Self-Centering Connector Mount for Blind Rack Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection systems for electronic equipment in aeronautical instrument panels face challenges in securely mounting secondary connectors, which are not in the same plane as primary connectors, leading to difficulties in positioning, potential damage, increased costs, and longer mounting times due to the need for elastic strands and blind mounting processes.
Innovation Solution
A connection device featuring self-centering mechanical means and elastic compression springs allows for secure electrical and mechanical connection of electronic modules in racks, enabling simultaneous mounting of multiple connectors within a defined clearance range, ensuring accurate positioning and easy installation without the need for elastic strands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If elastic strands are used to mount the second female connector, then the connector can be extracted during connection, but the mounting becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the elastic strand from the mounting structure entirely. The second female connector is mounted directly on the fixing seat without requiring extraction during connection, eliminating the complexity associated with elastic strands while maintaining secure electrical and mechanical connections
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the mounting structure into separate functional elements: the fixing seat with its own integrated positioning features, and the electronic module with corresponding alignment features. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently without requiring complex interdependent mechanisms like elastic strands
2Ease of operation
If the second female connector is mounted on an elastic strand, then connection is possible, but the mounting time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The second female connector is pre-mounted directly on the fixing seat in a fixed position during assembly, eliminating the need for time-consuming elastic strand attachment and positioning operations during actual connection. The mechanical means for self-centering are pre-configured to guide accurate alignment automatically
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical self-centering means automatically guide the second male connector into proper alignment with the second female connector during insertion, eliminating the need for manual positioning adjustments and reducing mounting time while ensuring accurate connection
3Ease of manufacture
If blind mounting is used for the electronic module, then installation is simplified, but positioning accuracy of the second connector cannot be verified
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical means for self-centering provide automatic feedback during the blind mounting process. As the electronic module is inserted, the self-centering mechanism guides the connectors into precise alignment through mechanical interaction, ensuring accurate positioning without requiring visual verification or adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical self-centering means act as an intermediary between the electronic module and the fixing seat, mediating the positioning process by providing physical guidance surfaces that automatically align the second male and second female connectors during blind mounting, ensuring precision without requiring operator intervention
4Adaptability or versatility
If the second connector is positioned independently from the first connector, then electrical sitting requirements are met, but positioning tolerances become difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing seat incorporates universal mechanical self-centering means that can accommodate the second female connector at different positions and orientations while maintaining consistent positioning accuracy. This multi-functional approach allows the same self-centering mechanism to handle various electrical sitting requirements without compromising precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows for parameter changes in the positioning system by enabling the second female connector to be mounted at different locations on the fixing seat while the mechanical self-centering means adapt to maintain proper alignment. The system can adjust positioning parameters within defined ranges to meet electrical sitting requirements while preserving manufacturing precision
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
The solution provides a secure, efficient, and cost-effective method for mounting electronic modules by allowing self-centering and elastic retention of connectors, reducing the risk of damage and mounting time, while maintaining precise alignment and secure connections.
Implementation Method 1
elastic means arranged so as to hold said second female connector in position in said clearance range
Data Source
AI summary
The general field of the invention is that of the devices for connecting an electronic module in a rack comprising an opening of dimensions close to those of the front face of the module and a seat for fixing and connecting said module, said connection device comprising a first and a second male connector mounted on the rear face of the electronic module; and a first and a second female connector mounted on the fixing seat. In the device according to the invention, the second female connector is mounted in a structure comprising mechanical means for self-centring said second female connector within a clearance range greater than the mechanical positioning tolerances and elastic means arranged so as to hold said second female connector in position. These various means are arranged in such a way as to be able to ensure the blind electrical connection of the electronic module in the rack, its front face resting on the opening.