US20200253081A1 - Adjustable mounting rail latches - Google Patents
Adjustable mounting rail latches Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20200253081A1 US20200253081A1 US16/264,945 US201916264945A US2020253081A1 US 20200253081 A1 US20200253081 A1 US 20200253081A1 US 201916264945 A US201916264945 A US 201916264945A US 2020253081 A1 US2020253081 A1 US 2020253081A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- latch
- mounting rail
- modules
- rail
- adjustable mounting
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 39
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 claims 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 7
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 2
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000000153 supplemental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05K—PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
- H05K7/00—Constructional details common to different types of electric apparatus
- H05K7/18—Construction of rack or frame
- H05K7/183—Construction of rack or frame support rails therefor
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05K—PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
- H05K7/00—Constructional details common to different types of electric apparatus
- H05K7/14—Mounting supporting structure in casing or on frame or rack
- H05K7/1462—Mounting supporting structure in casing or on frame or rack for programmable logic controllers [PLC] for automation or industrial process control
- H05K7/1474—Mounting of modules, e.g. on a base or rail or wall
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02B—BOARDS, SUBSTATIONS OR SWITCHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE SUPPLY OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02B1/00—Frameworks, boards, panels, desks, casings; Details of substations or switching arrangements
- H02B1/015—Boards, panels, desks; Parts thereof or accessories therefor
- H02B1/04—Mounting thereon of switches or of other devices in general, the switch or device having, or being without, casing
- H02B1/052—Mounting on rails
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates generally to adjustable latches for use with mounting rails.
- DIN rails mounting rails
- latches/brackets latches/brackets
- FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an adjustable mounting rail latch, according to an example embodiment, shown in a closed configuration and mechanically coupled to a mounting rail and to a first equipment unit.
- FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the adjustable mounting rail latch of FIG. 1A shown in an open configuration and mechanically coupled to the mounting rail and to the first equipment unit.
- FIG. 2A is a rear perspective view of the adjustable mounting rail latch of FIG. 1A shown in a closed configuration and separate from the mounting rail and the first equipment unit.
- FIG. 2B is a sectional view of the adjustable mounting rail latch of FIG. 1A shown separate from the mounting rail and the first equipment unit.
- FIG. 2C is another rear perspective view of a section of the adjustable mounting rail latch of FIG. 1A shown separate from the mounting rail and the first equipment unit.
- FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the adjustable mounting rail latch of FIG. 1A shown in a closed configuration and mechanically coupled to the mounting rail, but separate from the first equipment unit.
- FIG. 3B is a side view of the adjustable mounting rail latch of FIG. 1A shown mechanically coupled to the mounting rail, but separate from the first equipment unit.
- FIG. 4A is a front view of the adjustable mounting rail latch of FIG. 1A , shown in a closed configuration and separate from the mounting rail and the first equipment unit.
- FIG. 4B is a front view of the adjustable mounting rail latch of FIG. 1A , shown in an open configuration and separate from the mounting rail and the first equipment unit.
- FIG. 5A is a front view of another adjustable mounting rail latch, according to an example embodiment, shown in a closed configuration.
- FIG. 5B is a front view of the adjustable mounting rail latch of FIG. 5A , shown in an open configuration.
- FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a method, according to an example embodiment.
- An adjustable mounting rail latch comprises first and second latch modules that each have a first side and a second side.
- the first sides are configured to be attached to at least one equipment unit and each of the second sides includes an attachment system configured to mechanically couple to a mounting rail.
- a slide-rail system is integrated with each of the first and second latch modules that is configured to slideably couple the first latch module with the second latch module.
- the adjustable mounting rail latch comprises at least one selectively engageable retention device configured to exert a force on the mounting rail to prevent movement of the first and second latch modules along the mounting rail.
- a first equipment unit e.g., a base unit
- one or more additional equipment units e.g., expansion units
- users may have the flexibility to select different expansion units for use with the base unit (e.g., for a particular use/application).
- the form factor of the equipment may change.
- the form factor (e.g., width and weight) of the deployed equipment may increase in different manners for different types of expansion units.
- mounting rails generally referred to herein as DIN rails, for example, and mounting (DIN) rail latches/brackets.
- DIN rails mounting rails
- mounting (DIN) rail latches/brackets Conventional mounting rail latches used to mount base units onto mounting rails may be inadequate, for example, in size and/or retention ability, for mounting both the base unit and any additional expansion units attached to the base unit.
- One solution to such a problem is to use multiple latches or a single, wider latch on the now wider product assembly.
- this solutions is inefficient as it takes considerable time to install/configure and the additional latches need to be ordered by the customer. It is also not cost affective for the mounting rail latch provider in terms of managing multiple latch accessory options to accommodate different customer configurations.
- an adjustable mounting rail latch in accordance with examples presented herein has a first (closed) configuration that enables the mounting rail latch to be used for attachment of a first equipment unit (e.g., a base unit) to a mounting rail. If the customer adds one or more additional equipment units (e.g., expansion units) in the future, the same mounting rail latch can be subsequently adjusted to a second (open) configuration that enables the mounting rail latch to also be used for attachment of the expansion unit(s) to the mounting rail.
- a first equipment unit e.g., a base unit
- additional equipment units e.g., expansion units
- the adjustable/sliding mounting rail latch in accordance with examples presented herein is comprised of first and second latch modules coupled to one another via an integrated slide-rail system.
- the slide-rail system enables the first and second latch modules to be positioned adjacent one another in the first (closed) configuration for use in mounting the base unit to a mounting rail.
- the slide-rail system enables the first and second latch modules to be separated from one another to form the second (open) configuration.
- the integrated slide-rail system allows the adjustable mounting rail latch to become wider so as to also accommodate the expansion unit.
- This slide-rail system is configured to have different widths in the open configuration.
- the adjustable mounting rail latches presented herein enable the end users to quickly and easily adjust the dimensions of the latch to conform to a product's changing form factor (e.g., as equipment units are added, removed, replaced, etc.). That is, instead of un-installing and re-installing new latch designs each time the product form factor changes, at least a part of the adjustable mounting rail latch may remain attached and may be adjusted depending on the configuration change. As such, use of the adjustable mounting rail latch simplifies customer product upgrades.
- adjustable (sliding) mounting rail latches in accordance with embodiments presented herein are described with reference to DIN rails and DIN rail latches. However, this is not intended to be limiting. It is to be understood that adjustable mounting rail latches in accordance with embodiments presented herein may be configured for use with any suitable type(s) of mounting rail(s).
- FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of an adjustable DIN rail latch 100 in accordance with embodiments presented herein.
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 may be formed from aluminum, a rigid polymer, and/or any other suitable materials.
- FIG. 1A the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 is shown in a closed configuration, where the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 is mechanically coupled/attached to both a DIN rail 101 and to a first equipment unit 125 .
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 includes a first latch module 102 and a second latch module 104 .
- the first latch module 102 includes a first side 114 (e.g., a back side) and a second side 116 (e.g., a front side).
- the second latch module 104 includes a first side 118 (e.g., a back side) and a second side 120 (e.g., a front side).
- Each of the first sides 114 , 118 is configured to be attached to at least one equipment unit.
- Each of the second sides 116 , 120 is configured to be attached to a DIN rail.
- each of the first sides 114 , 118 is attached to the first equipment unit 125 and each of the second sides 116 , 120 is attached to the DIN rail 101 .
- the first latch module 102 and a second latch module 104 are attached to one another via an integrated slide-rail system (not shown in FIG. 1A ).
- FIG. 1A illustrates the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 in a closed configuration.
- the first latch module 102 and the second latch module 104 are positioned immediately adjacent one another (i.e., the adjustable DIN rail latch is configured at its minimum form factor width).
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 is attached to the first equipment unit 125 .
- FIG. 1B shown is a perspective view of the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 in an open configuration.
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 is mechanically coupled to the DIN rail 101 , the first equipment unit 125 , and a second equipment unit 127 , according to an example embodiment. More specifically, in FIG. 1B , the first latch module 102 and the second latch module 104 are shown separated from one another (e.g., non-adjacent to one another), where one or both of the latch modules 102 , 104 have been moved (slid) along the integrated slide-rail system 106 . As such, in FIG. 1B , the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 has a different form factor width than in the closed configuration of FIG. 1A . Due to this different form factor width, the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 is able to be attached to both the first equipment unit 125 and the second equipment unit 127 .
- the first latch module 102 has a first end 108 and a second end 109
- the second latch module 104 has a first end 110 and a second end 111 .
- second ends 109 and 111 of the first and second latch modules 102 , 104 are immediately adjacent one another (e.g., abutting one another).
- the second ends 109 and 111 of the first and second latch modules 102 , 104 are separated from one another.
- the form factor width of the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 is defined as the distance between ends 108 , 110 of the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 .
- the first latch module 102 and the second latch module 104 are each configured to be mechanically coupled to the DIN rail 101 .
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 ( FIG. 1A ) is used to attach the first equipment unit 125 to the DIN rail 101 .
- the second equipment unit 127 may be provided to for example, upgrade the first equipment unit 125 , provide supplemental functionality, etc.
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 is adjusted to the open configuration (e.g., the first latch module 102 and the second latch module 104 are separated from one another).
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 may be adjusted from the first configuration to the second configuration based on the wider form factor of the first and second equipment units 125 , 127 as compared to the first equipment unit 125 .
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 may be adjusted between/to different form factor widths based on the particular equipment unit(s) being attached (e.g., added or removed) to the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 .
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 remains attached to the first equipment unit 125 , and can then be attached to the second equipment unit 127 .
- the first and second equipment units 125 , 127 may or may not be connected to each other.
- FIG. 2A shown is a rear perspective view of the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 in a closed configuration.
- FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 , taken along line “ 2 - 2 ,” while FIG. 2C is another rear perspective view of a section of the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 .
- FIGS. 2A-2C will be described together. Additionally, in FIGS. 2A-2C , the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 is shown separate from the DIN rail 101 and separate from the first and second equipment units 125 , 127 .
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 includes a slide-rail system 106 integrated with the first and second latch modules 102 , 104 .
- the slide-rail system 106 is configured to slideably couple the first latch module 102 with the second latch module 104 .
- the slide-rail system 106 enables the first and second latch modules 102 , 104 to be slideably moveable relative to one another in a direction along an axis “A” ( FIG. 2A ).
- This relative movement of the first and second latch modules 102 , 104 enables the width of the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 to change (e.g., the distance between ends 108 , 110 decreases or increases).
- the slide-rail system 106 includes a plurality of slide members 122 and a plurality of rails 124 .
- the plurality of rails 124 are configured to slideably accommodate the plurality of slide members 122 in such a way that the first and second latch modules 102 , 104 are slideably coupled. That is, the plurality of slide members 122 are configured to slideably move along the plurality of rails 124 . For example, as the first and second latch modules 102 , 104 are moved from the closed configuration shown in FIG.
- the slide members 122 a and 122 c may be configured to move along the rails 124 a and 124 c , respectively, and the slide member 122 b may be configured to move along its corresponding rail (not shown).
- FIG. 2B illustrates that the plurality of slide members 122 may be received by the plurality of rails 124 .
- the slide members 122 and rails 124 may form a dovetail-type connection. This, however, is only exemplary and any suitable connection type may be utilized.
- FIGS. 2A and 2C also illustrate that the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 includes a plurality of attachment apertures 112 .
- a user may use these attachment apertures 112 to attach one or more equipment units to the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 via insertion of fasteners through the plurality of attachment apertures 112 .
- the fasteners may include, for example, screws, bolts, and/or any suitable fastening mechanisms.
- the plurality of attachment apertures 112 may correspond to one or more attachment apertures of one or more equipment units (e.g., the first and second equipment units 125 , 127 ).
- the plurality of attachment apertures 112 may be configured to be aligned with respective attachment apertures of the first equipment unit 125 .
- the attachment apertures 112 b and 112 c may be configured to be aligned with respective attachment apertures of the first equipment unit 125 and the attachment aperture 112 a may be configured to be aligned with an attachment aperture of the second equipment unit 127 .
- attachment apertures may be used to facilitate attachment of one or more equipment units to the DIN rail latch 100 .
- fasteners may be disposed through the attachment apertures 112 a and 112 c but not the attachment aperture 112 b .
- attachment apertures are used to facilitate attachment of one or more equipment units may depend on, for example, the size and/or weight of the one or more equipment units, the type(s) of fastener(s), the position of the attachment apertures of the DIN rail latch 100 with respect to the attachment apertures of the one or more equipment units, conditions of the environment the DIN rail latch 100 and the equipment units are to be deployed, and/or any other suitable considerations.
- adjustable DIN rail latch 100 is shown as including three attachment apertures 112 , this is for exemplary purposes only and not intended to be limiting. Therefore, adjustable DIN rail latches in accordance with embodiments presented herein may include any suitable number of attachment apertures.
- FIG. 3A shown is a perspective view of the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 of FIG. 1A shown in a closed configuration.
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 is shown mechanically coupled to the DIN rail 101 , but separate from the first equipment unit 125 .
- FIG. 3B is a side view of the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 .
- FIGS. 3A and 3B will be described together.
- first latch module 102 includes the second side 116
- second latch module 104 may include the second side 120
- the second side 116 of first latch module 102 includes an attachment system 126
- the second side 120 of second latch module 104 includes an attachment system 128 .
- Each of the attachment systems 126 , 128 may be configured to mechanically couple to a DIN rail, such as, for example, the DIN rail 101 .
- the attachment system 126 includes a first latch end 130 (e.g., a bottom latch end) and a second latch end 132 (e.g., a top latch end).
- the attachment system 128 includes a first latch end 134 (e.g., a bottom latch end) and a second latch end 136 (e.g., a top latch end).
- Each of the first latch ends 130 , 134 may be configured to receive at least a portion of a first lip 103 (e.g., a bottom lip) of the DIN rail 101 .
- Each of the second latch ends 132 , 136 may be configured to receive at least a portion of a second lip 105 (e.g., a top lip) of the DIN rail 101 .
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 can be attached to the DIN rail 101 (i.e., a second side of each of the latch modules is mechanically coupled to the DIN rail).
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 further includes at least one retention device 138 configured to be selectively engaged to create a force on the DIN rail 101 to prevent unintended movement of the first and second latch modules 102 , 104 along the DIN rail.
- the retention device 138 may comprise, for example, one or more spring members 140 .
- one or more retention devices 138 may be positioned on each of the first latch module 102 and/or the second latch module 104 .
- the one or more retention devices 138 e.g., one or more spring members 140
- At least one retention device 138 may be pinned by a pin (e.g., a press fit retention pin) to the first or second latch modules 102 , 104 in such a way that allows the retention device 138 to move/rotate at least partially with respect to/around the pin.
- a pin e.g., a press fit retention pin
- the at least one retention device 138 being pinned to the first and/or second latch modules 102 , 104 is only exemplary and that the at least one retention device 138 may be mechanically coupled to the first and/or second latch modules 102 , 104 by any suitable mechanism(s).
- any suitable type(s) of pin(s) may be used, as a press fit retention pin is only exemplary.
- the DIN rail 101 comprises a base member 113 , a first lip 103 , and a second lip 105 .
- the lips 103 and 105 are coupled to the base member 113 via arms 107 .
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 may be positioned such that a force is exerted on the retention device 138 by the arm 107 of the DIN rail 101 .
- FIGS. 4A and 4B shown are front views of the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 .
- FIG. 4A illustrates the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 in a closed configuration
- FIG. 4B illustrates the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 in an open configuration.
- the DIN rail latch 100 includes a retention device 138 on each of the first and second latch modules 102 , 104 .
- Such a configuration of the retention devices 138 where at least one retention device 138 is positioned on the first latch module 102 (e.g., the first retention device 138 a ) and at least one retention device 138 positioned on the second latch module 104 (e.g., the second retention device 138 b ) is sometimes referred to herein as a “split” configuration.
- FIGS. 4A and 4B are front views of an adjustable DIN rail latch 500 , according to an example embodiment, having a different configuration of retention devices.
- FIG. 5A illustrates the adjustable DIN rail latch 500 in a closed configuration
- FIG. 5B illustrates the adjustable DIN rail latch 500 in an open configuration
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 500 includes first and second latch modules 502 , 504 .
- the adjustable DIN rail latch 500 may be the same as the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 , except the DIN rail latch 500 includes retention devices only on one of its two latch modules.
- the DIN rail latch 500 includes retention devices 538 a , 538 b , both of which are positioned on the first latch module 502 .
- FIG. 6 shown is a flowchart of a method 600 , according to an example embodiment.
- the method 600 may be performed with any of the adjustable mounting rail latches described herein.
- a first equipment unit is attached to an adjustable mounting rail latch, wherein the adjustable mounting rail latch comprises first and second latch modules mechanically coupled to one another.
- the adjustable mounting rail latch is mechanically attached to a mounting rail, wherein the adjustable mounting rail latch has a closed configuration in which the first and second latch modules are positioned adjacent to one another.
- the adjustable mounting rail is adjusted from the closed configuration to an open configuration.
- the adjustable mounting rail latch may comprise an integrated slide-rail system, and adjusting the adjustable mounting rail from the closed configuration to the open configuration may comprise, for example, separating the second latch module from the first latch module via the slide-rail system.
- the adjustable mounting rail latch is attached to a second equipment unit such that both the first equipment unit and the second equipment unit are coupled to the mounting rail via the adjustable mounting rail latch.
- the adjustable mounting rail latch may comprise at least one selectively engageable retention device, and the method may further comprise exerting a force on the mounting rail with the selectively engageable retention device to prevent movement of the first and second latch modules along the mounting rail.
- the at least one selectively engageable retention device may comprise a first selectively engageable retention device positioned on the first latch module and a second selectively engageable retention device positioned on the second latch module.
- an adjustable mounting rail latch comprising: first and second latch modules each comprising a first side and a second side, wherein each of the first sides is configured to be attached to at least one equipment unit and each of the second sides includes an attachment system configured to mechanically couple to a mounting rail; a slide-rail system integrated with the first and second latch modules, wherein the slide-rail system is configured to slideably couple the first latch module with the second latch module; and at least one selectively engageable retention device configured to exert a force on the mounting rail to prevent movement of the first and second latch modules along the mounting rail.
- the at least one selectively engageable retention device comprises one or more spring members.
- the one or more spring members are positioned on the first side of the first latch module.
- the one or more spring members are positioned on the first side of the second latch module.
- a first spring member is positioned on the first side of the first latch module and a second spring member is positioned on the first side of the second latch module.
- first and second latch modules each comprise at least one attachment aperture for attachment to the at least one equipment unit.
- the slide-rail system includes a plurality of slide members and a plurality of rails.
- the plurality of slide members are configured to slideably move along the plurality of rails.
- the at least one selectively engageable retention device is configured to be selectively engaged by an arm of the mounting rail.
- the attachment system includes respective latch ends configured to receive at least a portion of a lip of the mounting rail.
- a method comprises: attaching a first equipment unit to an adjustable mounting rail latch, wherein the adjustable mounting rail latch comprises first and second latch modules mechanically coupled to one another; mechanically attaching the adjustable mounting rail latch to a mounting rail, wherein the adjustable mounting rail latch has a closed configuration in which the first and second latch modules are positioned adjacent to one another; adjusting the adjustable mounting rail latch from the closed configuration to an open configuration; and attaching the adjustable mounting rail latch to a second equipment unit such that both the first equipment unit and the second equipment unit are coupled to the mounting rail via the adjustable mounting rail latch.
- an adjustable mounting rail latch comprises: first and second latch modules each comprising a first side and a second side, wherein each of the first sides is configured to be attached to at least one equipment unit and each of the second sides includes an attachment system configured to mechanically couple to a mounting rail; and a slide-rail system integrated with the first and second latch modules, wherein the slide-rail system comprises at least one slide member and at least one rail, wherein the at least one rail is configured to slideably accommodate the at least one slide member in such a way that the first and second latch modules are slideably coupled to one another.
Abstract
Description
- The present disclosure relates generally to adjustable latches for use with mounting rails.
- It is common for various electronic systems, such as equipment units, to be mounted onto equipment racks via mounting rails (DIN rails) and latches/brackets. In general, the term “DIN” originates from the original specifications published by Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN) in Germany, which have since been adopted as European (EN) and international (IEC) standards. In typical arrangements, a DIN mounting latch/bracket is used to mechanically couple an electronic system to a DIN rail.
-
FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an adjustable mounting rail latch, according to an example embodiment, shown in a closed configuration and mechanically coupled to a mounting rail and to a first equipment unit. -
FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the adjustable mounting rail latch ofFIG. 1A shown in an open configuration and mechanically coupled to the mounting rail and to the first equipment unit. -
FIG. 2A is a rear perspective view of the adjustable mounting rail latch ofFIG. 1A shown in a closed configuration and separate from the mounting rail and the first equipment unit. -
FIG. 2B is a sectional view of the adjustable mounting rail latch ofFIG. 1A shown separate from the mounting rail and the first equipment unit. -
FIG. 2C is another rear perspective view of a section of the adjustable mounting rail latch ofFIG. 1A shown separate from the mounting rail and the first equipment unit. -
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the adjustable mounting rail latch ofFIG. 1A shown in a closed configuration and mechanically coupled to the mounting rail, but separate from the first equipment unit. -
FIG. 3B is a side view of the adjustable mounting rail latch ofFIG. 1A shown mechanically coupled to the mounting rail, but separate from the first equipment unit. -
FIG. 4A is a front view of the adjustable mounting rail latch ofFIG. 1A , shown in a closed configuration and separate from the mounting rail and the first equipment unit. -
FIG. 4B is a front view of the adjustable mounting rail latch ofFIG. 1A , shown in an open configuration and separate from the mounting rail and the first equipment unit. -
FIG. 5A is a front view of another adjustable mounting rail latch, according to an example embodiment, shown in a closed configuration. -
FIG. 5B is a front view of the adjustable mounting rail latch ofFIG. 5A , shown in an open configuration. -
FIG. 6 is a flow chart of a method, according to an example embodiment. - Presented herein are adjustable mounting (DIN) rail latches. An adjustable mounting rail latch comprises first and second latch modules that each have a first side and a second side. The first sides are configured to be attached to at least one equipment unit and each of the second sides includes an attachment system configured to mechanically couple to a mounting rail. A slide-rail system is integrated with each of the first and second latch modules that is configured to slideably couple the first latch module with the second latch module. Additionally, the adjustable mounting rail latch comprises at least one selectively engageable retention device configured to exert a force on the mounting rail to prevent movement of the first and second latch modules along the mounting rail.
- Today, various customizable options are available for installation of electronic systems, such as network equipment units or other types of equipment units. For example, a first equipment unit (e.g., a base unit) that provides one or more features may be initially deployed by a user. At a later time, one or more additional equipment units (e.g., expansion units) may be deployed with the base unit in order to provide additional and/or supplementary features. In certain arrangements, users may have the flexibility to select different expansion units for use with the base unit (e.g., for a particular use/application). However, as a result of this flexibility, the form factor of the equipment may change. For example, the form factor (e.g., width and weight) of the deployed equipment may increase in different manners for different types of expansion units.
- Electronic systems, such as equipment units, are often attached to equipment racks, for example, inside a cabinet via mounting rails, generally referred to herein as DIN rails, for example, and mounting (DIN) rail latches/brackets. Conventional mounting rail latches used to mount base units onto mounting rails may be inadequate, for example, in size and/or retention ability, for mounting both the base unit and any additional expansion units attached to the base unit. One solution to such a problem is to use multiple latches or a single, wider latch on the now wider product assembly. However, this solutions is inefficient as it takes considerable time to install/configure and the additional latches need to be ordered by the customer. It is also not cost affective for the mounting rail latch provider in terms of managing multiple latch accessory options to accommodate different customer configurations.
- As such, presented herein are adjustable (sliding) mounting (DIN) rail latches for use in attaching one or more equipment units to a mounting rail. More specifically, an adjustable mounting rail latch in accordance with examples presented herein has a first (closed) configuration that enables the mounting rail latch to be used for attachment of a first equipment unit (e.g., a base unit) to a mounting rail. If the customer adds one or more additional equipment units (e.g., expansion units) in the future, the same mounting rail latch can be subsequently adjusted to a second (open) configuration that enables the mounting rail latch to also be used for attachment of the expansion unit(s) to the mounting rail.
- The adjustable/sliding mounting rail latch in accordance with examples presented herein is comprised of first and second latch modules coupled to one another via an integrated slide-rail system. The slide-rail system enables the first and second latch modules to be positioned adjacent one another in the first (closed) configuration for use in mounting the base unit to a mounting rail. When an expansion unit is added to the configuration, growing the form factor of the product, the slide-rail system enables the first and second latch modules to be separated from one another to form the second (open) configuration. In other words, the integrated slide-rail system allows the adjustable mounting rail latch to become wider so as to also accommodate the expansion unit. This slide-rail system is configured to have different widths in the open configuration.
- The adjustable mounting rail latches presented herein enable the end users to quickly and easily adjust the dimensions of the latch to conform to a product's changing form factor (e.g., as equipment units are added, removed, replaced, etc.). That is, instead of un-installing and re-installing new latch designs each time the product form factor changes, at least a part of the adjustable mounting rail latch may remain attached and may be adjusted depending on the configuration change. As such, use of the adjustable mounting rail latch simplifies customer product upgrades.
- For ease of description, adjustable (sliding) mounting rail latches in accordance with embodiments presented herein are described with reference to DIN rails and DIN rail latches. However, this is not intended to be limiting. It is to be understood that adjustable mounting rail latches in accordance with embodiments presented herein may be configured for use with any suitable type(s) of mounting rail(s).
-
FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of an adjustableDIN rail latch 100 in accordance with embodiments presented herein. The adjustableDIN rail latch 100 may be formed from aluminum, a rigid polymer, and/or any other suitable materials. InFIG. 1A , the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 is shown in a closed configuration, where the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 is mechanically coupled/attached to both aDIN rail 101 and to afirst equipment unit 125. - As shown, the adjustable
DIN rail latch 100 includes afirst latch module 102 and asecond latch module 104. As described further below, thefirst latch module 102 includes a first side 114 (e.g., a back side) and a second side 116 (e.g., a front side). Thesecond latch module 104 includes a first side 118 (e.g., a back side) and a second side 120 (e.g., a front side). Each of thefirst sides second sides FIG. 1A , each of thefirst sides first equipment unit 125 and each of thesecond sides DIN rail 101. Thefirst latch module 102 and asecond latch module 104 are attached to one another via an integrated slide-rail system (not shown inFIG. 1A ). - As noted,
FIG. 1A illustrates the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 in a closed configuration. When the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 is in a closed configuration, thefirst latch module 102 and thesecond latch module 104 are positioned immediately adjacent one another (i.e., the adjustable DIN rail latch is configured at its minimum form factor width). In this arrangement, the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 is attached to thefirst equipment unit 125. - Referring next to
FIG. 1B , shown is a perspective view of the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 in an open configuration. In an open configuration, the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 is mechanically coupled to theDIN rail 101, thefirst equipment unit 125, and asecond equipment unit 127, according to an example embodiment. More specifically, inFIG. 1B , thefirst latch module 102 and thesecond latch module 104 are shown separated from one another (e.g., non-adjacent to one another), where one or both of thelatch modules rail system 106. As such, inFIG. 1B , the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 has a different form factor width than in the closed configuration ofFIG. 1A . Due to this different form factor width, the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 is able to be attached to both thefirst equipment unit 125 and thesecond equipment unit 127. - As shown, the
first latch module 102 has afirst end 108 and asecond end 109, while thesecond latch module 104 has afirst end 110 and asecond end 111. In the closed configuration ofFIG. 1A , second ends 109 and 111 of the first andsecond latch modules second latch modules DIN rail latch 100 is defined as the distance between ends 108, 110 of the adjustableDIN rail latch 100. - As described further below, the
first latch module 102 and thesecond latch module 104 are each configured to be mechanically coupled to theDIN rail 101. Additionally, while in the closed configuration, the adjustable DIN rail latch 100 (FIG. 1A ) is used to attach thefirst equipment unit 125 to theDIN rail 101. At a subsequent point in time, thesecond equipment unit 127 may be provided to for example, upgrade thefirst equipment unit 125, provide supplemental functionality, etc. To install thesecond equipment unit 127, the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 is adjusted to the open configuration (e.g., thefirst latch module 102 and thesecond latch module 104 are separated from one another). The adjustableDIN rail latch 100 may be adjusted from the first configuration to the second configuration based on the wider form factor of the first andsecond equipment units first equipment unit 125. The adjustableDIN rail latch 100 may be adjusted between/to different form factor widths based on the particular equipment unit(s) being attached (e.g., added or removed) to the adjustableDIN rail latch 100. - Once opened, the adjustable
DIN rail latch 100 remains attached to thefirst equipment unit 125, and can then be attached to thesecond equipment unit 127. The first andsecond equipment units - Referring next to
FIG. 2A , shown is a rear perspective view of the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 in a closed configuration.FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the adjustableDIN rail latch 100, taken along line “2-2,” whileFIG. 2C is another rear perspective view of a section of the adjustableDIN rail latch 100. For ease of description,FIGS. 2A-2C will be described together. Additionally, inFIGS. 2A-2C , the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 is shown separate from theDIN rail 101 and separate from the first andsecond equipment units - As shown in
FIGS. 2A-2C , the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 includes a slide-rail system 106 integrated with the first andsecond latch modules rail system 106 is configured to slideably couple thefirst latch module 102 with thesecond latch module 104. In other words, the slide-rail system 106 enables the first andsecond latch modules FIG. 2A ). This relative movement of the first andsecond latch modules DIN rail latch 100 to change (e.g., the distance between ends 108, 110 decreases or increases). - In the specific example shown in
FIGS. 2A-2C , the slide-rail system 106 includes a plurality of slide members 122 and a plurality of rails 124. The plurality of rails 124 are configured to slideably accommodate the plurality of slide members 122 in such a way that the first andsecond latch modules second latch modules FIG. 2A , to an open position, theslide members rails slide member 122 b may be configured to move along its corresponding rail (not shown).FIG. 2B illustrates that the plurality of slide members 122 may be received by the plurality of rails 124. - As shown in
FIGS. 2A-2C , the slide members 122 and rails 124 may form a dovetail-type connection. This, however, is only exemplary and any suitable connection type may be utilized. -
FIGS. 2A and 2C also illustrate that the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 includes a plurality of attachment apertures 112. A user may use these attachment apertures 112 to attach one or more equipment units to the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 via insertion of fasteners through the plurality of attachment apertures 112. The fasteners may include, for example, screws, bolts, and/or any suitable fastening mechanisms. - The plurality of attachment apertures 112 may correspond to one or more attachment apertures of one or more equipment units (e.g., the first and
second equipment units 125, 127). When the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 is in a closed configuration, for example, the plurality of attachment apertures 112, may be configured to be aligned with respective attachment apertures of thefirst equipment unit 125. When the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 is in an open configuration, for example, theattachment apertures first equipment unit 125 and theattachment aperture 112 a may be configured to be aligned with an attachment aperture of thesecond equipment unit 127. It is to be understood that not all of the attachment apertures may be used to facilitate attachment of one or more equipment units to theDIN rail latch 100. For example, to attach theDIN rail latch 100 in the closed configuration to theequipment unit 125, fasteners may be disposed through theattachment apertures attachment aperture 112 b. Whether some or all of the attachment apertures are used to facilitate attachment of one or more equipment units may depend on, for example, the size and/or weight of the one or more equipment units, the type(s) of fastener(s), the position of the attachment apertures of theDIN rail latch 100 with respect to the attachment apertures of the one or more equipment units, conditions of the environment theDIN rail latch 100 and the equipment units are to be deployed, and/or any other suitable considerations. - It is to be appreciated that, although the adjustable
DIN rail latch 100 is shown as including three attachment apertures 112, this is for exemplary purposes only and not intended to be limiting. Therefore, adjustable DIN rail latches in accordance with embodiments presented herein may include any suitable number of attachment apertures. - Referring next to
FIG. 3A , shown is a perspective view of the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 ofFIG. 1A shown in a closed configuration. InFIG. 3A , the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 is shown mechanically coupled to theDIN rail 101, but separate from thefirst equipment unit 125.FIG. 3B is a side view of the adjustableDIN rail latch 100. For ease of description,FIGS. 3A and 3B will be described together. - As noted above, the
first latch module 102 includes thesecond side 116, and thesecond latch module 104 may include thesecond side 120. Thesecond side 116 offirst latch module 102 includes anattachment system 126, while thesecond side 120 ofsecond latch module 104 includes anattachment system 128. Each of theattachment systems DIN rail 101. In particular, theattachment system 126 includes a first latch end 130 (e.g., a bottom latch end) and a second latch end 132 (e.g., a top latch end). Theattachment system 128 includes a first latch end 134 (e.g., a bottom latch end) and a second latch end 136 (e.g., a top latch end). Each of the first latch ends 130, 134 may be configured to receive at least a portion of a first lip 103 (e.g., a bottom lip) of theDIN rail 101. Each of the second latch ends 132, 136 may be configured to receive at least a portion of a second lip 105 (e.g., a top lip) of theDIN rail 101. In this way, the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 can be attached to the DIN rail 101 (i.e., a second side of each of the latch modules is mechanically coupled to the DIN rail). - The adjustable
DIN rail latch 100 further includes at least oneretention device 138 configured to be selectively engaged to create a force on theDIN rail 101 to prevent unintended movement of the first andsecond latch modules retention device 138 may comprise, for example, one ormore spring members 140. In certain examples, one ormore retention devices 138 may be positioned on each of thefirst latch module 102 and/or thesecond latch module 104. For example, the one or more retention devices 138 (e.g., one or more spring members 140) may be mechanically coupled (e.g., pinned) to the first and/orsecond latch modules second latch modules retention device 138 to move/rotate at least partially with respect to/around the pin. It is to be appreciated that the at least oneretention device 138 being pinned to the first and/orsecond latch modules retention device 138 may be mechanically coupled to the first and/orsecond latch modules retention device 138 is pinned to the first orsecond latch module - The
DIN rail 101 comprises abase member 113, afirst lip 103, and asecond lip 105. Thelips base member 113 viaarms 107. To secure the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 to theDIN rail 101, the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 may be positioned such that a force is exerted on theretention device 138 by thearm 107 of theDIN rail 101. - Referring next to
FIGS. 4A and 4B , shown are front views of the adjustableDIN rail latch 100. In particular,FIG. 4A illustrates the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 in a closed configuration, whileFIG. 4B illustrates the adjustableDIN rail latch 100 in an open configuration. As noted above, theDIN rail latch 100 includes aretention device 138 on each of the first andsecond latch modules retention devices 138, where at least oneretention device 138 is positioned on the first latch module 102 (e.g., thefirst retention device 138 a) and at least oneretention device 138 positioned on the second latch module 104 (e.g., thesecond retention device 138 b) is sometimes referred to herein as a “split” configuration. - It is to be appreciated that the split configuration for the retention devices, as shown in
FIGS. 4A and 4B , is illustrative and that retention devices in accordance with embodiments presented herein may have different arrangements. For example,FIGS. 5A and 5B are front views of an adjustableDIN rail latch 500, according to an example embodiment, having a different configuration of retention devices. -
FIG. 5A illustrates the adjustableDIN rail latch 500 in a closed configuration, whileFIG. 5B illustrates the adjustableDIN rail latch 500 in an open configuration. The adjustableDIN rail latch 500 includes first andsecond latch modules DIN rail latch 500 may be the same as the adjustableDIN rail latch 100, except theDIN rail latch 500 includes retention devices only on one of its two latch modules. In particular, theDIN rail latch 500 includesretention devices first latch module 502. - Referring next to
FIG. 6 , shown is a flowchart of amethod 600, according to an example embodiment. Themethod 600 may be performed with any of the adjustable mounting rail latches described herein. At 602, a first equipment unit is attached to an adjustable mounting rail latch, wherein the adjustable mounting rail latch comprises first and second latch modules mechanically coupled to one another. - At 604, the adjustable mounting rail latch is mechanically attached to a mounting rail, wherein the adjustable mounting rail latch has a closed configuration in which the first and second latch modules are positioned adjacent to one another.
- At 606, the adjustable mounting rail is adjusted from the closed configuration to an open configuration. The adjustable mounting rail latch may comprise an integrated slide-rail system, and adjusting the adjustable mounting rail from the closed configuration to the open configuration may comprise, for example, separating the second latch module from the first latch module via the slide-rail system.
- At 608, the adjustable mounting rail latch is attached to a second equipment unit such that both the first equipment unit and the second equipment unit are coupled to the mounting rail via the adjustable mounting rail latch.
- The adjustable mounting rail latch may comprise at least one selectively engageable retention device, and the method may further comprise exerting a force on the mounting rail with the selectively engageable retention device to prevent movement of the first and second latch modules along the mounting rail. The at least one selectively engageable retention device may comprise a first selectively engageable retention device positioned on the first latch module and a second selectively engageable retention device positioned on the second latch module.
- In one aspect, an adjustable mounting rail latch is provided comprising: first and second latch modules each comprising a first side and a second side, wherein each of the first sides is configured to be attached to at least one equipment unit and each of the second sides includes an attachment system configured to mechanically couple to a mounting rail; a slide-rail system integrated with the first and second latch modules, wherein the slide-rail system is configured to slideably couple the first latch module with the second latch module; and at least one selectively engageable retention device configured to exert a force on the mounting rail to prevent movement of the first and second latch modules along the mounting rail.
- In certain aspects, the at least one selectively engageable retention device comprises one or more spring members. In certain aspects, the one or more spring members are positioned on the first side of the first latch module. In certain aspects, the one or more spring members are positioned on the first side of the second latch module. In certain aspects, a first spring member is positioned on the first side of the first latch module and a second spring member is positioned on the first side of the second latch module.
- In certain aspects, the first and second latch modules each comprise at least one attachment aperture for attachment to the at least one equipment unit.
- In certain aspects, the slide-rail system includes a plurality of slide members and a plurality of rails. The plurality of slide members are configured to slideably move along the plurality of rails.
- In certain aspects, the at least one selectively engageable retention device is configured to be selectively engaged by an arm of the mounting rail.
- In certain aspects, the attachment system includes respective latch ends configured to receive at least a portion of a lip of the mounting rail.
- In another aspect, a method is provided. The method comprises: attaching a first equipment unit to an adjustable mounting rail latch, wherein the adjustable mounting rail latch comprises first and second latch modules mechanically coupled to one another; mechanically attaching the adjustable mounting rail latch to a mounting rail, wherein the adjustable mounting rail latch has a closed configuration in which the first and second latch modules are positioned adjacent to one another; adjusting the adjustable mounting rail latch from the closed configuration to an open configuration; and attaching the adjustable mounting rail latch to a second equipment unit such that both the first equipment unit and the second equipment unit are coupled to the mounting rail via the adjustable mounting rail latch.
- In yet another aspect, an adjustable mounting rail latch is provided. The adjustable mounting rail latch comprises: first and second latch modules each comprising a first side and a second side, wherein each of the first sides is configured to be attached to at least one equipment unit and each of the second sides includes an attachment system configured to mechanically couple to a mounting rail; and a slide-rail system integrated with the first and second latch modules, wherein the slide-rail system comprises at least one slide member and at least one rail, wherein the at least one rail is configured to slideably accommodate the at least one slide member in such a way that the first and second latch modules are slideably coupled to one another.
- The above description is intended by way of example only. Although the techniques are illustrated and described herein as embodied in one or more specific examples, it is nevertheless not intended to be limited to the details shown, since various modifications and structural changes may be made within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims.
Claims (21)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US16/264,945 US10716235B1 (en) | 2019-02-01 | 2019-02-01 | Adjustable mounting rail latches |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US16/264,945 US10716235B1 (en) | 2019-02-01 | 2019-02-01 | Adjustable mounting rail latches |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US10716235B1 US10716235B1 (en) | 2020-07-14 |
US20200253081A1 true US20200253081A1 (en) | 2020-08-06 |
Family
ID=71519990
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US16/264,945 Active US10716235B1 (en) | 2019-02-01 | 2019-02-01 | Adjustable mounting rail latches |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US10716235B1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN111867307B (en) * | 2020-07-24 | 2022-12-16 | 菲尼克斯亚太电气(南京)有限公司 | Fixing buckle |
US11765854B2 (en) * | 2020-11-18 | 2023-09-19 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Universal equipment rack for telecommunications cabinets |
USD963237S1 (en) * | 2021-02-01 | 2022-09-06 | Vode Lighting, LLC | Z-linear luminaire mounting rail |
CN115119457A (en) * | 2021-03-19 | 2022-09-27 | 四零四科技股份有限公司 | Mounting assembly for rail members and related rail-mounted mounting system |
Citations (36)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5480310A (en) * | 1993-10-28 | 1996-01-02 | Raychem Corporation | Connector ground clip |
US5716241A (en) * | 1994-01-18 | 1998-02-10 | Wago Verwaltungsgesellschaft Mbh | I/O device for a data bus |
US5775955A (en) * | 1996-09-17 | 1998-07-07 | Graube; Maris | Modular fieldbus terminal block |
US5803772A (en) * | 1995-09-29 | 1998-09-08 | Krone Aktiengesellschaft | Termination device for telecommunication and data transmission applications |
US5904592A (en) * | 1998-09-29 | 1999-05-18 | Allen-Bradley Company, Llc | Dual mode din rail latch with tactile feedback |
US5907476A (en) * | 1997-08-29 | 1999-05-25 | Allen-Bradley Company, Llc | Self-locking rail securement device |
US6038130A (en) * | 1995-09-13 | 2000-03-14 | The Whitaker Corporation | Electrical interconnection system for stackable electronic modules |
US6172875B1 (en) * | 1998-11-17 | 2001-01-09 | Rockwell Technologies, Llc | Programmable logic controller module assembly and locking system |
US6431909B1 (en) * | 2000-09-28 | 2002-08-13 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | DIN rail attachment method and apparatus |
US6471552B2 (en) * | 2000-01-04 | 2002-10-29 | Entrelec S.A. | Spring for securing a terminal block or the like to a rail |
US6475036B2 (en) * | 2000-07-07 | 2002-11-05 | Smc Kabushiki Kaisha | Signal input/output apparatus |
US6543957B1 (en) * | 2000-09-14 | 2003-04-08 | Puls Elecktronische Stromversorgungen Gmbh | Holder and housing comprising at least one holder |
US6935903B2 (en) * | 2001-01-26 | 2005-08-30 | Hirschmann Electronics Gmbh & Co. | Mounting rail adapter |
US7073971B2 (en) * | 2004-02-10 | 2006-07-11 | Egs Electrical Group, Llc | Apparatus and methods for detachably mounting devices to rails |
US7374453B1 (en) * | 2006-12-28 | 2008-05-20 | General Electric Company | Enclosure-to-rail retaining system and method |
US7416421B2 (en) * | 2006-07-31 | 2008-08-26 | Automation Components, Inc. | Enclosure with integral snap acting mounting feet |
US7686627B2 (en) * | 2008-01-04 | 2010-03-30 | Switchlab Inc. | Rail-type grounding terminal structure having a spring latch |
US7686626B2 (en) * | 2008-01-04 | 2010-03-30 | Switchlab Inc. | Rail-type grounding terminal having a two piece spring latch structure |
US7695313B2 (en) * | 2008-01-22 | 2010-04-13 | Eaton Corporation | Electrical enclosure, and panel assembly and mounting assembly therefor |
US7758368B2 (en) * | 2007-05-29 | 2010-07-20 | Honeywell International Inc. | DIN rail mount |
US7938690B2 (en) * | 2006-10-13 | 2011-05-10 | Phoenix Contact Gmbh & Co. Kg | Mounting plate with fixing means for an electrical device |
US7980891B2 (en) * | 2009-05-05 | 2011-07-19 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Integrated DIN rail attachment feature for optimized constraint |
US8062061B2 (en) * | 2006-11-03 | 2011-11-22 | Delta Electronics (Thailand) Public Co., Ltd | Mechanism of fastening detachable electronic device to DIN rail |
US8066239B2 (en) * | 2009-06-15 | 2011-11-29 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Integrated DIN rail attachment feature for superior attachment |
US9032593B2 (en) * | 2009-10-05 | 2015-05-19 | RayoMar Enterprise, Inc. | Fastening or mounting apparatus |
US9088138B2 (en) * | 2012-02-16 | 2015-07-21 | Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. | Mounting device for securing electronic component |
US9263861B2 (en) * | 2010-08-20 | 2016-02-16 | Weidmueller Interface Gmbh & Co. Kg | Mounting rail and module latching system |
US9313907B2 (en) * | 2012-05-16 | 2016-04-12 | Mecomo Ag | Modular housing system |
US9353777B2 (en) * | 2013-07-09 | 2016-05-31 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Method and apparatus to attach device to DIN rail |
US9444231B2 (en) * | 2014-07-16 | 2016-09-13 | Lite-On Electronics (Guangzhou) Limited | Mounting mechanism |
US9485879B2 (en) * | 2015-03-06 | 2016-11-01 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Single action DIN rail latch |
US9699930B2 (en) * | 2015-01-09 | 2017-07-04 | Omron Corporation | Electric device system |
US9865945B2 (en) * | 2015-10-28 | 2018-01-09 | Denso Wave Incorporated | Attachment structure for housing |
US9879705B2 (en) * | 2014-03-25 | 2018-01-30 | Delta Cycle Corporation | Electronic device caddy |
US9936598B2 (en) * | 2012-11-08 | 2018-04-03 | Pilz Gmbh & Co. Kg | Modular device for open-loop control or closed-loop control of a technical installation |
US10306796B2 (en) * | 2017-11-01 | 2019-05-28 | Dell Products L.P. | Information handling system rail clip automatic clamping |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9125317B2 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2015-09-01 | Cisco Technology, Inc. | DIN rail mount bracket |
US9303811B1 (en) | 2014-02-11 | 2016-04-05 | Cisco Technology, Inc. | Configurable mounting bracket for mounting rail installations |
-
2019
- 2019-02-01 US US16/264,945 patent/US10716235B1/en active Active
Patent Citations (36)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5480310A (en) * | 1993-10-28 | 1996-01-02 | Raychem Corporation | Connector ground clip |
US5716241A (en) * | 1994-01-18 | 1998-02-10 | Wago Verwaltungsgesellschaft Mbh | I/O device for a data bus |
US6038130A (en) * | 1995-09-13 | 2000-03-14 | The Whitaker Corporation | Electrical interconnection system for stackable electronic modules |
US5803772A (en) * | 1995-09-29 | 1998-09-08 | Krone Aktiengesellschaft | Termination device for telecommunication and data transmission applications |
US5775955A (en) * | 1996-09-17 | 1998-07-07 | Graube; Maris | Modular fieldbus terminal block |
US5907476A (en) * | 1997-08-29 | 1999-05-25 | Allen-Bradley Company, Llc | Self-locking rail securement device |
US5904592A (en) * | 1998-09-29 | 1999-05-18 | Allen-Bradley Company, Llc | Dual mode din rail latch with tactile feedback |
US6172875B1 (en) * | 1998-11-17 | 2001-01-09 | Rockwell Technologies, Llc | Programmable logic controller module assembly and locking system |
US6471552B2 (en) * | 2000-01-04 | 2002-10-29 | Entrelec S.A. | Spring for securing a terminal block or the like to a rail |
US6475036B2 (en) * | 2000-07-07 | 2002-11-05 | Smc Kabushiki Kaisha | Signal input/output apparatus |
US6543957B1 (en) * | 2000-09-14 | 2003-04-08 | Puls Elecktronische Stromversorgungen Gmbh | Holder and housing comprising at least one holder |
US6431909B1 (en) * | 2000-09-28 | 2002-08-13 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | DIN rail attachment method and apparatus |
US6935903B2 (en) * | 2001-01-26 | 2005-08-30 | Hirschmann Electronics Gmbh & Co. | Mounting rail adapter |
US7073971B2 (en) * | 2004-02-10 | 2006-07-11 | Egs Electrical Group, Llc | Apparatus and methods for detachably mounting devices to rails |
US7416421B2 (en) * | 2006-07-31 | 2008-08-26 | Automation Components, Inc. | Enclosure with integral snap acting mounting feet |
US7938690B2 (en) * | 2006-10-13 | 2011-05-10 | Phoenix Contact Gmbh & Co. Kg | Mounting plate with fixing means for an electrical device |
US8062061B2 (en) * | 2006-11-03 | 2011-11-22 | Delta Electronics (Thailand) Public Co., Ltd | Mechanism of fastening detachable electronic device to DIN rail |
US7374453B1 (en) * | 2006-12-28 | 2008-05-20 | General Electric Company | Enclosure-to-rail retaining system and method |
US7758368B2 (en) * | 2007-05-29 | 2010-07-20 | Honeywell International Inc. | DIN rail mount |
US7686627B2 (en) * | 2008-01-04 | 2010-03-30 | Switchlab Inc. | Rail-type grounding terminal structure having a spring latch |
US7686626B2 (en) * | 2008-01-04 | 2010-03-30 | Switchlab Inc. | Rail-type grounding terminal having a two piece spring latch structure |
US7695313B2 (en) * | 2008-01-22 | 2010-04-13 | Eaton Corporation | Electrical enclosure, and panel assembly and mounting assembly therefor |
US7980891B2 (en) * | 2009-05-05 | 2011-07-19 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Integrated DIN rail attachment feature for optimized constraint |
US8066239B2 (en) * | 2009-06-15 | 2011-11-29 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Integrated DIN rail attachment feature for superior attachment |
US9032593B2 (en) * | 2009-10-05 | 2015-05-19 | RayoMar Enterprise, Inc. | Fastening or mounting apparatus |
US9263861B2 (en) * | 2010-08-20 | 2016-02-16 | Weidmueller Interface Gmbh & Co. Kg | Mounting rail and module latching system |
US9088138B2 (en) * | 2012-02-16 | 2015-07-21 | Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. | Mounting device for securing electronic component |
US9313907B2 (en) * | 2012-05-16 | 2016-04-12 | Mecomo Ag | Modular housing system |
US9936598B2 (en) * | 2012-11-08 | 2018-04-03 | Pilz Gmbh & Co. Kg | Modular device for open-loop control or closed-loop control of a technical installation |
US9353777B2 (en) * | 2013-07-09 | 2016-05-31 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Method and apparatus to attach device to DIN rail |
US9879705B2 (en) * | 2014-03-25 | 2018-01-30 | Delta Cycle Corporation | Electronic device caddy |
US9444231B2 (en) * | 2014-07-16 | 2016-09-13 | Lite-On Electronics (Guangzhou) Limited | Mounting mechanism |
US9699930B2 (en) * | 2015-01-09 | 2017-07-04 | Omron Corporation | Electric device system |
US9485879B2 (en) * | 2015-03-06 | 2016-11-01 | Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc. | Single action DIN rail latch |
US9865945B2 (en) * | 2015-10-28 | 2018-01-09 | Denso Wave Incorporated | Attachment structure for housing |
US10306796B2 (en) * | 2017-11-01 | 2019-05-28 | Dell Products L.P. | Information handling system rail clip automatic clamping |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US10716235B1 (en) | 2020-07-14 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US10716235B1 (en) | Adjustable mounting rail latches | |
US8040693B2 (en) | Universal expandable patch panel bracket | |
EP3278395B1 (en) | An apparatus with multiple pole mounting configurations | |
EP3262908B1 (en) | Front rack cable management system and apparatus | |
US6648149B2 (en) | Rack latch assembly | |
US6988626B2 (en) | Computer component rack mounting arrangement | |
US9635937B2 (en) | Rack mounting kit for telecommunications equipment and rack cross brace | |
US9370119B2 (en) | Sliding rack-mountable rails for rack-mountable components | |
US5941621A (en) | Cabinet slide mounting bracket | |
EP2393176B1 (en) | Cable holder as well as kit and cable management system comprising the same | |
US6373707B1 (en) | Module mounting slide clamp mechanism | |
US20110290746A1 (en) | Slide assembly | |
US20030155471A1 (en) | System and means for the secure mounting of a device bracket | |
US9949400B2 (en) | Front rack cable management system and apparatus | |
US7301756B2 (en) | System for mounting modules in a rack mounted chassis | |
CA2865076A1 (en) | Systems and methods for improved modular laboratory furniture | |
WO2008022058A2 (en) | Electronic equipment cabinet expansion kit with offset brackets | |
US9303811B1 (en) | Configurable mounting bracket for mounting rail installations | |
US6412733B1 (en) | Support brackets for cable raceway | |
WO2011002634A2 (en) | Adjustable vertical exhaust duct | |
US20170048992A1 (en) | Apparatus and system for multifunction camming support shelf | |
WO2008003063A3 (en) | Adjustable patch panel and methods of using same | |
US8289697B2 (en) | Equipment racks utilizing rail engaging retaining brackets that limit chassis movement | |
US7255234B2 (en) | Low profile support system for device rack-mounting | |
US11382229B2 (en) | Cable manager with fixed and removable door |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CISCO TECHNOLOGY, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:FARNSWORTH, ARTHUR K.;WAHL, JORDON;REEL/FRAME:048217/0563 Effective date: 20190122 |
|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: ENTITY STATUS SET TO UNDISCOUNTED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: BIG.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY |
|
STCF | Information on status: patent grant |
Free format text: PATENTED CASE |
|
MAFP | Maintenance fee payment |
Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 4TH YEAR, LARGE ENTITY (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M1551); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY Year of fee payment: 4 |