Power Module Coupling Structure Using Raised Studs for Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing coupling and fixing structures of power modules and casings in power supplies are inconvenient for operators to align, leading to inefficient assembly due to the need for precise alignment of threaded holes and screws, which hinders operational efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A structure featuring a casing with raised studs and a power module with positioning recesses and holes that guide the alignment and locking process, allowing for easier and more efficient assembly by aligning recesses and holes and using locking members to secure the power module to the casing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If threaded holes are used for locking, then the power module can be securely fixed to the casing, but the alignment process becomes difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing reliabilityVSAvoidalignment ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by providing positioning recesses and positioning holes before the locking step. The positioning recesses on the power module board and positioning holes on the casing bottom board are prepared in advance to guide the alignment of threaded holes, making the subsequent locking operation easier and faster.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses positioning recesses and positioning holes as intermediary structures that facilitate the alignment between the power module and casing. These positioning features act as mediators that guide the threaded holes into correct alignment, reducing the difficulty of the locking operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Strength

If multiple threaded holes are provided for locking, then the fixing strength is improved, but the complexity of alignment and assembly increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing strengthVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent reduces assembly complexity by providing positioning recesses and positioning holes in advance. These preliminary positioning features automatically guide the alignment of multiple threaded holes during assembly, eliminating the need for complex manual alignment procedures while maintaining multiple locking points for strong fixation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If good lighting is provided for hole alignment, then the operational efficiency is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by designing positioning recesses and positioning holes that automatically guide alignment without requiring external lighting assistance. The geometric features themselves provide the alignment function, eliminating the need for additional lighting devices or complex alignment tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20170325344A1Coupling and fixing structure of power module and casing of power supply
Publication Date: 2017.11.09 CHYNG HONG ELECTRONIC CO LTD
  • US20170325344A1 patent drawing
  • US20170325344A1 patent drawing
  • US20170325344A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A coupling and fixing structure of a power module and a casing of a power supply includes a casing and three power modules. The casing is provided with three first raised studs and three second raised studs corresponding to the power modules respectively. Each power module has a positioning recess and a positioning hole corresponding to the respective first raised stud and the respective second stud. The positioning recess and the positioning hole of the power module are aligned with the first raised stud and the second raised stud of the casing respectively, and then the power module is slightly moved toward the first side to be positioned and locked. The present invention can enhance the operational efficiency of coupling and fixing effectively.