Surge Protector Plug Module Latch for Shock-Resistant Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surge protection devices face issues with secure and easy removal of plug-in modules during surge currents, as the contact force is insufficient, leading to accidental disconnection due to electrodynamic forces, and the existing locking mechanisms are prone to unintended release under shock or vibration.
Innovation Solution
A pluggable device combination with a U-shaped base and plug-in module featuring prestressed joint latching means, where the actuation surfaces are designed in a triangular configuration for intuitive three-finger gripping, and the locking mechanism includes hook-shaped lugs and recesses with a longitudinal structure for secure engagement and easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking means with parallel locking surfaces are used, then the locking connection is secure, but shock or vibration can lead to unintended release of the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism uses asymmetric surfaces where the locking surface on the plug-in module is inclined at an angle to the locking surface on the base. This asymmetric angular configuration creates a mechanical interlock that resists both insertion and extraction forces, preventing unintended release during shock or vibration while maintaining secure locking during operation.
2Reliability
If the hinge joint is located on the lower side of the plug-in module, then the locking connection is secure, but a very large pressure path is required to release the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating surface is extended in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the plug-in module, creating a wider pressure application area perpendicular to the insertion direction. This dimensional extension allows operators to apply sufficient release force over a shorter effective path by distributing pressure across the expanded surface area.
3Device complexity
If the pressure surface is made small for compact design, then the device size is reduced, but the pressure surface is difficult to grasp and operate
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating surface is extended transversely to create a wider pressure application area that is easily graspable by fingers, while the overall longitudinal profile remains compact. This transverse extension provides adequate surface area for operation without significantly increasing the device's length or overall footprint.
4Ease of manufacture
If locking lugs and recesses run parallel, then the manufacturing is simple, but shock or vibration can lead to unwanted release of the locking mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The locking surfaces are configured with asymmetric angular orientations rather than parallel alignment. The locking surface on the plug-in module is inclined at an angle to the locking surface on the base, creating a mechanical interlock that prevents unintended release during shock or vibration while remaining manufacturable through standard forming processes.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a pluggable device combination for protecting against surges, having a base-like bottom part of U-shaped cross section for receiving at least one plug module which accommodates a surge protection element, wherein latching means which act between the plug module and the base-like bottom part are provided, said latching means comprising first means which are formed on a prestressed joint on opposite sides of the plug module and respectively interact in a latching manner with associated second means on the bottom part, wherein the latching connection can be broken by pressing the joint at the sides of the plug module, and wherein the respective joint becomes an operating area and the operating areas are formed opposite each other on the plug module in such a way that the shape of an at least approximate triangle results given imaginary connecting lines between the operating areas.