Railway Sensor Mounting Device With Segmented Plug Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for attaching sensors or switching means in track systems are cumbersome for assembly and disassembly, particularly due to the routing of cables, which complicates maintenance and increases safety risks during operations like track maintenance or when exposed to vibrations and shocks.
Innovation Solution
A plug connection system is introduced, where the plug is accommodated within a housing recess and secured by a cover, allowing for easy separation of the cable and housing, and using an adapter with guide surfaces and counter-pressure surfaces for stability, along with a grommet for cable protection and self-locking Allen screws for assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If non-detachable cable connections are used to ensure secure connection, then connection reliability is improved, but assembly and disassembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into separate plug and socket components. The plug can be detached from the socket, allowing the housing to be removed without disconnecting the cable permanently. This segmentation maintains connection reliability through a secure plug-socket interface while enabling easy assembly and disassembly of the housing for maintenance operations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If cable is routed under the rail to connection points, then connection stability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates during maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The plug connection is extracted from the housing interior and positioned at the housing front face. This allows the plug to remain connected to the cable routed under the rail while the housing can be easily removed by detaching it from the bracket. The cable management is separated from the housing assembly, enabling maintenance workers to remove the housing without manipulating the cable routing under the rail.
3Reliability
If housing is securely fastened to bracket, then mounting reliability is improved, but disassembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system uses adjustable fastening elements that can be quickly loosened and tightened. The bracket includes adjustment mechanisms that allow the housing to be securely mounted when fastened, but easily removed when the fastening elements are loosened. This dynamic fastening system enables rapid installation and removal for maintenance operations while maintaining secure mounting during normal operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The device has a housing (3) accommodating a sensor and/or a switching unit. An adapter (15) is provided for a cable. A socket (14) of the adapter is placed in a recess which accommodates the adapter partially, in the connection position. A cover (17) is provided for the adapter. The cover, in its fixing position, fixes the adapter to its connection position. The adapter carries an outlet tube for guiding a cable.