Connector assembly

Abstract

A connector assembly includes a resilient fixing unit, a housing, and a pulling unit. The resilient fixing unit has a retaining portion and a driving portion, wherein the retaining portion and the driving portion are interconnected. The housing is connected to the resilient fixing unit. The pulling unit is movably connected to the housing and has a force-applying portion and a driving portion, wherein the driving portion is connected to the driving portion, and the force-applying portion is configured to receive force and drive the pulling unit to move along the direction of the applied force, so that the driving portion further drives the retaining portion and the driving portion to move.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a connector assembly with a pull strap. Prior Technology

[0002] Due to size and application conditions, plugging and unplugging connectors can sometimes be quite difficult. Especially in situations with limited space or a large number of connectors, users may find it difficult to apply force or find a suitable point of application, making the process of pulling out or removing the connector time-consuming and laborious. Sometimes, workers need to disassemble the connector housing or surrounding cables to pull out or remove the connector, which can damage the connector.

[0003] Furthermore, some existing connection structures often struggle to balance stability and ease of operation once the connection is secured. To ensure connector reliability, complex locking mechanisms are often required to secure the connector; however, these complex locking mechanisms actually increase the difficulty of disassembly when the connector needs to be pulled out or removed.

[0004] Therefore, how to design a connector that can provide a secure connection and can be easily pulled out or disassembled when needed is an ongoing research topic in the field of connection technology. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned problems, this disclosure provides a connector assembly including a resilient fixing unit, a housing, and a pulling unit. The resilient fixing unit has a retaining portion and a driving portion, wherein the retaining portion and the driving portion are interconnected. The housing is connected to the resilient fixing unit. The pulling unit is movably connected to the housing and has a force-applying portion and a driving portion, wherein the driving portion is connected to the driving portion, and the force-applying portion is configured to receive force and drive the pulling unit to move along the force-applying direction, such that the driving portion further drives the driving portion and the retaining portion to move.

[0006] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the housing includes a guide portion configured to guide the drive portion to move along a first direction not parallel to the direction of force application.

[0007] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the elastic fixing unit is a type of seesaw assembly, with the holding part and the transmission part being the two ends of the seesaw assembly that move relative to each other.

[0008] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the transmission part includes a protrusion extending substantially perpendicular to the direction of force application, and the drive part includes a drive hole engaging the protrusion.

[0009] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the protrusion includes extensions extending along opposite sides thereof, wherein the width of the extensions is greater than the width of the drive hole.

[0010] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the housing includes a first limiting portion, the pulling unit includes an elongated through hole extending along the direction of force application, and the first limiting portion is relatively movable to engage with the elongated through hole and configured to resist the pulling unit when the pulling unit moves to a preset position along the direction of force application.

[0011] In some embodiments disclosed herein, a first limiting portion is configured to limit the pulling unit in a second direction perpendicular to the direction of force application.

[0012] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the housing includes a window, wherein the window is aligned with the first limiting portion in a second direction perpendicular to the direction of force application.

[0013] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the pulling unit further includes an assembly portion that connects to the drive portion, and the housing includes a second limiting portion that connects to the assembly portion, the second limiting portion being configured to limit the assembly portion in a plane direction perpendicular to the direction of force application.

[0014] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the second limiting portion includes at least one limiting post extending opposite to the direction of force application, and the driving portion includes at least one assembly hole, wherein the at least one limiting post is respectively connected to the at least one assembly hole.

[0015] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the force-applying portion includes a plurality of protruding ribs extending parallel to each other.

[0016] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the force-applying portion includes two adjacent force-applying holes.

[0017] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a connector assembly including a resilient fixing unit, a housing, and a pull unit. The resilient fixing unit has a retaining portion, a driving portion, and a connecting portion located between the retaining portion and the driving portion, and the driving portion and the retaining portion are interconnected. The housing is connected to the resilient fixing unit through the connecting portion. The pull unit is movably connected to the housing and engages with the connecting portion, wherein the pull unit has a force-applying portion and a driving portion, the force-applying portion being configured to receive force and drive the pull unit to move along the force-applying direction, causing the driving portion to move towards the driving portion and pull the driving portion and the retaining portion to move.

[0018] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the drive unit is configured to move by elastic deformation along a first direction that is not parallel to the direction of force application.

[0019] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the drive unit is substantially L-shaped and partially located above the transmission unit, with one end of the drive unit located on the side of the transmission unit opposite to the retaining unit.

[0020] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the housing includes a limiting portion, the pulling unit includes an elongated through hole extending along the direction of force application, and the limiting portion is relatively movable to engage the elongated through hole and configured to resist the pulling unit when the pulling unit moves to a preset position along the direction of force application.

[0021] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the limiting portion is configured to limit the pulling unit in a second direction perpendicular to the direction of force application.

[0022] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the limiting portion is substantially T-shaped.

[0023] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the pulling unit is a pull belt.

[0024] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the elastic fixing unit is a latch or lock, with the holding part and the transmission part being the two ends of the latch or lock that move relative to each other, and the holding part can be unlocked by pulling or pressing the transmission part.

[0025] The connector assembly disclosed herein provides a simple operating mode, allowing users to quickly and easily unlock and detach the connector even in space-constrained conditions. Firstly, this disclosure employs a special elastic fixing unit, enabling easy release of the mating connector via a pulling unit. Secondly, to ensure the connector's long-term stable performance, this disclosure cleverly integrates multiple precision guiding structures, including limiting and guiding parts. These structures precisely constrain and guide the movement trajectory of the pulling unit, thereby ensuring the smoothness and accuracy of operating the pulling unit. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0026] Figure 1 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the connector assembly disclosed herein, in which some components are shown as transparent by dashed lines. Figure 2 is an exploded view of the connector assembly disclosed herein. Figure 3 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the connector assembly disclosed herein from another perspective. Figure 4 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the connector assembly disclosed herein from another perspective. Figure 5 is a rear view of the connector assembly disclosed herein. Figures 6 and 7 are cross-sectional views drawn based on the secant line C in Figure 3, with Figures 6 and 7 showing different states. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the wire-end connector in some other embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the wire-end connector in some other embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 10 is a perspective view of the wire-end connector in some other embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 11 is a perspective view of the wire-end connector in some embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 12 is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the wire connector in Figure 11 from another perspective. Figures 13 and 14 are three-dimensional cross-sectional views of the wire connector in Figure 11, with Figures 13 and 14 showing different states. Implementation

[0027] To make the purpose, technical features, and advantages of this disclosure more apparent and understandable, a detailed description will be provided below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the specific embodiments described below are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. In the specification and drawings, the same component symbols generally represent components with the same or similar functions. Furthermore, for ease of description, the first axis X, the second axis Y, and the third axis Z are defined as substantially perpendicular to each other, and the first axis X, the second axis Y, and the third axis Z are used as references for describing the relative positions, arrangement relationships, and directions of forces of components.

[0028] Please refer to Figures 1 through 5. In some embodiments disclosed herein, the connector assembly 10 comprises a wire-end connector 100 and a mating connector A. The wire-end connector 100 includes a resilient retaining unit 110, a pulling unit 130, and a housing 150. Furthermore, the wire-end connector 100 is connected to the mating connector A (e.g., a board-end connector on a circuit board) via the resilient retaining unit 110, and the resilient retaining unit 110 is detached from the mating connector A via the pulling unit 130. The housing 150 provides protection and support. Through the cooperation of these components, the wire-end connector 100 can be easily used with the mating connector A. The various components of the wire-end connector 100 and the mating connector A will be described in detail below.

[0029] The elastic fixing unit 110 has a holding portion 111, a transmission portion 113, and a connecting portion 115 located between the holding portion 111 and the transmission portion 113, wherein the holding portion 111 and the transmission portion 113 are interlocked; the elastic fixing unit 110 is elastic and can perform controllable and recoverable relative movement. The holding portion 111 and the transmission portion 113 can move relative to a rigid connecting portion 115 or relative to a flexible connecting portion 115. Specifically, the elastic fixing unit 110 may be made of an elastic material (e.g., elastic plastic or elastic alloy), but this disclosure is not limited thereto. In addition, the transmission portion 113 and the holding portion 111 are interlocked, meaning that the movement of the transmission portion 113 will guide the movement of the holding portion 111, and vice versa.

[0030] The pulling unit 130 may include a pull strap, wherein the pulling unit 130 has a force-applying part 131 located at the rear and a drive part 133 located at the front, and the transmission part 113 of the elastic fixing unit 110 is connected to the drive part 133 and driven by the drive part 133. The force-applying part 131 is used for the user to apply force along the force-applying direction X1 (a linear direction on the first axis X), so that the entire pulling unit 130 moves approximately along the force-applying direction X1. In addition, the drive part 133 is used to drive the elastic fixing unit 110 to operate. Specifically, the pulling unit 130 is generally made of a wear-resistant and strong plastic material, such as polycarbonate (PC), nylon, or elastic plastic material, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0031] The housing 150 is movably connected to the pull unit 130, allowing the pull unit 130 to move within a limited range relative to the housing 150. The housing 150 provides support, protection, and positioning for the components of the cable connector 100. The housing 150 is typically made of an insulating plastic material with good mechanical strength, such as engineering plastics, polycarbonate (PC), or nylon (PA). Furthermore, the housing 150 includes a first housing 152, a second housing 154, and a plurality of mating channels 156 extending along a first axial direction X. The first housing 152, the second housing 154, and the mating channels 156 are fixed to each other (e.g., by locking means or snap-fit ​​structures) and collectively protect the components within the housing 150. The bottom of the second housing 154 has a through-hole 158 adjacent to the mating channel 156, so that the contact portion of the cable terminal can be accommodated in the mating channel 156, and the cable of the cable terminal can extend through the through-hole 158. In some embodiments disclosed herein, the docking channel 156 may be integrally formed on the first housing 152 or the second housing 154. However, the docking channel 156 may also be an assembly independent of the first housing 152 or the second housing 154, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0032] Please refer to Figures 6 and 7 simultaneously. Figures 6 and 7 are cross-sectional views drawn based on the section line C in Figure 3, with Figures 6 and 7 showing different states. In some embodiments, the elastic fixing unit 110 is a seesaw-like assembly, wherein the holding part 111 and the transmission part 113 are located at the two ends of the seesaw-like assembly that move relative to each other, and the connecting part 115 can support such a seesaw assembly. In addition, the holding part 111 is detachably connected to the docking connector A, wherein the holding part 111 may include a hook 111a, and the docking connector A includes a corresponding hook A1, wherein the holding part 111 is used to move toward or away from the docking connector A, so that the hook 111a is engaged or released in the hook A1. In some other embodiments disclosed herein, the elastic fixing unit 110 is a latch or lock, and the holding part 111 and the transmission part 113 are the two ends of the latch or lock that move relative to each other. The user can use the transmission part 113 to make the holding part 111 provide the function of unlocking or unlocking the hook part A1.

[0033] Please refer to Figures 6 and 7 simultaneously. In some embodiments disclosed herein, the housing 150 includes a guide portion 151 having a guide surface or guide channel that is not parallel to the force application direction X1. The guide portion 151 guides the drive portion 133 of the pulling unit 130 to move along a first direction D1 that is not parallel to the force application direction X1. In some embodiments, the guide surface of the guide portion 151 is inclined to the first axial direction X, and the guide surface is generally oriented in a direction opposite to the force application direction X1, such that the first direction D1 is inclined relative to the force application direction X1 (e.g., forming an acute angle), thereby driving the drive portion 133 to move simultaneously along the first axial direction X and the second axial direction Y. In other embodiments, the guide surface of the guide portion 151 is perpendicular to the first axial direction X and oriented in a direction opposite to the force application direction X1, such that the first direction D1 is perpendicular to the force application direction X1, thereby driving the drive portion 133 to move downward along the second axial direction Y. The drive unit 133 pulls the transmission unit 113 downward along the second axis Y, which can more effectively cause the retaining unit 111 to release the docking connector A than when the drive unit 133 moves only along the force direction X1.

[0034] In other words, when a user wants to operate the connector 100 (e.g., release the connector A), they can apply force to the force-applying part 131 of the pulling unit 130 along the force-applying direction X1. This force drives the drive part 133 of the pulling unit 130 to attempt to move along the force-applying direction X1. However, through the interaction between the guide part 151 of the housing 150 and the pulling unit 130, the movement direction of the drive part 133 can be guided to a first direction D1 that is not parallel to the force-applying direction X1. By changing this direction, the drive part 133 can effectively drive the transmission part 113 to move, thereby causing the retaining part 111 to lift up and release the connector A. It should be noted that the user only needs to follow a single force-applying direction X1 to complete the unlocking and disengagement of the connector 100 from the connector A. Compared to conventional connectors that may require multi-directional operation or complex unlocking steps, this disclosure significantly simplifies the disassembly process and reduces operational difficulty. Even in space-constrained environments, users can easily separate the wire end connector 100 and the mating connector A, effectively improving operational efficiency and reducing the risk of damaging the connector assembly 10.

[0035] Please refer to Figures 1 through 5. In some embodiments disclosed herein, the transmission part 113 may include a protrusion 113a, and the drive part 133 includes a drive hole 133a, wherein the protrusion 113a extends through and engages with the drive hole 133a, and the drive hole 133a is configured to drive the transmission part 113 to move, thereby causing the retaining part 111 to tilt and release the mating connector A. Specifically, the protrusion 113a includes a columnar body and is located on the upper surface of the transmission part 113. Referring to Figure 6, when the mating connector A is locked to the wire end connector 100, the protrusion 113a extends substantially perpendicular to the force direction X1 (extending along the second axial direction Y). Referring to Figure 7, when the wire end connector 100 releases the mating connector A, the extension direction of the protrusion 113a is slightly inclined to the force direction X1. It should be noted that the protrusion 113a being substantially perpendicular to the force application direction X1 means that, in the initial stage of force application in Figure 6, the extension direction of the protrusion 113a forms an angle close to or equal to 90 degrees with the force application direction X1. For example, in the initial stage of force application in Figure 6, the extension direction of the protrusion 113a and the force application direction X1 may form an angle between 80 and 100 degrees, and this disclosure is not limited thereto. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the side of the protrusion 113a near the retaining portion 111 abuts against the wall of the drive hole 133a and forms a recess along the first axial direction X (e.g., the force application direction X1). This recess helps the protrusion 113a and the drive hole 133a to move stably relative to each other.

[0036] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the protrusion 113a is substantially T-shaped or cross-shaped, wherein the protrusion 113a may include extensions 113b extending on opposite sides along the third axis Z. The width W1 of the extensions 113b is greater than the width W2 of the drive hole 133a, and the drive hole 133a is connected below the extensions 113b, thereby allowing the extensions 113b to limit the drive portion 133 along the second axis Y, preventing the drive hole 133a from falling upwards and off the transmission portion 113 when it moves. When the drive portion 133 moves along the first direction D1 (see Figure 6), the inner wall of the drive hole 133a pulls the protrusion 113a and drives the transmission portion 113 to move, causing the retaining portion 111 to move away from the mating connector A.

[0037] Please refer to Figures 1 through 5 simultaneously. In some embodiments disclosed herein, the housing 150 may include a first limiting portion 153. Meanwhile, the pulling unit 130 includes a body portion 135 and an elongated through-hole 135a extending from the body portion 135, wherein the body portion 135 is located between the force-applying portion 131 and the driving portion 133, and the elongated through-hole 135a extends primarily along the force-applying direction X1. Specifically, the first limiting portion 153 is relatively movably engaged with a portion of the elongated through-hole 135a. The first limiting portion 153 is configured to abut against the pulling unit 130 when the pulling unit 130 moves along the force-applying direction X1 to a preset position (the position where the end of the elongated through-hole 135a contacts the first limiting portion 153), thereby restricting the relative movement of the pulling unit 130 and the housing 150 in the first axial direction X. In addition, the thickness of the part of the body portion 135 adjacent to the elongated through hole 135a is greater than the thickness of other parts of the body portion 135. By increasing the thickness near the elongated through hole 135a, the body portion 135 can improve its structural strength and durability when subjected to tensile force.

[0038] Please refer to Figures 4 and 5. In some embodiments, the first limiting portion 153 is further used to limit and support the pulling unit 130 in a second direction (e.g., the second axial direction Y) perpendicular to the force application direction X1. The first limiting portion 153 includes limiting arms 153a extending on opposite sides of the third axial direction Z. The width W3 of the limiting arms 153a is greater than the width W4 of a portion of the elongated through hole 135a. Therefore, the limiting arms 153a can limit and support the pulling unit 130 from below the body portion 135, so that the body portion 135 can move in a straight line along the force application direction X1 without deviating along the second axial direction Y. In addition, the width W5 of another portion of the elongated through hole 135a is substantially equal to or slightly greater than the width W3 of the limiting arms 153a, so that the elongated through hole 135a of the pulling unit 130 can be engaged or disengaged from the first limiting portion 153.

[0039] Please refer to Figures 1 through 3. In some embodiments disclosed herein, for ease of observation or assembly, the housing 150 may include a window 155 aligned with the first limiting portion 153 in a second direction (e.g., the second axis Y) perpendicular to the direction of force application X1. When the pulling unit 130 is correctly assembled within the housing 150, the window 155 will be aligned in the second axis Y and expose at least a portion of the body portion 135. Conversely, if the pulling unit 130 is not assembled within the housing 150, the window 155 will expose the first limiting portion 153. This allows the user to determine whether the pulling unit 130 is properly assembled within the housing 150 by observing the window 155. Specifically, the window 155 may be U-shaped, comprising two window portions extending parallel to each other, which are respectively aligned with opposite sides of the limiting arm 153a in the second axis Y. When the pull unit 130 is assembled into the housing 150, the user can observe that the pull unit 130 covers the opposite sides of the limiting arm 153a, thereby confirming that the pull unit 130 has been properly assembled into the housing 150.

[0040] Please refer to Figures 1 through 3 simultaneously. In some embodiments disclosed herein, the housing 150 includes a second limiting portion 157. The pulling unit 130 includes an assembly portion 137 connected to the front side of the drive portion 133. The assembly portion 137 and the second limiting portion 157 are interconnected, and the drive portion 133 can move to a limited extent relative to the assembly portion 137 (e.g., through the elastic deformation of the assembly portion 137 itself). In practical applications, if the pulling unit 130 is made of an elastic material, because the width of the drive portion 133 is smaller than the width of the assembly portion 137, when the user applies force to the pulling unit 130, the deformation of the assembly portion 137 is relatively small (and may even be imperceptible), while the drive portion 133 undergoes greater deformation and movement, thereby driving the transmission portion 113 to move. When the external force is released, the pulling unit 130 automatically resets the drive portion 133 and the assembly portion 137 by virtue of its own elasticity. Furthermore, the assembly portion 137 is essentially L-shaped (viewed from the side of the assembly portion 137), and a portion of the assembly portion 137 can extend and be inserted into the housing 150 (e.g., between the bottom surface of the first housing 152 and the top surface of the docking channel 156), thereby allowing the assembly portion 137 to be securely fixed to the housing 150.

[0041] Furthermore, the function of the second limiting portion 157 includes at least limiting and stopping the assembly portion 137 in the force application direction X1. The second limiting portion 157 includes a stop surface 157a and a limiting post 157b. The stop surface 157a extends substantially perpendicular to the first axial direction X (force application direction X1), while the limiting post 157b extends in a direction opposite to the force application direction X1. Correspondingly, the assembly portion 137 includes an assembly hole 137a through which the limiting post 157b extends and engages. Through this configuration, the limiting post 157b can restrict the movement of the assembly portion 137 in a planar direction (e.g., a planar direction including the second axial direction Y and the third axial direction Z), while the stop surface 157a contacts and blocks the assembly portion 137 in the force application direction X1. By means of the coordinated action of the second limiting part 157 and the assembly part 137, the movement of the pulling unit 130 relative to the housing 150 can be effectively controlled, thereby ensuring that the drive part 133 moves precisely in the expected direction.

[0042] In some embodiments, the second limiting part 157 includes two limiting posts 157b with an appearance resembling bull horns. The limiting posts 157b can be curved or straightened, and the elastic fixing unit 110 is disposed between these two limiting posts 157b. Two assembly holes 137a of the pulling unit 130 pass through and connect to the two limiting posts 157b. The driving part 133 is located between the two limiting posts 157b, and its movement direction is guided by the extension direction of the two limiting posts 157b, thereby precisely driving the elastic fixing unit 110 to operate. This design of double limiting posts 157b not only provides more stable support and positioning for the elastic fixing unit 110 but also helps reduce shaking or unexpected displacement during operation, thus ensuring the accuracy and reliability of movement.

[0043] Please refer to Figure 3. In some embodiments disclosed herein, the force-applying portion 131 may include a plurality of protruding ribs 131a extending parallel to each other. The design of the protruding ribs 131a helps to improve the user's feel, grip stability, and ease of operation.

[0044] Please refer to Figure 8, which is a perspective view of the wire connector 100 in some other embodiments of this disclosure. According to these embodiments, the force-applying portion 131 includes two adjacent force-applying holes 131b. The user can insert two fingers into these two force-applying holes 131b and apply pulling force. This action can further drive the pulling unit 130 to effectively and securely control the operation of the elastic fixing unit 110. Furthermore, the force-applying portion 131 may also have an annular thickened layer at the edge of the force-applying holes 131b. This design ensures that the user will not feel discomfort when inserting two fingers into the force-applying holes 131b, thereby optimizing the experience of operating the pulling unit 130.

[0045] Please refer to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the cable terminal connector 100a in some other embodiments disclosed herein. The cable terminal connector 100a is generally the same as the cable terminal connector 100 (refer to Figure 1), the main difference being that the cable terminal can be mounted to the cable terminal connector 100a from the side. In this embodiment, the first housing 152 and the second housing 154 of the cable terminal connector 100a together form a through hole 158 located on the side to effectively receive the cable terminal.

[0046] Please refer to Figure 10. Figure 10 is a perspective view of the cable terminal connector 100b in some other embodiments of this disclosure. The cable terminal connector 100b is generally the same as the cable terminal connector 100 (refer to Figure 1), the main difference being that the cable terminal can be assembled to the cable terminal connector 100b from the rear. In this embodiment, the first housing 152 and the second housing 154 of the cable terminal connector 100b together form a rearward through-hole 158 to effectively receive the cable terminal.

[0047] Please refer to Figures 11 and 12. Figure 11 is a perspective view of the wire connector 200 in some embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 12 is a perspective view of the wire connector 200 in Figure 11 from another perspective. The wire connector 200 includes a resilient fixing unit 210, a pulling unit 230, and a housing 250. The resilient fixing unit 210 is connected to the housing 250, while the pulling unit 230 is movably connected to the housing 250 and engages with the connecting portion 215 of the resilient fixing unit 210. The pulling unit 230 can move relative to the housing 250 to a limited extent. Through the actuation of the pulling unit 230, the resilient fixing unit 210 can be moved to achieve a release function. For example, the wire connector 200 can fix the hook portion A1 of the mating connector A (see Figure 2) through the resilient fixing unit 210 to form a connector assembly. The various components of the wire connector 200 will be described in detail below.

[0048] The elastic fixing unit 210 includes a holding portion 211, a transmission portion 213, and a connecting portion 215 located between the holding portion 211 and the transmission portion 213. The holding portion 211 and the transmission portion 213 are connected to the connecting portion 215, and the holding portion 211 and the transmission portion 213 can move relative to each other about the connecting portion 215. Furthermore, the transmission portion 213 and the holding portion 211 are interconnected; therefore, movement of the transmission portion 213 will guide the holding portion 211 to move accordingly, and vice versa. In some embodiments disclosed herein, the elastic fixing unit 210 can be a seesaw-like assembly, wherein the holding portion 211 and the transmission portion 213 are located at opposite ends of the seesaw-like assembly, and the connecting portion 215 can support such a seesaw assembly. Furthermore, the retaining part 211 is detachably connected to the docking connector A (see Figure 2). The retaining part 211 may include a fixing hook, and the docking connector A includes a corresponding hook part A1. The retaining part 211 is used to move toward or away from the docking connector A, so that the fixing hook is engaged or released from the hook part A1. In some other embodiments disclosed herein, the elastic fixing unit 210 is a latch or buckle, and the retaining part 211 and the transmission part 213 are the two ends of the latch or buckle that move relative to each other. The user can use the transmission part 213 to make the retaining part 211 engage or disengage the hook part A1 (see Figure 2).

[0049] The pulling unit 230 is a pull strap connected to the connecting part 215. The pulling unit 230 includes a force-applying part 231, a driving part 233, and an assembly part 237, wherein the driving part 233 is connected between the force-applying part 231 and the assembly part 237. The force-applying part 231 is configured for the user to apply force, causing the pulling unit 230 to move generally along the force-applying direction X1. As the pulling unit 230 moves, the driving part 233 moves toward the transmission part 213 of the elastic fixing unit 210, thereby pulling the transmission part 213 and the holding part 211 to move relative to each other around the connecting part 215. The assembly part 237 includes an assembly hole 237a that connects to the elastic fixing unit 210. The inner wall of the assembly hole 237a is connected to the connecting part 215, wherein the connecting part 215 can be used to limit the assembly part 237 to prevent the pulling unit 230 from separating from the elastic fixing unit 210 when it continues to move along the force-applying direction X1. Furthermore, the force-applying part 231 may include a plurality of protruding ribs 231a extending parallel to each other to facilitate user operation. However, the protruding ribs 231a may be replaced by two adjacent force-applying holes 131b (see Figure 8), and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0050] The housing 250 is connected to the elastic fixing unit 210, and the pulling unit 230 is movably connected to the housing 250, allowing for limited movement relative to the housing 250. The housing 250 provides structural support, protection, and positioning for the internal components of the wire connector 200. In some embodiments disclosed herein, the housing 250 further includes a first housing 252, a second housing 254, and a plurality of mating channels 256 (e.g., fixed together by locking or clamping means), wherein the first housing 252 and the second housing 254 together form a side-mounted through hole 258 to effectively accommodate cable terminals, and the contact terminals of the cable terminals can be disposed in the mating channels 256. Specifically, the mating channels 256 can be integrally formed on the first housing 252 or the second housing 254. However, the mating channels 256 can also be components independent of the first housing 252 and the second housing 254. In other embodiments disclosed herein, the through hole 258 may be located on the side, above or below the housing 250, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0051] Please refer to Figures 13 and 14. Figures 13 and 14 are perspective cross-sectional views of the wire connector 200 in Figure 11, respectively, showing different states. In some embodiments disclosed herein, the drive unit 233 is capable of elastic deformation under force, and the drive unit 233 is further used to move along a first direction D1 that is not parallel to the force application direction X1. For example, the first direction D1 may be inclined to or perpendicular to the force application direction X1, and the elastic deformation of the drive unit 233 along the first direction D1 can effectively press down the transmission unit 213 to achieve the unlocking function of lifting or moving the retaining unit 211.

[0052] Specifically, the drive unit 233 can be substantially L-shaped. The front end of this L-shaped drive unit 233 can be located above the transmission unit 213, while the rear end of the L-shaped drive unit 233 is located on the side of the transmission unit 213 facing away from the retaining part 211. This configuration helps the drive unit 233 apply force to the transmission unit 213. When the user pulls the pulling unit 230 along the force application direction X1, the drive unit 233 will elastically deform into a relatively flat state along the first direction D1, thereby driving the transmission unit 213 and the retaining part 211 to move.

[0053] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the housing 250 may include a limiting portion 253 to guide and restrict the movement of the pulling unit 230. Correspondingly, the pulling unit 230 may include an elongated through hole 235 extending along the force application direction X1. The limiting portion 253 of the housing 250 is movably engaged with the elongated through hole 235 of the pulling unit 230. When the pulling unit 230 moves along the force application direction X1 to a preset position (e.g., the position where the end of the elongated through hole 235 contacts the limiting portion 253), the limiting portion 253 will abut against the pulling unit 230, thereby restricting the movement of the pulling unit 230 relative to the housing 250 in the force application direction X1.

[0054] Please refer to Figures 11 and 12 simultaneously. In some embodiments disclosed herein, the limiting portion 253, in addition to restricting the movement of the pulling unit 230 in the force application direction X1, is also used to limit the pulling unit 230 in a second direction perpendicular to the force application direction X1 (e.g., the second axial direction Y). This design helps ensure that the pulling unit 230 maintains its intended movement trajectory during force-induced movement, preventing unnecessary deviation. Specifically, the first limiting portion 253 is substantially T-shaped and includes limiting arms 253a extending on opposite sides along the third axial direction Z, wherein the width W7 of the limiting arms 253a is greater than the width W8 of the elongated through hole 235. Therefore, the limiting arms 253a can limit the pulling unit 230 from above, which helps the pulling unit 230 move in a straight line along the force application direction X1 and prevents the pulling unit 230 from moving along the second axial direction Y.

[0055] Overall, the connector design disclosed herein significantly improves the disassembly process, allowing users to easily separate the wire-end connector from the mating connector without complex operations. This not only greatly improves work efficiency but also effectively reduces the risk of connector damage due to misoperation. Furthermore, this disclosure utilizes a flexible fixing unit to generate a special actuation, ensuring effortless, simple, and highly reliable operation during both fixing and releasing the mating connector. In addition, various components (such as limiting or guiding parts) effectively guide the pulling unit to move accurately along a predetermined path, thereby comprehensively improving operational stability and extending the connector's lifespan.

[0056] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure shall be included within the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0057] 10: Connector assembly 100, 100a, 100b, 200: Wire connectors 110, 210: Flexible fixing unit 111, 211: Fixed section 111a: Hook body 113, 213: Transmission unit 113a: Protruding body 113b: Extension 115, 215: Connecting parts 130, 230: Pulling unit 131, 231: Force application unit 131a, 231a: Convex ribs 131b: Force application hole 133, 233: Drive unit 133a: Drive hole 135: Ontology part 135a, 235: Through hole 137, 237: Assembly Department 137a, 237a: Assembly holes 150, 250: Housing 151: Guiding Department 152, 252: First shell 153,253: Limiting part 153a, 253a: Limiting arm 154, 254: Second shell 155: Window 156, 256: Docking channels 157: Limiting part 157a: Stop surface 157b: Limiting post 158, 258: Through holes A: Connector A1: Hook radical C: Cutting line D1: First Direction W1, W2, W3, W4: Width W5, W7, W8: Width X: First axis X1: Direction of force applied Y: Second axis Z: Third axis

[0058] Domestic storage information (please note in order of storage institution, date, and number) none Overseas storage information (please note in the order of storage country, institution, date, and number) none

Claims

1. A connector assembly, comprising: A flexible fixing unit has a holding part and a transmission part, wherein the holding part and the transmission part are interconnected; a housing is connected to the flexible fixing unit; and a pulling unit is movably connected to the housing, having a force-applying part and a driving part, wherein the driving part is connected to the transmission part, the force-applying part is configured to receive force and drive the pulling unit to move along a force-applying direction, such that the driving part further drives the transmission part and the holding part to move, wherein the housing includes a guide part, the guide part is configured to guide the driving part to move along a first direction that is inclined and not perpendicular to the force-applying direction.

2. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the elastic fixing unit is a type of seesaw assembly, and the retaining portion and the transmission portion are the two ends of the type of seesaw assembly that move relative to each other.

3. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the transmission portion includes a protrusion extending substantially perpendicular to the direction of force application, and the drive portion includes a drive hole engaging the protrusion.

4. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 3, wherein the protrusion includes an extension extending along opposite sides thereof, the width of the extension being greater than the width of the drive hole.

5. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing includes a first limiting portion, the pull unit includes an elongated through hole extending along the direction of force, and the first limiting portion is relatively movably engaged with the elongated through hole and configured to resist the pull unit when the pull unit moves along the direction of force to a preset position.

6. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein the first limiting portion is configured to limit the pull unit in a second direction perpendicular to the direction of force application.

7. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein the housing includes a window, wherein the window is aligned with the first limiting portion in a second direction perpendicular to the direction of force application.

8. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pull unit further includes an assembly portion connected to the drive portion, and the housing includes a second limiting portion engaging the assembly portion, the second limiting portion being configured to limit the assembly portion in a planar direction perpendicular to the direction of force application.

9. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein the second limiting portion includes at least one limiting post extending opposite to the direction of force application, and the assembly portion includes at least one assembly hole, wherein the at least one limiting post engages with the at least one assembly hole.

10. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the force-applying portion includes a plurality of ribs extending parallel to each other.

11. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the force-applying portion includes two adjacent force-applying holes.

12. A connector assembly, comprising: An elastic fixing unit has a holding part, a transmission part, and a connecting part located between the holding part and the transmission part, the transmission part and the holding part being interconnected; a housing for fixing the elastic fixing unit through the connecting part; and a pulling unit movably connected to the housing and engaging the connecting part, wherein the pulling unit has a force-applying part and a driving part, the force-applying part being configured to receive force and drive the pulling unit to move along a force-applying direction, such that the driving part moves toward the transmission part and pulls the transmission part and the holding part to move, wherein the driving part is configured to move by elastic deformation along a first direction that is inclined and not perpendicular to the force-applying direction.

13. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 12, wherein the drive portion is L-shaped and partially located above the transmission portion, and one end of the drive portion is located on the side of the transmission portion opposite to the retaining portion.

14. The connector assembly of claim 12, wherein the housing includes a limiting portion, the pull unit includes an elongated through hole extending along the direction of force, and the limiting portion is relatively movably engaged with the elongated through hole and configured to resist the pull unit when the pull unit moves along the direction of force to a preset position.

15. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 14, wherein the limiting portion is configured to limit the pull unit in a second direction perpendicular to the direction of force application.

16. The connector assembly as claimed in claim 15, wherein the limiting portion is substantially T-shaped.

17. The connector assembly of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the resilient fixing unit is a latch or a buckle, the retaining portion and the driving portion are the two ends of the latch or buckle that move relative to each other, and wherein the pulling unit is a pull strap.

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