Angled Push-Pull Connector Assembly With Wrench-Flat Torque Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Angled connectors face challenges in assembly due to their angular shape, which complicates the application of strength and torque in different directions, and can be hindered by existing components or devices in the environment.

Innovation Solution

The angled connector features a unique design with an insertion section and an angled connector section, including key surface pairs and side surfaces that allow for easy assembly using a tool like a fork or mouth key, enabling the application of torque for a secure connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional connector assembly methods are used, then the connector can be assembled, but the angular shape causes forces and torques to act in different directions making assembly difficult and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assemblyVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into separate components: a plug-in section and an angled connector section that can be assembled together. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall assembly process by breaking down the complex angular connection into manageable parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A tool receiving area is introduced as an intermediary feature on the angled connector section. This recess specifically designed to receive a tool (such as a wrench or spanner) serves as a mediator that enables the application of assembly forces and torques in the correct directions, overcoming the difficulty posed by the angular shape.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If support areas are formed on connector components, then tools can be held for applying forces, but the support areas must be structurally feasible while enabling best force application

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetool applicationVSAvoidstructural feasibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The tool receiving area is created as a localized feature with specific geometric properties (recess shape, size, and position) that are optimized for tool engagement. This local modification provides the necessary structural support for tool application without compromising the overall strength and integrity of the angled connector section.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The tool receiving area utilizes the third dimension by creating a recess that extends into the connector body. This dimensional approach allows the tool to be applied from a specific direction while distributing forces through the structure in a manner that maintains structural feasibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the connector has an angular shape, then cable routing and plug-in directions can be separated, but forces and torques must be applied in different directions during assembly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecable routing flexibilityVSAvoidassembly ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The tool receiving area serves as a mediator that decouples the angular geometry from the assembly operation. By providing a dedicated interface for tool application, it allows forces and torques to be applied in the correct directions regardless of the angular orientation of the connector sections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The tool receiving area is pre-formed on the angled connector section during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation ensures that when assembly is performed, the tool can be immediately applied in the correct orientation without requiring additional setup or adjustment, thereby simplifying the assembly process despite the angular configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP4542790A1Angled connector and method for assembling an angled connector
Publication Date: 2025.04.23 YAMAICHI ELECTRONICS DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
  • EP4542790A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4542790A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4542790A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Angled connector (1), in particular an angled push-pull connector, comprising: an insertion section (10) for inserting the connector (1) in the direction of an insertion direction (E) into a complementary connector receptacle, and an angled connector section (30) with which the insertion section (10) can be connected, wherein the angled connector section (30) has a cable access opening (32) for inserting a cable (2) into the connector (1) along a cable guidance direction (K), wherein the cable guidance direction (K) is different from the insertion direction (E), the insertion section (10) is configured to hold a connector-side electrical contacting means (60) which is designed to connect the cable (2) to a complementary connector receptacle-side electrical contacting means, and the insertion section (10) has a first connecting means (80).which can be frictionally connected to a first connecting section (38) of the angled connector section (30), the first connecting element (80) having at least two first pairs of wrench flats (82), wherein a tool, in particular an open-end or open-end wrench, can be applied to each first pair of wrench flats (82), the angled connector section (30) having two opposing and substantially parallel side surfaces (48) to which a tool, in particular an open-end or open-end wrench, can be applied, and the first connecting element (80) can be frictionally connected to the first connecting section (38) by applying a torque via the first pairs of wrench flats (82) and the side surfaces (48).