Pluggable Module Shell Assembly Using Shear Locking Spring Pins

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Solution Overview

Problem

The assembly of pluggable modules using screws or rivets is complex, costly, and results in a connection with less strength due to tension-based attachment.

Innovation Solution

The use of complementary shells with spring pins and interlocking members that align non-parallel to the mating axis, providing a shear connection that holds the shells together, eliminating the need for screws or rivets.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If screws or rivets are used to hold the shells together, then the shells can be connected, but the assembly process becomes complex and costly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection between shellsVSAvoidassembly process

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes screws and rivets from the housing assembly, replacing them with an integrated snap-fit mechanism where protrusions on one shell engage with recesses on the other shell, eliminating the need for separate fastening components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent integrates the fastening function directly into the shell structure by forming protrusions and recesses as integral parts of the shells themselves, combining the housing and fastening mechanisms into a unified structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Stability of the object's composition

If screws or rivets are used to hold the shells together, then the shells can be connected, but the connection strength is reduced due to tension-based attachment

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection between shellsVSAvoidconnection strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the fastening mechanism from tension-based (screws/rivets pulling together) to compression-based (protrusions pushing into recesses), where the elastic material deforms to create a locking engagement that resists separation forces more effectively

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Stability of the object's composition

If screws or rivets are used to hold the shells together, then the shells can be connected, but assembly time and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection between shellsVSAvoidassembly time

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The housing shells are designed with self-aligning protrusions and recesses that automatically engage when the shells are brought together, allowing the structure to assemble itself without requiring external fastening operations or specialized tools

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 approach simplifies assembly, reduces costs, and enhances the strength of the connection between the shells compared to tension-based connections, resulting in a more robust pluggable module.

Implementation Method 1

A spring pin extends within the first and second openings to hold the first and second shells together

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9210817B2Pluggable module

Publication Date: 2015.12.08 TE CONNECTIVITY SOLUTIONS GMBH

AI summary

A pluggable module is provided for being pluggably received within a receptacle assembly. The pluggable module includes a circuit board configured to be terminated to a cable, and a housing extending a length from a plug end to a cable end. The housing includes complementary first and second shells that are mated together along a mating axis such that the first and second shells define an interior chamber of the housing. The circuit board is held within the interior chamber such that the circuit board is exposed at the plug end. The first and second shells includes respective first and second openings that extend into the respective first and second shells along respective first and second central axes that each extend non-parallel to the mating axis. The first and second openings are at least partially aligned. A spring pin extends within the first and second openings to hold the first and second shells together. A first segment of the spring pin extends within the first opening of the first shell and a second segment of the spring pin extends within the second opening of the second shell.