Two-Part Retaining Frame for Plug Connectors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing holding frames for connector modules experience play due to tolerance in mounting means, leading to wobbling and increased friction, which causes wear and potential disconnection issues when connector modules are frequently plugged and unplugged.
Innovation Solution
A two-part holding frame design consisting of a frame base and a securing frame, with recesses on opposite wall parts that form a slot when assembled, allowing for secure seating of connector modules without play, using locking means to stabilize the assembly and prevent disassembly without significant force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-part holding frame with recesses is used to hold connector modules, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the connector modules exhibit play and wobbling due to tolerance accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The holding frame is divided into two separate parts: a first holding frame part and a second holding frame part. Each part has recesses that receive holding means of connector modules. When assembled, these two parts clamp the holding means between them, eliminating play and wobbling while maintaining manufacturing simplicity for each individual part.
2Volume of moving object
If holding means are made small to fit recesses, then the holding frame structure is compact, but the leverage on holding means increases causing wear and play over time
Solution Approach 1:
By splitting the holding frame into two parts that clamp the holding means from opposite sides, the patent distributes the mechanical load across multiple contact points. This reduces the leverage and stress on individual holding means, preventing wear and play even when the holding means remain compact in size.
3Adaptability or versatility
If connector modules are frequently plugged and unplugged, then connectivity flexibility is improved, but friction and wear increase leading to potential disconnection issues
Solution Approach 1:
The two-part holding frame design with clamping action provides stable retention of connector modules during frequent plugging and unplugging operations. The segmented structure with opposing recesses maintains consistent positioning and reduces friction, allowing frequent connectivity changes without compromising connection stability.
4Manufacturing precision
If a two-part holding frame design is used to eliminate play, then connector module seating precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding frame is segmented into two identical or similar parts, each with recesses for holding means. This segmentation achieves play-free seating precision while keeping individual part complexity low. The modular nature allows for simplified manufacturing and assembly of each part.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5a~5c
AI summary
What is proposed is: configuring a retaining frame (1) for retaining plug‑type connector modules (40) in such a way that retaining means (41) of the plug‑type connector modules (40) can be retained, without play, in cutouts (11) in the retaining frame (1). For this purpose, the retaining frame (1) is configured in two parts, wherein a slot (2/3) runs between the two retaining frame parts (2, 3) through the cutouts (11). By underdimensioning the cutouts (11), in relation to the dimensions of the retaining means (41) of plug‑type connector modules (40), a press fit of the retaining means (41) in the cutouts (11) is sought by the retaining frame parts (2, 3) being joined.