Pre-Locked Module Connector Housing for Fast Safe Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of module connectors for electrical modules, such as battery cells in vehicles, is time-consuming and lacks effective protection against contact and dirt ingress, posing safety and functionality risks.
Innovation Solution
A housing assembly for module connectors featuring a screw locked in a pre-assembly position within a passage opening, with a screw flange or insulating material providing protection against contact, and locking projections that secure the screw in place, allowing for quick and safe alignment and assembly while preventing damage to other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the screw is not locked in a pre-assembly position, then the assembly process requires more manual alignment time, but the device structure remains simpler
Solution Approach 1:
The screw is pre-positioned and locked in a retracted position within the housing before the assembly process begins. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for manual alignment during assembly, as the screw automatically aligns with the passage opening when the housing is inserted into the module connector.
2Ease of operation
If the screw protrudes from the housing, then the screw is easily accessible for assembly, but it can damage other parts during alignment and assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The screw is pre-positioned in a retracted state within the housing, preventing it from protruding and potentially damaging other components during the alignment and assembly process. The screw only becomes accessible and protrudes after the housing is properly inserted into the module connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure acts as a protective barrier that prevents the screw from protruding prematurely. This cushioning effect protects other parts from mechanical damage by containing the screw within the housing until the proper assembly stage is reached.
3Ease of manufacture
If the passage opening is open, then the assembly process is simpler, but dirt can accumulate and impair functionality and safety
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure merges multiple functions: it provides structural support, contains the screw in a retracted position, and seals the passage opening to prevent dirt ingress. This integration maintains assembly simplicity while ensuring protection against contamination.
4Productivity
If the screw is locked in a pre-assembly position, then assembly is simplified and alignment is easier, but the screw cannot be easily accessed for final assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The screw positioning system transitions from a static retracted state during alignment to a dynamic accessible state during final assembly. The housing insertion action triggers the screw to move from its locked pre-assembly position to a position where it protrudes and can be easily accessed for tightening.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a housing assembly (1) protected against contact for a module connector, with a housing (4) which comprises a passage opening (12) extending through the housing (4) in a direction of connection (16), and with a screw (6) with a screw head (24) arranged in the passage opening, where the screw is locked in the passage opening in a pre-assembly position (96). Such a housing assembly can be assembled quickly and in a simple manner and at the same time is completely protected against contact.