Amplifier Fast Connector Tool-Free Assembly Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional cable connectors for amplifiers require tools for assembly and are time-consuming, especially during installations that involve multiple connectors, as they rely on screw terminals which need to be tightened securely.
Innovation Solution
A fast connector design with a housing featuring movable jaw members and a locking sleeve that allows for tool-free assembly, using elastic members to bias jaw members open for easy cable insertion and wedges to secure the cables in place, eliminating the need for tools and simplifying the connection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screw terminals are used for cable connection, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but assembly requires tools and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs movable jaw members that can transition between open and closed positions. During assembly, the jaws are open to receive cables easily, then close automatically or via simple actuation to secure the connection. This dynamic mechanism eliminates the need for screw tightening while maintaining reliable electrical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design allows the cable to be inserted and secured without external tools. The jaw members are configured to automatically grip and hold the cable in place through their mechanical structure, enabling the connection to service itself without requiring screwdrivers or other assembly tools.
2Strength
If screw terminals are used for cable connection, then secure cable retention is achieved, but assembly process becomes complex and tool-dependent
Solution Approach 1:
The movable jaw members provide a dynamic clamping action that secures cables firmly. The jaws can open for easy cable insertion and close to apply securing force, transforming a complex multi-step screw tightening process into a simple single-action mechanism that maintains strong cable retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the complex screw tightening operation from the connection process. By replacing the screw terminal mechanism with movable jaws that close via simple actuation or spring force, the design removes the need for threaded fasteners and tool-dependent assembly steps while preserving cable securing capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors are installed, then complete system connectivity is achieved, but installation time accumulates significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Each connector unit features dynamic movable jaws that can be opened simultaneously to receive multiple cables, then closed in a single motion to secure all connections. This eliminates the need for sequential screw tightening operations, allowing installers to work through multiple connectors much faster while achieving complete system connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connectors are designed to self-secure cables without requiring repeated tool interventions. Once the jaw mechanism is actuated, it automatically maintains the connection, allowing installers to move quickly between multiple connection points without the cumulative time penalty of traditional screw terminal assembly.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a secure, tool-free assembly method for cable connections, reducing installation time and simplifying the process of connecting multiple cables to amplifiers, while maintaining a reliable attachment.
Implementation Method 1
The first movable jaw member is biased away from the first fixed jaw member by a first elastic member
Implementation Method 2
a first wedge coupled with the slide member with a first ramp surface aligned with the first movable jaw member in the first direction
Data Source
AI summary
An amplifier connector including a housing having a first end with an aperture for receiving a bare cable end into a rib-receiving space between a pair of inner jaw members. The jaw members can be clamped on the cable end by moving a sliding sleeve with a wedge from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration. A second end of the connector includes electrical contacts coupled with the pair of jaw members.