Rotatable Fastening Rod with Sensor Barrier for Modular Rail Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection devices for connection, measurement, and control electronics in production technology lack quick and easy handling and adaptability, making them inefficient for rapid changes in production line requirements.
Innovation Solution
A connection device arrangement featuring a rotatable fastening rod with a sensor barrier for easy assembly and detection of the fastening state, allowing secure attachment to a mounting rail or base plate, and enabling modular reconfiguration of electrical subassemblies with individual module removal and activation only in the attached state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional fastening mechanism is used, then the connection device can be securely attached, but the handling and adaptability are not quick and easy
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening rod is designed to be rotatable about an actuation axis, transforming the fastening mechanism from a static to a dynamic system. The rod can rotate between a loose state (for easy insertion) and a fastening state (for secure attachment), enabling quick state changes without complex tools or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection device is divided into modular assembly modules that can be individually attached or removed. Each module has its own fastening rod, allowing independent manipulation and quick reconfiguration of the electrical assembly without affecting other modules.
2Ease of operation
If the fastening rod is rotatable for quick attachment, then handling is improved, but detection of the fastening state becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
A sensor barrier provides immediate feedback on the fastening state by detecting whether the assembly module is properly attached. The sensor barrier generates an output signal that indicates operational readiness, giving real-time confirmation of the fastening state without requiring visual inspection or manual verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor barrier utilizes optical detection (light barrier) to indicate the fastening state. When the fastening rod is in the correct position, the light barrier is either interrupted or transmitted, providing a clear visual or electrical signal about the attachment status.
3Adaptability or versatility
If assembly modules can be individually removed, then adaptability is improved, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical assembly is segmented into multiple independent assembly modules, each with its own fastening rod and housing parts. This modular design allows individual modules to be attached or removed without affecting the integrity or operation of other modules, enabling flexible reconfiguration for different production requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly modules are designed with standardized interfaces (recesses and projections) that allow them to be universally attached to the first housing part and to each other. This universal design enables the same module structure to serve multiple functions and configurations depending on production needs.
4Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the light barrier is provided on opposite sides of the fastening rod, then detection is simplified, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor barrier is integrated directly into the housing structure, with sensor parts positioned on opposite sides of the fastening rod. This merging of the sensing function into the existing housing design allows for simple detection of the fastening state without adding separate, complex sensing mechanisms.
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
Enhances handling and adaptability by allowing secure, quick attachment and modular reconfiguration of electronics, ensuring safe removal of assembly modules and efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor barrier, in particular a light barrier, with which the adjustment of the fastening rod from the loose state to the fastening state and back can be detected easily and advantageously. The light barrier is provided, for example, on opposite sides of the fastening rod, the fastening rod having a through hole for passing through a light from the light barrier.
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 1c~1d
AI summary
The connection device assembly (1) has electrical module (2) that has electrical terminals (31,32) and/or connection, measurement and/or control electronics, and is replaceably arranged in a mounting rail (4). An attachment rod has a loosened fastener which is carried out through a recess of the housing portion (22). The electrical module has assembly modules that are contactedly arranged on the housing portion, in a mounting state in which fastener not secured by recess is carried out, and the assembly module fixed to the housing portion is rotatable.