Stackable Clamping Carrier Elements for PCB Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching connectors to printed circuit boards in automatic production systems are complex and require precise matching of pin and bore diameters, making it difficult to accommodate varying component sizes and board thicknesses, and limiting adaptability to different housing widths.
Innovation Solution
A modular clamp support element with stackable, cuboid design featuring adjustable connection pins and a latching mechanism, allowing for secure assembly on printed circuit boards of varying thicknesses and widths, and enabling universal use through a form-fitting connection technique.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screw or rivet connections are used to attach connectors to printed circuit boards, then reliable attachment is achieved, but the operation becomes complex and difficult to automate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector attachment function is segmented into two independent stages: mechanical fastening via press-fit pins, and electrical connection via soldering. This separation allows the mechanical attachment to be simple and automatable, while the soldering provides reliable electrical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The press-fit pins perform preliminary mechanical fastening of the connector to the printed circuit board before soldering. This preliminary action secures the connector in position, enabling subsequent automated soldering processes.
2Reliability
If pin and bore diameters are precisely matched to achieve required clamping effect, then secure fastening is achieved, but adaptability to varying component sizes and board thicknesses is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection pins are designed with variable cross-sections along their length, allowing different clamping forces and fit characteristics for different board thicknesses and component sizes. This parameter variation maintains secure fastening across diverse applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection pins serve multiple functions: mechanical fastening, electrical connection, and adaptation to different board thicknesses. Their variable cross-section design enables a single pin type to work universally across different component sizes and board specifications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate variants are created for different device widths, then precise adaptation to housing widths is achieved, but the number of variants and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal support elements are designed as stackable modular units that can be dynamically configured in different numbers and arrangements to accommodate various housing widths. This dynamic configuration replaces the need for multiple fixed variants.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple terminal support elements are stacked and nested vertically, with each element containing connection pins that can accommodate different board thicknesses. This nesting approach allows a single standardized element design to serve multiple width and thickness requirements.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a clamping carrier element for flat assemblies having a housing. The invention is distinguished in that the clamping carrier element (1) is formed on the upper face of the housing in such a way that a plurality of clamping carrier elements (1) can be stacked one above the other by means of a connection technique.