Spring-Loaded Locking Hook for Electrical Installation Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical installation devices lack secure attachment mechanisms that allow for easy installation and adjustment of functional elements while preventing unauthorized removal during normal operation.
Innovation Solution
A spring-loaded locking element with a rigid latching hook that engages with a spring detent on the support frame, providing a secure attachment that prevents unauthorized removal and allows for tool-assisted disassembly for settings adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple latch mechanism is used to attach the operating element to the carrier frame, then the ease of installation is improved, but the security against unauthorized removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed as a spring-loaded dynamic component that can be moved transversely parallel to the front surface of the support frame. The spring force automatically engages the locking element with the locking hook during installation, while an auxiliary tool can override the spring force for controlled disassembly. This dynamic mechanism provides both easy automatic engagement and secure locked state.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded locking element acts as an intermediary between the rigid locking hook and the support frame. It provides automatic engagement through spring force while requiring an auxiliary tool for disengagement, thus mediating between easy installation and secure retention against unauthorized removal.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is implemented to prevent unauthorized removal, then the security is improved, but the ease of disassembly for adjustments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded locking element creates a secure locked state during normal operation but allows controlled disassembly when an auxiliary tool is applied. The spring force maintains security while the tool can overcome this force to enable authorized disassembly for adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded mechanism automatically engages and secures the operating element during installation without requiring additional tools or actions. The system serves itself by automatically locking into place, while still allowing tool-assisted disassembly when needed.
3Strength
If the locking element is made rigid to prevent deformation, then the strength of attachment is improved, but the ability to engage and disengage the locking mechanism deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed with spring flexibility to enable easy engagement and disengagement, while the locking hook itself remains rigid to provide strong attachment. The spring-loaded element can deform to engage/disengage the rigid locking hook, combining the benefits of both rigidity and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the attachment mechanism have different mechanical properties: the locking hook is rigid for strong attachment, while the locking element is spring-loaded for easy engagement and disengagement. This local differentiation of quality allows both strong attachment and operational flexibility.
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
Ensures secure attachment of functional elements to the support frame, preventing unauthorized removal and allowing for easy installation and tool-assisted disassembly for settings adjustments, enhancing security and usability.
Implementation Method 1
a spring between a spring receptacle (16) of the locking element and a spring detent (9) of the support frame (3) is clamped, whereby the locking element (16) is pressed in the direction of an end wall (6) surrounding the support frame (3)
Data Source
Figure 1~6
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The device (1) has a base device mountable in a standard flush-mounting box and connectable with an operating- or functional- element (25) by a carrier frame (3). The operating- or functional- element stands in engagement with a locking element (16) of the frame by a lock hook (28). The hook is rigidly formed when the locking element is transversely, spring-subjected and parallel moveable to a front surface/back surface of the carrier frame. The locking element is pressed in a direction of a front wall surrounding the carrier frame. The operating- or functional- element is designed as a joystick, touch screen, loudspeaker or a microphone.