Retractable DIN Clip for Tool-Free Rail Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional DIN rail mounts are cumbersome and costly, requiring multiple parts and tools for disassembly, which complicates servicing and part replacement, especially when devices are connected to busbars, as they do not allow easy removal or repositioning of devices along the rail.
Innovation Solution
A retractable DIN clip system with a pivotally attached arm and a knob-like feature that transitions between locked and unlocked positions, allowing devices to be easily mounted and dismounted from the DIN rail without the need for tools, by spanning the rail width and engaging/disengaging with the rail flanges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional DIN rail mounts with multiple latches and locking features are used, then the device is securely fastened to the DIN rail, but the device cannot be easily removed or serviced without tools and excessive parts
Solution Approach 1:
The DIN clip is divided into distinct functional segments: a body portion that attaches to the device, an arm portion that engages the DIN rail, and a knob-like feature for actuation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining secure mounting and easy removal capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential mounting function from complex multi-latch systems and implements it through a single integrated DIN clip assembly. By removing unnecessary latches and locking features, the design achieves secure fastening with minimal parts, enabling tool-free operation for both installation and removal
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional DIN rail mounts with excessive locking features are used, then the device is securely mounted, but the manufacturing cost and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions previously requiring separate components (mounting, locking, and release mechanisms) are merged into a single integrated DIN clip assembly. The arm portion provides both engagement and locking functionality, while the knob-like feature combines actuation and release operations, significantly reducing part count and manufacturing complexity while maintaining reliable secure mounting
Solution Approach 2:
The DIN clip design enables self-servicing through its spring-loaded arm and knob-like feature mechanism. The spring automatically engages the arm with the DIN rail flange upon installation, and the knob-like feature allows operators to disengage the arm without tools, eliminating the need for complex locking mechanisms and reducing manufacturing costs while ensuring reliable mounting
3Productivity
If devices are connected to busbar on DIN rail, then electrical connection is established, but servicing requires disconnecting all other components which is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the device from the DIN rail system in a single vertical removal motion without requiring horizontal displacement or disconnection of adjacent components. The DIN clip's design allows the mounted device to be pulled straight off the rail while the arm disengages from the flange, enabling rapid servicing even when multiple devices are mounted along the rail
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded arm provides dynamic engagement that automatically adapts to the DIN rail flange position. During removal, the spring allows the arm to flex and disengage smoothly as the device is pulled away, enabling quick servicing without requiring precise alignment or disconnection of neighboring components mounted on the rail
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
Enables efficient and cost-effective mounting and dismounting of devices on DIN rails, allowing for easy servicing and repositioning without the need for excessive parts or tools, improving operational efficiency and reducing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
A DIN clip arm is pivotally attached to the first end of the DIN clip body. The DIN clip arm is configured to span the width of the DIN rail and to pivotally transition between locked and unlocked positions.
Implementation Method 2
Another flexible or spring-loaded latch that engages the other side of the DIN rail
Data Source
AI summary
A DIN clip apparatus with a housing in which components are disposed. The housing has a bottom edge which abuts the DIN rail when the apparatus is mounted thereon. A DIN clip is attached to the bottom edge of the housing. The DIN clip includes a DIN clip body that is disposed to a first side of a DIN rail. The DIN clip body has a first end which is closest to the DIN rail, and a second end which is farthest from the DIN rail. A DIN clip arm is pivotally attached to the first end of the DIN clip body. The DIN clip arm is configured to span the width of the DIN rail and to pivotally transition between locked and unlocked positions. The DIN clip arm is configured to attach to a second side of the DIN rail opposite the first side, when in the locked position.