Abstract:
An electronics insert arrangement for a measuring device includes an electronics insert and an electronics module. The electronics insert includes a first attachment device and a first interface. The electronics module includes a second attachment device and a second interface. For coupling the electronics module to the electronics insert, the first attachment device and the second attachment device can be brought to engage each other such that a space between the first interface and the second interface remains essentially constant when the electronics insert moves. The electronics insert is equipped to carry out processes of a first functionality, and the electronics module is equipped to carry out processes of a second functionality.

Description:
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]     This application claims the benefit of the filing date of German Patent Application  
         [0002]     Serial No. 005 062 420.0 filed Dec. 27, 2005 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/754,527 filed Dec. 27, 2005, the disclosure of which applications is hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
       [0003]     The present invention relates to a measuring device housing. In particular the present invention relates to an electronics insert arrangement for a measuring device housing, to an electronics insert for a measuring device housing, to an electronics module for a measuring device housing, and to a measuring device comprising an electronics insert arrangement.  
       TECHNICAL BACKGROUND  
       [0004]     Series production of measuring devices, in particular of fill level measuring devices and pressure measuring devices, may be facilitated in that as many parts and components as possible of the measuring devices are standardised. This may apply above all to the functions that are responsible for the actual measuring task. This arrangement can involve an electronic measuring circuit with corresponding programs.  
         [0005]     However, it may happen that upon special request by a customer additional functions may have to be provided for a standard measuring device. These individual adaptations are often necessary for only a few measuring devices. However, often, additional modules may have to be developed to carry out the additional functions.  
         [0006]     Since these additional modules also require additional installation space, these additional modules have hitherto been accommodated loosely, i.e. depending on available space, in whatever cavities there are in the housing of the measuring device between the main module and the housing wall. Often the main modules are accommodated in an electronics insert or an electronics can, firmly seated in the measuring device housing.  
         [0007]     However, in this arrangement, due to their non-fixed accommodation, the additional modules are accommodated, differently in each device, in a void between the electronics can and the housing wall of the measuring device. However, the additional modules may also be installed in an overhead installation of the measuring device. Apart from the lack of fixed-position installation of the additional module, this arrangement may also fail to provide any measures that provide protection against vibration or shaking. Consequently the position of the additional modules in the housing can change, so that the additional modules in the measuring device housing can move, depending on the mechanical loads acting on them. As a result of this the additional components or additional electronics may collide with other movable components that project into the housing space, and in some circumstances may even jam such components.  
         [0008]     Moreover, due to their lack of fixed-position accommodation, the additional components or additional electronics may be differently accommodated in the void between the electronics can and the measuring housing wall, which may make a uniform and standardisable design impossible.  
         [0009]     Apart from the lose and random accommodation in voids in the measuring device housing, additional components are nowadays often attached to movable lines with the use of cable ties, or they are non-detachably affixed using adhesive. However, other components can be changed as a result of this type of affixation.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0010]     According to exemplary embodiments of the present invention, an electronics insert arrangement for a measuring device, an electronics insert, an electronics module, and a measuring device with an electronics insert arrangement with the characteristics according to the independent claims are provided.  
         [0011]     According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an electronics insert arrangement for a measuring device housing with an electronics insert and an electronics module is provided. The electronics insert comprises a first attachment device and a first interface, while the electronics module comprises a second attachment device and a second interface. If the electronics module is connected to the electronics insert, the first attachment device and the second attachment device can be brought to engage each other such that a space, which the first interface maintains from the second interface in their installed states, remains essentially constant when the electronics insert moves. The electronics insert, in particular a module accommodated by it, is equipped to carry out processes of a first functionality, while the electronics module, in particular a module accommodated by it, is equipped to carry out processes of a second functionality.  
         [0012]     This may provide reliable attachment of an additional module in a measuring device.  
         [0013]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an electronics insert for a measuring device housing is provided, which electronics insert is equipped to carry out processes of a first functionality, and comprises a first attachment device. This first attachment device is designed such that the first attachment device can be coupled to a second attachment device of an electronics module. Furthermore, the electronics insert comprises a first interface, wherein the first interface in a coupled state of the electronics insert with the electronics module comprises a space from a second interface of the electronics module. This space between the first interface and the second interface remains essentially constant during movement of the electronics insert.  
         [0014]     Furthermore, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an electronics module for a measuring device housing is provided, wherein the electronics module is designed to carry out processes of a second functionality, and wherein the electronics module comprises a second attachment device. The second attachment device can be coupled to a first attachment device of an electronics insert. Furthermore, the electronics module comprises a second interface, wherein the second interface in its coupled state comprises a space from a first interface of the electronics insert. The space between the second interface and the first interface remains essentially constant during movement of the electronics insert.  
         [0015]     According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a measuring device with an electronics insert arrangement is provided. In this setup the electronics insert arrangement comprises the above-mentioned characteristics.  
         [0016]     An electronics insert may be a standard module for providing measuring-device-specific functions. As a result of the modularised design of a measuring device, in particular of a pressure measuring device and/or a fill level measuring device, installation of the measuring device may be simplified. For the construction of the measuring device, a standard housing type may be provided that can accommodate inserts that depend on the measuring device type. This measuring-device-specific insert in the standard housing may be equipped for providing and evaluating the measured variable, for which the measuring device is designed. For example, the electronics insert may be equipped to carry out pressure measuring or fill level measuring.  
         [0017]     A module or conductor module with corresponding control software, which is designed for measuring fill levels, can differ from a module that is specialised for measuring pressures. Therefore the functionalities of different electronics inserts can be different from each other.  
         [0018]     It may also be possible to differentiate between electronics inserts according to the way in which they pick up the corresponding measured variables. Fill levels can, for example, be determined by means of radar pulses, high frequency, ultrasound, or capacitive means. Consequently, the functionalities implemented may differ from those of electronics inserts that are designed for determining the same measuring type.  
         [0019]     Furthermore, an electronics insert may be provided for connection to a measuring device bus. Examples of measuring buses include the HART® bus, in particular implemented in two-wire or four-wire technique, the VBUS, the field bus foundation bus or the Profibus. The standard electronic insert provided for the corresponding bus type may differ in relation to the interfaces, such as connecting terminals, provided on the electronics inserts.  
         [0020]     In other words, the functionality of various electronics inserts may differ depending on the measuring functions implemented with them. However, the external dimensions of the housings, which are for example made of plastic, may essentially be identical. The electronics inserts can however comprise corresponding interfaces to provide different connections.  
         [0021]     If additional functionalities apart from those of the electronics inserts are to be implemented, additional modules may be necessary, which modules expand the basic functionality of the corresponding electronics insert. For example, display illumination or display heating may be a required additional functionality. The additional functionalities may differ from the functionalities of the electronics insert. Consequently, the processes of the electronics insert functionality may be entirely different from the processes of the additional module functionality.  
         [0022]     Additional space in the measuring device housing may be required for the additional modules. If the additional components, additional electronics or additional modules are provided in an electronics module as an expansion module, second attachment devices on the electronics module can be designed such that they can be made to engage first attachment devices of the electronics insert or of the electronics can. In this way the electronics module may be coupled to the electronics insert. Relative movement between the electronics insert and the electronics module may be prevented by coupling by means of the first and the second attachment device.  
         [0023]     The electronics insert can comprise a housing that can accommodate a conductor module for implementing the processes of the first functionality. The electronics module can also comprise a housing that can accommodate components or conductor modules or electronics prints which implement the processes of the second functionality.  
         [0024]     Furthermore, it may be necessary to exchange information or performance between the electronics insert and the electronics module. For the exchange of information or performance, connection lines that can be connected to the electronics insert and to the electronics module may be used. The connection lines can be connected to interfaces that can form part of the electronics insert or the electronics module.  
         [0025]     The electronics insert, in particular the housing of the electronics insert, can comprise a first interface, through which a connection line can lead from the electronics module to a conductor module of the electronics insert. The electronics module, too, in particular the housing of the electronics module, can comprise an interface through which a connection line can lead from the electronics insert to a conductor module of the electronics module.  
         [0026]     This interface can also, for example, be designed as a clamp-type connection for connection lines. For example, the HART® protocol may provide for the associated bus to be designed in the form of a two-wire line or a four-wire line. In the case of the two-wire technique, two interface connections can be provided, while in the case of the four-wire technique, four connections can be provided.  
         [0027]     If communication between the additional functions of an electronics module is to take place with the functionalities of the electronics insert, this communication can take place by way of the connection lines. The connection lines connect the electronics module with the electronics insert. Connection of the connection line to the respective component on the respective modules can take place by way of soldered connections or plug-type connections. If the electronics module is affixed loosely in the measuring device housing, due to the inertia of the electronics module, said electronics module can be displaced within the housing as a result of external mechanical influences such as shaking or shocks.  
         [0028]     If the electronics module is only attached to the electronics insert by means of connection lines, and if the electronics insert is attached to the measuring device housing, in the case of movement of the electronics insert, relative movement between the electronics module and the electronics insert may occur. As a result of this the space of an interface of the electronics module from an interface of the electronics insert may change.  
         [0029]     Consequently the electronics module may exert a tensile force on the connection line so that the connection line is moved from its attachment. This may in turn result in contact deficiencies and defects occurring in the measuring device or in the additional function of the measuring device, which additional function is provided by way of the electronics module.  
         [0030]     By means of attachment of the electronics module to the electronics insert, relative movement of the electronics module in relation to the electronics insert may be prevented. The electronics module may follow movement of the electronics insert.  
         [0031]     Due to creeping of the electronics module it may also be possible for chafing on other components that project into the interior of the measuring device housing to occur. Chafing of the electronics module on other components may also be prevented by fixed position installation on the electronics insert in the interior of the measuring device housing, in the same way as jamming against other components can be prevented.  
         [0032]     Changes in the position in the case of overhead installation may also be prevented.  
         [0033]     Below, further exemplary embodiments of the electronics insert arrangement are described. These exemplary embodiments and designs also apply to the electronics insert, to the electronics module and to the measuring device comprising an electronics insert arrangement.  
         [0034]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an electronics insert arrangement is stated, wherein the space between the first interface of the electronics insert and the second interface of the electronics module remains essentially constant during vibration.  
         [0035]     Vibrations can be mechanical loads that can occur, in particular, during measuring carried out on moving objects. Most of the time vibration only gives rise to small forces, but the regular occurrence of these forces may result in loads that can have an effect, in particular, on plugged-in connections. Over an extended period of time, clamping connections may become undone due to vibration. Vibration-proof attachment, in which a first attachment device engages a second attachment device in a vibration-proof manner, can prevent relative movement of the electronics module in relation to the electronics insert in the case of vibrations. Consequently, loads arising as a result of vibration may be kept away from connection lines.  
         [0036]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention the first attachment device and the second attachment device can be made to engage each other without the use of tools.  
         [0037]     In the case of repair work, in particular in the case of expanding functionalities of measuring devices, it may be necessary for the measuring device housing to be opened and the electronics module to be dismantled in order to be able to access the interior of the measuring device housing. A modular design may prevent the need for complicated handling of tools during deinstallation and reinstallation of a measuring device. Often, special tools are required in order to be able to deinstall parts. If a coupling, in particular a connected attachment by means of the first attachment device and the second attachment device, can be opened or closed without any tools, then installation of an electronics module may be accelerated.  
         [0038]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electronics insert comprises a first plane surface, and the electronics module comprises a second plane surface. In an operational state in which the first attachment device and the second attachment device are in mutual engagement, the first plane surface and the second plane surface come to rest essentially flat against each other.  
         [0039]     Since the frictional force which two bodies that rest one against the other exert is greater the larger the area of the surfaces resting against each other or contacting each other, it may be useful for securing a position or for improving vibration resistance if the largest-possible plane surface is used as a support surface of an electronics module on or at an electronics insert.  
         [0040]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first attachment device and the second attachment device are clamp-type connections or snap-in connections.  
         [0041]     A clamp-type connection can use a frictional force between two communicating attachment devices in order to hold two communicating parts together. In this arrangement, for example springs or the effect of sprung components can be used in order to increase the contact pressure so as to, in this way, increasing the strength of the attachment.  
         [0042]     In the case of snap-in connections, specially adapted hook connections are used which may make possible simple snap-in while they may essentially prevent the connection from becoming undone. A barb is just one example of a snap-in connection.  
         [0043]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first attachment device is designed as an injection-moulded retainer.  
         [0044]     Since the electronics insert can be a standard component which in itself, due to the modularity of the components, comprises certain add-on components, production of the electronics insert may be simplified if an already existing injection-moulded retainer is used for attaching the electronics module, so as to attach the electronics module to the electronics insert. The second attachment device of the electronics module can be designed such that it can snap-into or clamp onto an injection-moulded geometric shape that is present on all electronics cans or electronics inserts.  
         [0045]     In other words, this means that, for example, an electronics insert can comprise a screw retainer for attachment of the electronics insert in the measuring device housing by means of a screw. By way of the design of the second attachment device of the electronics module this screw retainer can be used in such a way that the attachment device, apart from its actual function of providing attachment of the electronics insert to the measuring device housing, is used for attaching the electronics module to the electronics insert.  
         [0046]     According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first attachment device is a rail retainer, wherein the second attachment device is designed as a guide rail. The guide rail and the rail retainer can be made to engage each other.  
         [0047]     During engagement of the guide rail and the rail retainer, frictional forces may arise that can hold the guide rail in the rail retainer in a fixed position. As a result of the special design of this rail guide system, additional support may be provided, for example with the additional use of a snap-in connection. It may thus be possible to ensure reliable fixed-position installation of the electronics module.  
         [0048]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first attachment device is designed such that the electronics insert can be attached to the measuring device housing by means of the second attachment device. For example, the first attachment device can be a screw retainer for attaching the electronics insert to the measuring device housing.  
         [0049]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the first attachment device is a screw retainer. In this arrangement the screw retainer can be a geometric shape that has been injection-moulded to the electronics insert.  
         [0050]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electronics module is designed to accommodate an electronics print.  
         [0051]     Due to the associated electronics print or the associated additional module, the electronics module can carry out additional functions. To this effect the electronics module can, for example, provide a fixed hollow region in which an electronics print can be installed.  
         [0052]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electronics module comprises a housing.  
         [0053]     By means of a housing an expansion module or an electronics module may be standardised. The housing, in particular the external shape of the housing, and furthermore in particular the second attachment device of the housing of an electronics module, can be designed for attachment to the first attachment device of an electronics insert. In this arrangement the housing of an electronics module can provide a defined space, into which, for example, a module or component can be placed in addition. By means of standardisation of the electronics module housing an electronics insert arrangement can also be designed as a modular system irrespective of the additional functionalities to be implemented.  
         [0054]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention the electronics module is designed as a cast element.  
         [0055]     In this arrangement the external shape of the cast element can match the first attachment device of an electronics insert such that the cast element is attachable to the electronics insert. When casting a module with a resin or plastic the individual shape of a module or of a module frame can be taken into account and the module frame can match the shape of the first attachment device.  
         [0056]     In particular, the module can comprise a second attachment device and in this way can match the first attachment device. Furthermore, cast components can be secured against movement. The cast material can be used to increase the coefficient of friction of the plane surfaces of the electronics module and of the electronics insert against each other, thus contributing to an increase in the reliability of the fixed-position attachment.  
         [0057]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electronics module comprises an EMC filter (German: EMV-Filter).  
         [0058]     Using the electronics insert in an EMC-loaded environment may, for example, result in the components in the interior of the electronics of the electronics insert being interfered with or destroyed as a result of line-bound EMC interference. Destruction of the components may be prevented by means of an EMC filter located in the electronics module. Conversely, as a result of the EMC filter, line-bound interference generated in the electronics insert may not leave the measuring device housing.  
         [0059]     In other words this means that external feed lines, for example inlets that can lead from a measuring bus or a power supply to the electronics insert, should in particular be connected to modules in the electronics insert. Before they are terminated on the electronics insert, these lines can be fed to the electronics module that comprises an EMC filter. The EMC filter can thus be coupled or connected in series between the external lines and the electronics insert, thus clearing any interference.  
         [0060]     In this context the term “external” refers to a line extending at least partially outside a measuring device housing, sensor housing or field device housing. Consequently the line can be subjected to external interference and the line could lead the interference to the electronics insert.  
         [0061]     The electronics module may thus be equipped as a preliminary filter for the electronics insert so as to protect the electronics insert. The EMC filter in or on the electronics module can be designed such that interference or interfering influences that are caused as a result of electromagnetic interactions, in particular in the external lines, may be removed outside the electronics insert and essentially may not reach the electronics insert. Such interference can, for example, be experienced in close proximity of an induction furnace. The EMC filter may consequently decouple the electronics insert from the external lines.  
         [0062]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electronics module comprises a connection line, wherein the connection line is designed such that a first interface is connectable to a second interface.  
         [0063]     The information exchange or energy exchange between the electronics insert and the electronics module may take place by means of the connection line, wherein for contacting an electronics module in the electronics insert or an electronics group in the electronics module, the connection line may lead by way of the interface into the interior of the electronics insert or of the electronics module. By means of the connection line a connection between the electronics module and the electronics insert may be established.  
         [0064]     According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electronics module is equipped for processing a 4 to 20 mA signal.  
         [0065]     In measurement technology, 4 to 20 mA current signals are used not only for transmitting measured information but also for transmitting power or energy. Consequently it may happen that 4 to 20 mA signals are also exchanged between the electronics insert and the electronics module.  
         [0066]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electronics insert can be equipped for carrying out a measuring functionality. For example, the electronics insert can be an electronics insert for carrying out measurements by means of a fill level sensor or a pressure sensor. The electronics insert can provide measuring results obtained during measuring.  
         [0067]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electronics module can be equipped to carry out a display functionality.  
         [0068]     A display functionality can be an additional function that differs from the measuring functionality. Consequently it may be necessary to use additional modules that can be accommodated in an external electronics module. An electronics module for carrying out a display functionality, in particular display illumination, may be expanded irrespective of the measuring function.  
         [0069]     According to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electronics module is equipped to carry out a heating functionality.  
         [0070]     In particular, a heating functionality can involve heating of a display so that the display may be more easily read. The heating functionality may take place by means of additional modules and can thus be used in an expansion module in addition to the electronics module.  
         [0071]     According to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the measuring device in which the electronics insert arrangement is used is either a pressure measuring device or a fill level measuring device.  
         [0072]     An aspect of the present invention provides for additional components or additional electronics to be attached to a standardised electronics can or electronics insert by way of a clamping connection and/or a snap-in connection. In other words, in each measuring device the additional components or additional electronics may be located in the same position even across large numbers. As a result of the clamping connection and/or the snap-in connection the additional components or additional electronics are connected in a vibration-resistant manner to the electronics can and thus to the measuring device. The additional components or additional electronics may also be unable to change their position in the housing of the measuring device for example as a result of overhead installation.  
         [0073]     Instead of loosely fastening an electronics module, the electronics module can be fastened to a standardised plastic electronics can in that on the plastic electronics can injection-moulded retainers, pins, etc. can be used as a retainer for a standardised snap-in-clamping connection. For example, plastic cast or injection-moulded components or extrusion coated electronics prints can be used, wherein the fixed or flexible cast of these components can comprise external contours that match the geometric shapes present on the electronics cans, or that click into the injection-moulded geometric shapes.  
         [0074]     For example, screw retainers of the attachment of the electronics-can can be used in the housing without wasting space in such a way that the screws for attachment of the can in the housing can no longer be reached. In other words, already before the electronics can is inserted in the measuring device housing, the additional components or additional electronics may be snapped onto the standardised electronics housing, by way of the clamp-type snap-in connection, in the manner of a backpack. In a single work step the complete unit can be inserted in the housing, and subsequent undefined placement of an additional component in an existing void can be prevented. This may also obviate the need for “fiddling around”.  
         [0075]     The principle of casting may also make it possible to cast several required additional components in this cast and to snap or clamp them as a unit, e.g. as a backpack or an electronics module, to the electronics can. Instead of casting, even without casting a further housing may be provided, whose external contours comprise the corresponding geometric snap-in shapes in order to be able to be attached to the electronics can. In the void of the additional housing with the outside contour, the components, electronics or electronic prints can be accommodated.  
         [0076]     Below, exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the figures. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS  
       [0077]      FIG. 1  shows a top view of an electronics module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0078]      FIG. 2  shows a bottom view of an electronics module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0079]      FIG. 3  shows a lateral view of an electronics module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0080]      FIG. 4  shows a partial view of an attachment device of an electronics insert according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0081]      FIG. 5  shows a lateral view of an electronics insert arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0082]      FIG. 6  shows a front view of an electronics insert arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0083]      FIG. 7  shows a top view of an electronics insert arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0084]      FIG. 8  shows a perspective view of an electronics insert arrangement in a decoupled operational state according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0085]      FIG. 9  shows a perspective view of an electronics insert arrangement in a coupled operational state according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0086]      FIG. 10  shows a further perspective view of an electronics insert arrangement in a coupled operational state according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0087]      FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of an electronics insert arrangement in a coupled state with a measuring device housing according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0088]      FIG. 12  shows a top view of an electronics insert arrangement in an installed state in a measuring device housing according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
       [0089]     The illustrations in the figures are diagrammatic and not to scale. In the following description of FIGS.  1  to  12 , the same reference characters may be used for identical or corresponding elements.  
         [0090]     I2C or I 2 C (integrated circuit) is a serial bus for computer systems. It can be used for connecting devices with low transmission speeds to an embedded system or to a main printed circuit board.  
         [0091]     The HART® protocol (highway addressable remote transmitter) can, in particular, be designated an open master slave protocol for bus-addressable field devices. It can implement a method of transmitting data by means of frequency shift keying (FSK) superimposed on the 4 to 20 mA process signal in order to make it possible to carry out remote configuration and diagnostic tests. It can be implemented both as a two-wire bus with an integrated voltage supply, or a four-wire bus with a separate voltage supply.  
         [0092]     Both I2C and HART® are suitable as protocols for communication with a field device, e.g. with a liquid-measuring device or with a pressure measuring device.  
         [0093]      FIG. 1  shows a top view of an electronics module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 1  shows an electronics module  101  that comprises an essentially rectangular shape, each with two longer parallel sides and two shorter parallel sides. The electronics module  101  comprises a module body  102  and a right-hand guide rail  103  and a left-hand guide rail  104  on its longitudinal sides.  
         [0094]     The guide rails  103  and  104  finish flush with one of the shorter sides of the electronics module  101  and extend parallel in relation to the two longer sides of equal length, along approximately three quarters of the length of the two longer sides. Consequently the electronics module  101  is T-shaped.  
         [0095]     The module body  102  is divided into the two partial regions  108  and  107 . The partial region  107 , protruding from the drawing plane, is higher than the partial region  108 . The partial region  107  thus encloses a larger volume than the partial region  108  so that the partial region  107  can accommodate larger components than the partial region  108 .  
         [0096]     The housing body  102  comprises five interfaces  106  through which the connection lines  105  can reach the interior of the housing body  102 , in particular a module located in the housing body  102 . As an alternative the interfaces  106  can be designed as connecting terminals to which the connection lines  105  can be attached.  
         [0097]      FIG. 2  shows a bottom view of an electronics module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 2  shows that the guide rails  103  and  104  comprise a contour, as a result of which they are designed as a clam-type connection. The plane surface  201  extends at least partly along the guide rail  103  and  104 . From approximately half of the length of the guide rails  103  and  104 , the rail bodies  103  and  104  are no longer made of solid material and thus no longer form part of the plane surface  201 .  
         [0098]      FIG. 3  shows a lateral view of an electronics module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 3  shows a top view of one side of the electronics module  101  in the direction of view A of  FIG. 1 . The housing body  102  is rectangular in shape also in lateral view. The diagram shows that the height of the lateral region  107  exceeds the height of the lateral region  108 . The diagram further shows that the plane surface  201  extends only along a partial region of the guide rail  104 . In this arrangement the guide rail  104  is bottle shaped. Consequently an end region  301  of the guide rail  104  is formed that does not extend all the way to the plane surface  201 . As a result of the bottle shape, the guide rail  104  matches the geometric shape of a rail retainer. Moreover, if pressure is exerted in the direction of the plane surface  201 , the end piece  301  can easily yield, and, by means of a spring force generated in this way, can exert corresponding counterpressure. The interface  106  is arranged at the height of the edge of the guide rail  104 , which edge faces the plane surface  201 .  
         [0099]      FIG. 4  shows a partial view of an attachment device of an electronics insert. The diagram shows the plane surface  401  of the electronics insert with the injection-moulded part  402 . The injection-moulded part  402  is a screw retainer for the attachment screw  403 . By means of the attachment device  402  or the injection-moulded part  402  the electronics insert  404  is attached to a measuring device housing (not shown in  FIG. 4 ).  
         [0100]     The attachment device  402  comprises a vertical flange  405  that is arranged at a right angle on the plane surface  401 . In a foot region of the vertical flange  405  there is a projection  408 . At a distance  406 , parallel to the plane surface  401 , a further flange  407  extends. Between the projection  408  and the attachment flange  407  a retainer is formed, into which the guide rail of the electronics module  103  or  104  can be inserted. The attachment flange  407  and the projection  408  are essentially spaced apart from each other by the space  406 .  
         [0101]     When the guide rail  104  or  103  is coupled to the attachment device  402 , the plane surfaces of the electronics module  201  and the plane surface of the electronics insert  401  come to rest flat against each other. By inserting the guide rails  103  or  104  of the electronics module in the gap  406  or in the retainer  406  the attachment flange  407  is lightly pressed away from the plane surface.  
         [0102]     Due to the elastic properties of the plastic material from which the injection-moulded part  402  is made, the attachment flange  407  exerts pressure, by way of one of the guide rails  103  or  104 , onto a lateral region of the electronics module  101 . As a result of this pressure the plane surfaces  201  and  401  of the electronics module or of the electronics insert are pressed against each other, as a result of which the friction, in particular the adherence, of the surfaces  201 ,  401  against each other is increased. Increasing the friction causes a firm seat of the electronics module  101  on the electronics insert  404  in an installed or coupled state.  
         [0103]      FIG. 5  shows a lateral view of an electronics insert arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 5  shows the electronics insert  404  with an electronics module  101  in a coupled state. The electronics module with the guide rail  103  is snapped into attachment device  402 . The plane surface  401  of the electronics insert  404  and the plane surface  201  of the electronics module rest flat against each other so that they are held against each other by means of frictional force.  
         [0104]      FIG. 5  also shows the interface region  501  of the electronics insert  404 . Furthermore, the interface  106  of the electronics module  101  is shown, including a connection line  105  that comprises a connector  502 . By coupling the electronics module  101  to the electronics insert  404  the space between the interface  106  and a reference point of the interface region  501  remains constant during movement of the electronics insert arrangement  503  because the electronics module  101  follows the movement of the electronics insert  404 . As a result of the constant space the connection cable  105  with the connector  502  can be inserted in one of the interfaces without movement of the electronics insert arrangement  503  exerting a force from the electronics module  101  on the connection line  105  and in particular on the connector  502 , which force could cause the connector to disconnect from an interface of the interface region  501 . However, in  FIG. 5  the connector  502  is shown in a disconnected operating state.  
         [0105]     The diagram also shows the EMC filter  504 , installed in the electronics module  101 , which EMC filter  504  ensures shielding of the electronics module  101 , in particular of a component installed in the electronics module  101 .  
         [0106]     The electronics insert  404  comprises a measuring device infeed  505  by means of which a connection between measuring electronics situated in the electronics insert  404  and an associated measuring device (not shown in  FIG. 5 ) can take place.  
         [0107]      FIG. 6  shows a front view of an electronics insert arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, in an installed state. Again, the electronics insert  404  with the measuring device infeed  505  and the interface region  501  are shown. This frontal view also shows the individual interfaces  601 , to which the connectors  602  or the bare wire  603  can be connected. Connection from the interfaces  601  to the interfaces  106  is by way of the connection lines  105 . The diagram also shows that the electronics module  101  with the guide rails  103  or  104  is clamped into the attachment devices  402 .  
         [0108]     Below, the two attachment devices  402  will be examined more closely, whose design is symmetrical and consequently is described only once. These are injection-moulded parts that are provided for attaching the electronics insert  404  to a measuring device housing (not shown). Attachment to the measuring device housing is by means of the attachment screw  403  that is arranged in an attachment device comprising the perpendicular flange  405  and the attachment flange  407 .  
         [0109]     In frontal view the flanges  405  and  407  are frame-shaped, wherein the frame is interrupted by the gap  602 . In this way the gap  602  separates two spring elements that are formed by the flanges  405  and  407 . Thus, during insertion of the electronics module  101  behind the parallel attachment flange  407 , the part of the frame of the attachment device  402 , which part faces the electronics module  101 , can be moved somewhat from the drawing plane so as to firmly clamp the attachment rail  103  or  104  into place by means of a restoring force. As a result of the restoring force generated during the excursion, the electronics module  101  is held to the electronics insert  404 , and the distance between a previously determined interface  106  and a previously determined interface  601  remains constant even if the electronics insert  404  moves.  
         [0110]      FIG. 7  shows a top view of an electronics insert arrangement according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 7  shows that the electronics insert  404  is in part circular in shape, wherein the circular shape is interrupted by the plane surface  401  that is arranged chord-like in the circle described by the housing  404 .  
         [0111]     The electronics module  101  with the EMC filter  504  is squeezed in behind the attachment device  402 . The attachment device  402  is provided for installation to a measuring device housing by means of a screw  403 . Installation of the electronics module  101  does not impede access to the screws  403 . In this arrangement the width of the plane surface  201  matches the space of the attachment devices  402 . Parallel attachment to two attachment devices  402  improves the strength of the clamp-type connection. However, the electronics module  101  can easily be removed from the electronics insert  404  manually, i.e. without any tools. Installation without the use of tools can accelerate an installation or repair process.  
         [0112]      FIG. 8  shows a perspective view of an electronics insert arrangement in a decoupled operating state according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 8  also shows the electronics module with the guide rails  103  and  104  with the electronics connection lines  105  and the associated connectors  502 ,  602  and  603 . The connectors  502 ,  602  and  603  can be inserted in corresponding interfaces of the interface strip  501 . The interfaces  501  can, for example, be designed for the supply of power or for a display connection or a monitor connection. Apart from this it is also possible to design the interfaces  601  of the interface region  501  as a control connection such as an I 2 C bus.  
         [0113]     The electronics module  101  can be coupled to the electronics insert  404  in that the guide rails  104  or  103  are inserted in the retainers  406 .  FIG. 8  also shows that the measuring device leadthrough  505  comprises an elevation  801  that protrudes from the plane surface  401 . In an installed state this elevation can lift the module body  102  of the electronics module  101  in the direction of the flange  407  and can thus increase the pressure of the guide rails  103  or  104  by means of the flange  407 , as a result of which the friction and adherence can be still further improved.  
         [0114]      FIG. 9  shows a perspective view of an electronics insert arrangement in a coupled operational state according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 9  shows the different heights of the retainer of the electronics module bodies  107  and  108 . The illustration also shows that the end region  301  of the guide rail  104  with its bottle shape matches an attachment structure  901 ,  408  of the attachment device  402 . The form adaptation makes possible unimpeded insertion of the guide rail  402  into the guide  406 .  
         [0115]      FIG. 10  shows a further perspective view of an electronics insert arrangement in an installed state.  FIG. 10  shows that by means of the notch  1001  the shape of the housing of the electronics module  101  or the cast shape of the electronics module  101  on the side of the plane surface  201  matches the elevation  801  that is caused by the measuring device coupling  505 . The notch  1001  has been made by the removal of material on the plane surface  201  of the electronics module  101 . Due to materials removal the plane surface  201  is interrupted in the region of the notch.  
         [0116]      FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of an electronics insert arrangement with a measuring device housing. The measuring device housing  1101  comprises a cylindrical shape into which the electronics insert arrangement  503  can be inserted due to the essentially cylindrical design of the electronics insert  404 .  
         [0117]      FIG. 12  shows a top view of an electronics insert arrangement in an installed state in a measuring device housing.  FIG. 12  shows that due to the chord-like design of the plane surface  401  of the electronics insert  404  a void  1201  is formed in the interior of the measuring device housing  1101 . This void  1201  can be used for accommodating the electronics module  101 . To this effect the electronics module  101  is coupled to the electronics insert  404 . Due to the fixed-position and vibration-resistant installation of the electronics module  101  on the electronics insert  404 , the electronics module  101  cannot chafe against components, such as for example the grounding screw  1202 , which components are additionally present in the measuring device housing.  
         [0118]     During movement, in particular during shaking or jarring, of the measuring device housing  1101  or of the electronics insert  404 , the interfaces  106  and  601  maintain an essentially constant space, as a result of which tension on the connection lines  105 , due to the weight force of the electronics module  101 , can be prevented. The distance between a particular interface  106  and the control interface  1203  also remains constant during movement.  
         [0119]     A cover (not shown in  FIG. 12 ) can close the measuring device housing  1101 . In this way a compact arrangement of additional electronics within the measuring device  1101  is possible.  
         [0120]     In addition it should be pointed out that “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and “a” or “one” does not exclude a plural number. Furthermore, it should be pointed out that characteristics or steps which have been described with reference to one of the above exemplary embodiments can also be used in combination with other characteristics or steps of other exemplary embodiments described above. Reference characters in the claims are not to be interpreted as limitations.