Universal Locking Module with Bidirectional Submodule Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety locking systems require high design effort for different configurations and are inefficient in repairs, as defective components often necessitate entire system return to manufacturer and require multiple variants for left-hand and right-hand attachments.
Innovation Solution
A functional module with a housing allowing submodules to be mounted in two rotational positions, featuring rotationally invariant electrical connections for easy installation and exchange, and an internal data bus for simplified communication, reducing repair efforts and design complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple variants of the locking module are provided for different configurations (left-hand and right-hand attachment), then adaptability to different configurations is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking module is designed with a universal mounting structure that allows it to be used in both left-hand and right-hand configurations. The housing includes mounting ears with mounting holes arranged to accommodate handle modules on either side, eliminating the need for separate variants for different configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking module is divided into independent functional components: the locking mechanism itself, the housing with mounting structure, and the interface for handle module attachment. This segmentation allows the same locking module to be configured for different applications by changing only the mounting orientation or attached handle module, rather than creating entirely different variants.
2Reliability
If the entire safety locking system is sent back to the manufacturer for repairs when a defect occurs, then reliability is maintained, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The safety locking system is segmented into independently replaceable modules: the locking module and the handle module. When a defect occurs in one component, only that specific module needs to be replaced rather than returning the entire system to the manufacturer, significantly reducing repair time while maintaining system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows for easy replacement of defective modules with new or refurbished units. The standardized mounting interface enables quick detachment of the faulty module and attachment of a replacement, allowing rapid recovery of system functionality without complex repair procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different variants of the locking module are provided for different configurations, then adaptability to different configurations is improved, but ease of manufacture worsens
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal locking module design serves multiple configuration requirements. The housing is manufactured with symmetric mounting features that accommodate both left-hand and right-hand handle modules, eliminating the need to manufacture separate variants and simplifying the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
While the overall mounting structure is symmetric to accommodate both configurations, the internal locking mechanism may incorporate asymmetric features optimized for a primary configuration. The universal mounting ears and hole patterns provide symmetry at the interface level, allowing the same manufactured component to function in either configuration without requiring asymmetric manufacturing for each variant.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a functional module with a housing. The housing forms at least one receptacle for a submodule. The submodule can be mounted in the receptacle in two different rotational positions.