Modular Electrical Device Pull Tab Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular electrical devices face difficulties in installing and removing identification labels due to complex operations and the risk of the pull tab coming out of its housing, making the process cumbersome and error-prone.
Innovation Solution
The modular electrical device incorporates locking means to immobilize the pull tab both inside and outside its receiving housing, allowing easy access for label placement or removal while preventing the pull tab from escaping during manipulation, utilizing a label protection cover and reversible latching mechanisms to secure the label in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the pull tab is made freely movable in the receiving housing, then the device allows easy access for label installation, but the pull tab may accidentally come out during manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The pull tab is designed to be movable between two stable positions: retracted inside the receiving housing and extended outside. The blocking means provide dynamic control, allowing the tab to be freely positioned during installation while preventing accidental displacement during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking means are designed to prevent the harmful action of the pull tab coming out accidentally. By providing predetermined blocking positions, the system counteracts the potential harmful effect before it occurs, ensuring the label cannot be lost during manipulation.
2Ease of operation
If the pull tab is completely detached from the housing for label installation, then the label can be easily applied, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the label installation function from the pull tab retention function. The blocking means allow the pull tab to remain connected to the housing while providing independent access for label application, eliminating the need for complete detachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking means are pre-configured to automatically engage and disengage at appropriate positions. During label installation, the blocking means are preliminarily positioned to allow access, and after installation, they automatically return to the blocking position, reducing manual intervention time.
3Reliability
If the pull tab is blocked in a fixed position, then the label is secure, but the tab cannot be moved for label installation or removal
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking means are designed to be dynamic rather than fixed. They can transition between a blocking position (for label security) and a non-blocking position (for label installation/removal), allowing the system to adapt to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking means act as an intermediary mechanism between the pull tab and the housing. They provide controlled interaction, allowing the tab to be held secure when needed while permitting movement when label manipulation is required, without requiring complete detachment.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a modular electrical device comprising a housing (10) having a front face provided with a labeling portion, a label-protecting cover (110) which, together with said labeling portion, defines a receiving recess that opens outwards via a slot, and a pull tab (120) mounted for translation within said receiving recess through the slot. This pull tab has, along one side, a lip (121) adapted to at least partially close said slot when the pull tab is fully engaged in said receiving recess. According to the invention, the modular electrical device includes locking means for immobilizing the pull tab on the housing in a position extended outside said receiving recess.