Modular Signaling Device with Integrated PCB Conductor Tracks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signaling devices with multiple modules face issues such as interference of connecting lines with the light image, time-consuming and expensive assembly, and limited module arrangement due to space constraints, as well as reduced variability and separate contacting of printed circuit boards.
Innovation Solution
The signaling device integrates connecting lines as conductor tracks on the printed circuit board elements, allowing for electrical connection via contact elements when modules are connected, eliminating the need for external wires and enabling easy assembly and disassembly without tools, while ensuring reliable contact and increased module stacking capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If connecting lines are routed outside the printed circuit board elements, then electrical connection between signal modules is achieved, but the connecting lines interfere with the light image and require more space
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting lines are extracted from the external space and integrated directly into the printed circuit board elements as conductor tracks. This removes the harmful factor of light interference while maintaining the electrical connection function, as the conductor tracks are embedded within the non-transparent circuit board material.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting lines (conductor tracks) are nested within the printed circuit board elements, which themselves are nested within the signal modules. This multi-level nesting structure achieves electrical connection between modules while containing the conductors within opaque board material, preventing light interference.
2Reliability
If wires are used for connecting signal modules, then electrical connection is established, but assembly becomes time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connection function and electrical connection function are merged into a single integrated solution. The bayonet connection elements simultaneously provide mechanical coupling and electrical contact through integrated contact elements, eliminating the need for separate wire connections and reducing assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual wire connection process is replaced by an integrated mechanical-electrical connection system. The bayonet connection mechanism automatically establishes both mechanical and electrical connections simultaneously, replacing the separate operations of mechanical assembly and wire connection.
3Reliability
If connecting lines are arranged within signal elements, then electrical connection is provided, but space requirements increase and limit the number of stackable modules
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection function is copied from the external wire system to the printed circuit board itself through conductor tracks. This allows the connection function to be achieved within the existing board structure without adding external volume, enabling more compact module design and higher stacking density.
4Reliability
If printed circuit boards are connected separately from signal modules, then electrical connection is achieved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connection and electrical connection are merged into a single integrated bayonet connection mechanism. The contact elements are integrated with the bayonet connection structure, so that one assembly operation simultaneously achieves both mechanical coupling and electrical contact, reducing assembly complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Signal device (1), in particular for a signal tower, for indicating operating states, with at least one signal module (2) which has a printed circuit board element (7; 7') for at least one signal element (8) for emitting a signal, in particular for a light element for emitting a signal light, wherein the signal module (2) is detachably connectable to another signal module (2) and the signal modules (2) are arranged one above the other in the connected state, wherein a connecting line (9) running through the signal module (2) is provided for controlling a printed circuit board element (7") of the further signal module (2), wherein the printed circuit board element (7') of the signal module (2) has a conductor track (10') assigned to the signal element (8) of the further signal module (2) for forming the connecting line (9), which in the connected state of the signal modules (2) is connected via a contact element (11) to a conductor track (10;10', 10") is connected to the printed circuit board element (7") of the further signal module (2), wherein the signal module (2) has a bayonet connector (14) for connection with a bayonet connector (14) of the further signal module (2), and the printed circuit board elements (7; 7', 7") are arranged in a non-contact position in a connected, unrotated state of the bayonet connectors (14) and in a contact position in a connected, rotated state of the bayonet connectors (14).