Retaining Frame Assembly for Front-Access Plug Connector Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holding frames for plug connectors require additional space and access to side surfaces for module insertion and removal, which can be inconvenient, especially when the frame is already installed in a housing, and modifying existing modules with deformable locking elements can render incompatible holding frames obsolete.
Innovation Solution
A modular holding frame design featuring a base frame and separate fixing elements that form fixing windows on opposite sides, allowing modules to be inserted into a first part and secured by a second part, without moving the frame's side parts, thus maintaining compatibility with existing modules and allowing installation even when the frame is attached.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If modules are inserted into holding frames by moving side surfaces apart, then modules can be easily installed and removed, but additional space and access to side surfaces are required which is inconvenient when the frame is already installed in a housing
Solution Approach 1:
The holding frame is divided into a base frame and separate fixing elements. The fixing elements can be applied to the base frame in a second step after modules are inserted, eliminating the need to move side surfaces apart during module installation. This segmentation allows module insertion from the connection side without requiring access to side surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
Modules are inserted into the base frame first, and then the fixing elements are applied to secure them. This preliminary insertion before fixation allows the holding frame to be installed in a housing first, and modules to be added later without requiring side surface access, thus performing the insertion action before the fixation action.
2Ease of operation
If deformable locking elements are provided on modules, then modules can be easily snapped into place, but this renders incompatible holding frames obsolete
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented between the module (with locking element) and the holding frame (with receiving contour). The separate fixing elements provided in the invention can be applied to various base frames, maintaining compatibility with existing holding frames while providing easy snap-in installation through the deformable locking elements on modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing elements are designed to be universally applicable to different base frames and module combinations. The receiving contours on the base frame and locking elements on modules work together in a standardized manner that maintains compatibility across different holding frame configurations, allowing the same fixing elements to secure various module types to different base frames.
3Ease of manufacture
If the holding frame is manufactured as a single piece, then manufacturing is simplified, but additional space is required for module insertion and removal operations
Solution Approach 1:
The holding frame is segmented into a base frame and separate fixing elements. The base frame can be manufactured as a simple single-piece component using conventional processes, while the fixing elements are separate components that provide the module securing function. This segmentation maintains ease of manufacture for the base frame while enabling easy module installation without requiring side surface access.
4Ease of operation
If the frame width is increased to allow side surface access, then modules can be installed and removed, but the frame occupies more space when installed
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the holding frame into a compact base frame and separate fixing elements, the base frame width can be minimized for space-efficient installation in housings. The fixing elements are applied separately after module insertion, eliminating the need for wide side surface access during operation, thus reducing the required frame width while maintaining ease of module installation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to the field of retaining frames for a plug connector for accommodating identical and/or different modules (1). In order to provide a way that is compatible with known modules (1) to allow the fitting of modules (1) into a retaining frame, even if the retaining frame is already located in a housing, for example, the invention proposes a retaining frame assembly (10) for a plug connector for accommodating identical and/or different modules (1), having a main frame (11) designed to accommodate a module (1) and a securing element (12) designed for securing to the main frame (11), in such a way that the main frame (11) and the securing element (12) secured thereon together define a securing window (13) for engaging a securing lug (2) of an accommodated module (1) so as to secure the module (1).