Spring-Loaded Top Hat Rail Securing Device for Vibration Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing securing devices for communications and automation devices on top hat rails fail to provide reliable and simple securement, especially under rough conditions such as impacts or vibrations, often requiring additional assembly efforts like screwing devices tightly to the rail.
Innovation Solution
A device with a basic body integrating a first and second fixing element, where the second fixing element is spring-loaded and engages with the top hat rail's legs, and a securing screw tensions the device for a positive lock, allowing tool-free use and compatibility with multiple rail types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing securing devices are used on top hat rails, then devices can be mounted on rails, but reliable securement under rough conditions (impacts, vibrations) is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The securing device employs a dynamic spring mechanism that automatically adjusts to vibrations and impacts. The spring-loaded fixing element maintains continuous contact pressure with the rail, adapting to dynamic conditions rather than relying on static fixed positions. This dynamic adaptation ensures reliable securement under rough conditions without requiring additional assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing device uses a self-tensioning spring mechanism that automatically maintains securing force. The spring continuously applies pressure to keep the fixing element engaged with the rail, providing self-adjusting tension without manual intervention. This self-service mechanism ensures consistent reliability under vibrations and impacts while simplifying operation.
2Reliability
If existing securing devices are used, then mounting on top hat rails is possible, but additional assembly efforts (screwing tightly) are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the complex screwing operation from the securing process. By replacing the traditional screw mechanism with a spring-loaded fixing element that engages with the rail profile, the device eliminates the need for additional screwing steps while maintaining securement stability. The spring mechanism provides sufficient holding force through its elastic properties alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention substitutes a complex mechanical screwing system with a simpler spring-based elastic mechanism. Instead of using threads and screws to create friction-based holding, the device uses the spring's elastic recovery force to maintain engagement with the rail, reducing assembly complexity while preserving stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional securing methods are used, then devices can be fixed to rails, but compatibility with multiple rail types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The securing device is designed with universal compatibility for multiple top hat rail types. The fixing element's geometry and the spring mechanism are configured to engage with standard rail profiles (such as TS 35), allowing the same device to secure different communications and automation devices on various compliant rails without requiring tool adjustment or complex mounting procedures.
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 device provides a simple, reliable, and secure fixation of communications and automation devices to top hat rails, ensuring stability under rough conditions and accommodating various rail types without additional assembly efforts.
Implementation Method 1
The second fixing element (102, 202) is prestressed in relation to the first fixing element (101, 201) via a spring mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A device for securing a communications or automation device to a top hat rail, wherein the device includes a base body, which can be connected to the communications or automation device on a front side, where at least one fixed first securing element that includes a groove or an undercut that can be engaged with an offset end of a first limb of a top hat rail is provided on a rear side of the base body, at least one second securing element provided on the rear side of the base element, which can be moved in the direction of the first securing element, is pretensioned in relation to the first securing element via a spring mechanism and includes a groove or an undercut that can be engaged with an offset end of a second limb of the top hat rail.