for moving the plug-in unit (12). The locking counterpart element (15) is adapted to move the plug-in unit (12) to a plugged-in position, and the releasing counterpart element (16) is adapted to move the plug-in unit (12) to an outer releasing position.