Toolless Module Support Device with Sliding Removal Position
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support devices for electronic modules, such as electronic shelf labels, require a special tool for removal, which can be lost or misplaced, leading to logistical issues and delays in module positioning changes.
Innovation Solution
A support device with an alignment wall and a removal opening, allowing modules to be moved between a holding and removal position without the need for a special tool, using a unique movement sequence to access the removal opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a special tool with magnetic field is used to retract the blocking element for removal, then the module can be securely held and removed, but the device complexity increases and the special tool can be lost or misplaced
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic blocking element is extracted from the module and integrated into the support device instead. This eliminates the need for a separate special tool, as the support device itself provides the magnetic retention and release mechanism through its integrated blocking element
Solution Approach 2:
The support device provides self-service by incorporating the magnetic blocking element that automatically retains and releases modules. The toolless release mechanism allows users to simply push the module to activate the magnetic release, eliminating dependency on external specialized tools
2Reliability
If a pin-like magnetic blocking element is integrated into the module, then secure fastening is achieved, but logistical problems arise due to special delivery conditions for strong permanent magnets
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic blocking element is extracted from the module and relocated to the support device. This transfers the logistical burden from module manufacturing to support device manufacturing, where magnetic components can be more easily integrated during assembly without affecting module production and distribution
Solution Approach 2:
The support device acts as an intermediary that houses the magnetic blocking element. This mediator approach allows the magnetic component to be separated from the module, enabling standard module manufacturing and distribution while maintaining secure fastening through the support device's integrated magnetic mechanism
3Reliability
If the module dimension is larger than the removal opening width, then unauthorized removal is prevented, but the module cannot be removed without moving to a specific position
Solution Approach 1:
The module must be preliminarily moved to a specific position where the removal opening aligns with the module's removal surface before it can be extracted. This preliminary positioning action ensures that only intentional removal attempts are successful, while accidental or unauthorized attempts fail due to the size mismatch between module and opening
Data Source
AI summary
A support device for supporting a module, wherein the support device comprises an alignment wall for aligning the module which is inserted into the support device and the alignment wall comprises a longitudinal extent and a transverse extent running normal thereto, wherein the support device is designed in such a manner that the module, which is inserted as intended into the support device, can be moved inside the support device in a manner corresponding to or along the transverse extent of the alignment wall between a removal position and a holding position, in which the module is aligned on the alignment wall, and that the shape or the cross section of the support device forms a removal opening at a distance from the alignment wall, through which removal opening the module can only be removed from the support device starting from the removal position.