Two Piece Panel Latch Prevents Module Slippage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latches for modules and panels allow slippage due to manufacturing tolerances, leading to inadequate force transfer and potential module damage from applied forces.
Innovation Solution
A latch mechanism with dual housings and projections that securely engage with the module and panel, preventing movement by aligning mating members and securing projections within the module's openings, and using mounting hardware to transfer forces effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a one piece latch is used to facilitate assembly and minimize parts, then ease of manufacture is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to tolerances required for insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The latch is divided into two separate housings (first housing and second housing) that can be manufactured independently with standard tolerances, then assembled together. This segmentation allows each housing to be produced with acceptable tolerances while the overall assembly achieves the required precision through the mating interface between the two housings.
2Manufacturing precision
If tolerances are increased to allow one piece latch insertion, then ease of manufacture is improved, but engagement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By splitting the latch into two housings, the patent allows larger tolerances in individual components while maintaining reliable engagement. The first housing engages the module with one set of tolerances, and the second housing engages the panel with another set of tolerances, with the mating interface between housings accommodating cumulative tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The first housing acts as an intermediary between the module and the second housing. It provides a stable engagement with the module that serves as a reference for the second housing to engage the panel, thereby mediating the tolerance accumulation and ensuring reliable overall engagement.
3Device complexity
If a one piece latch is used to minimize parts, then device complexity is reduced, but force transfer capability deteriorates due to slippage
Solution Approach 1:
The two-housing latch structure enables distinct force transfer paths: the first housing transfers forces from the module to the latch assembly, while the second housing transfers forces from the latch assembly to the panel. This segmentation prevents slippage by creating dedicated engagement zones for each force transfer function.
Solution Approach 2:
Each housing is designed with local features optimized for its specific function: the first housing has engagement features tailored for the module interface, while the second housing has features optimized for the panel interface. This local optimization ensures maximum force transfer capability at each interface without requiring a complex monolithic structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and latch for use with mounting a panel mount module to a panel. The latch includes a housing with a module receiving cavity. The module receiving cavity has cavity walls with projections extending from the cavity walls into the module receiving cavity. The projections are configured to be positioned in openings provided in side walls of the module when the latch is mounted on the module. Securing openings extend through the housing. Mounting hardware is positioned in the securing openings. The securing openings and mounting hardware are configured to be positioned in line with mounting openings in the panel. With the mounting hardware properly secured in the mounting openings of the panel and the projections properly secured in the openings of the module, the module is prevented from movement relative to the panel and any forces applied to the module will be transferred through the latch to the panel.