Sensor-Actuator Distributor Snap Lock for Fast Main Line Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor-actuator distributors require time-consuming and tool-dependent processes for replacing and connecting the main line, leading to prolonged downtimes.
Innovation Solution
A sensor-actuator distributor with spring-loaded slide elements and locking mechanisms that allow for tool-free and simple attachment of the connection housing to the base housing, utilizing locking elements and counter-locking elements that engage securely upon plugging, facilitated by spring forces and guided alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the connection housing is attached to the base housing using a screw connection, then the mechanical connection is secure and reliable, but the attachment process becomes time-consuming and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the screw connection mechanism with a snap-fit mechanism. The connection housing features a protrusion that engages with a corresponding recess in the base housing, eliminating the need for screws and screwdrivers. This mechanical substitution maintains connection reliability while dramatically reducing attachment time and tool requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The snap-fit mechanism is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The protrusion and recess geometries guide the connection housing into proper alignment during attachment, and the elastic deformation of the protrusion material provides automatic locking without requiring external fastening operations. This self-service characteristic eliminates the need for tools and reduces attachment complexity.
2Ease of operation
If the connection housing is designed with a simple plug-in structure, then the attachment process is simple and fast, but the mechanical strength and reliability of the connection may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The connection housing protrusion is designed with elastic properties, allowing it to deform dynamically during the attachment process. When the protrusion engages with the recess, it elastically deforms to accommodate the fit, then springs back to create a secure locking force. This dynamic behavior enables a simple plug-in motion while maintaining strong mechanical connection through the elastic recovery force.
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 quick and tool-free connection and disconnection of the main line, reducing downtime and simplifying the replacement process.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element (14) arranged in the base housing (2), which applies a spring force (F) to the slide element (8)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
Shown and described is a sensor-actuator distributor (1) with a base housing (2) and with a connection housing (3), wherein the base housing (2) has a receiving area (4) for plugging on the connection housing (3) and the connection housing (3) is designed for connecting a main line (5), wherein a plurality of connections (6) for connecting sensors and/or actuators are arranged in the base housing (2) and at least one connection (7) for connecting a main line (5) is arranged in the receiving area (4) of the base housing (2). In the sensor-actuator distributor (1), the connection of a main line (5) is particularly simple in that at least one spring-loaded slide element (8) is arranged displaceably on the base housing (2) or on the connection housing (3), wherein the slide element (8) has at least one locking element (11), that the connection housing (3) or the base housing (2) has at least one counter-locking element (12) corresponding to the locking element (11),that the at least one locking element (11) has a slope (13) which is arranged such that when the connection housing (3) is plugged onto the receiving area (4) of the base housing (2), the at least one counter-locking element (12) slides along the slope (13) of the at least one locking element (11), so that the spring-loaded slide element (8) is displaced from a first position into a second position against a spring force (F) acting on it, and that the spring-loaded slide element (8) is pushed back into its first position by the spring force (F) acting on it when the connection housing (3) is plugged onto the base housing (2), so that the locking element (11) locks with the counter-locking element (12).