Modular Pump Extension Module Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centrifugal pumps face challenges in rapidly incorporating new communication technologies and adapting to changing customer needs due to lengthy product development and certification processes, especially for radio-based technologies, while also requiring cost-effective solutions that allow for modular functionality enhancements.
Innovation Solution
A modular electronic extension module system for centrifugal pump control electronics, featuring a terminal box with a locking mechanism that securely holds the module in place, allowing for easy installation and removal, and a pluggable electric interface for data link establishment, enabling the integration of new technologies without recertifying the main product.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If new communication technologies are integrated into the pump electronics, then the functional scope is enhanced, but the product development time and certification duration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into a main pump control unit and separate extension modules. Each module can be independently developed, tested, and certified. This segmentation allows new communication technologies to be integrated into individual modules without requiring recertification of the entire pump system, thus reducing development time while enhancing functional scope.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal box and electrical interface are designed with universal compatibility to accommodate different extension modules. The same terminal box structure and interface design can support various communication technologies (BACnet, MODBUS, wireless technologies), allowing the main product to remain certified while supporting multiple functions through interchangeable modules.
2Area of stationary object
If extension modules are placed outside the terminal box, then the terminal box size can be kept small, but the mounting mechanism must ensure operational safety and robustness
Solution Approach 1:
The extension module is designed to be mounted externally on the terminal box with a nesting-like arrangement where the module's base plate engages with the terminal box's mounting structure. The locking element with resilient latch engages with recesses in the terminal box to secure the module, ensuring operational safety and robustness while keeping the terminal box compact.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient latch in the locking element provides a cushioning effect by allowing controlled deformation during the locking process. This ensures reliable engagement without excessive force, protecting both the terminal box and module from damage while maintaining secure mounting for operational safety.
3Ease of operation
If a uniform mounting mechanism is used for different module sizes, then ease of installation is improved, but the locking element must accommodate varying module dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting mechanism uses a universal locking element design with a resilient latch that engages with recesses in the terminal box. This same locking element can accommodate modules of different sizes by engaging with appropriate recesses, providing ease of installation without requiring multiple specialized locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient latch provides dynamic adaptability, allowing the locking element to adjust to different module dimensions while maintaining a secure connection. The spring-loaded latch can engage with recesses at different positions, accommodating varying module sizes without compromising the simplicity of the mounting operation.
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 solution reduces development time and costs by allowing for timely integration of new technologies, enabling 'as-needed' functionality and maintaining operational safety, robustness, and ease of handling, while accommodating different module sizes through a uniform mounting mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
The locking element has, at a first side, a resilient latch engaging with either a first recess at the terminal box keeping the locking element in the first position, or a second recess at the terminal box keeping the locking element in the second position
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention refers to an arrangement (1) comprisinga terminal box (2) accommodating a pump control, an electronic extension module (3) extending the pump control by at least one additional function, and at least one locking element (11) for securely holding the module (3) at the terminal box (2). The locking element (11) is slidably accommodated within a cavity (12) and can be moved tool-less from a first position to a second position and removed from said second position to said first position by means of a tool. The locking element (11) has, at a first side (11b), a resilient latch (13) engaging with either a first recess (15) at the terminal box (2) keeping the locking element (11) in the first position, or a second recess (16) at the terminal box (2) keeping the locking element (11) in the second position. Furthermore, the locking element (11) has, at a second side (11c), at least one projecting bar (17, 18) to give free way for plugging the module (3) in the first position, and to arrest the module (3) in the second position. The module (3) comprises at least one pillar (20, 20a, 20b) extending from the base plate (7) and being insertable through an opening (21) into the cavity (12) when the locking element (11) is in the first position. The pillar (20, 20a, 20b) has a notch (24) for engaging with the bar (17, 18) in a form-fit manner, when the locking element (11) is in the second position.