Angled Locking Surface Connector Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors with a locking structure that relies on a horizontal wall for retention are prone to easy release, necessitating tape winding for secure holding, which increases cost and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a block-shaped fitting-side component with an angled locking surface and a lock projection on the inner surface of the receptacle, combined with reinforcing features, enhances the holding force and operability by preventing easy deformation and facilitating easy insertion and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a horizontal wall is used for locking, then the locking structure is simple, but the holding force is insufficient and the locked state is easily released
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the locking surface from a horizontal orientation to an angled orientation (inclined at 45 degrees or more relative to the separating direction). This asymmetric angular design creates a mechanical interlock where the lock projection engages with the locking surface at an angle, preventing easy outward displacement and significantly enhancing the holding force while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the geometric parameters of the locking structure by introducing an angled locking surface with a specific inclination angle (45 degrees or more). This parameter change transforms the locking mechanism from a simple horizontal engagement to an angled interlock that provides both simplicity and high holding force, resolving the contradiction between device complexity and reliability
2Reliability
If tape winding is used to secure the connector, then the holding force is sufficient, but the cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-locking mechanism where the angled locking surface and lock projection automatically engage when the fitting-side component is inserted into the receiving-side component. The geometry of the angled surfaces creates a self-retaining structure that provides sufficient holding force without requiring external fastening elements like tape, thereby eliminating additional steps and reducing overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the need for external fastening elements (tape) by incorporating the locking function directly into the connector structure itself. The lock projection and angled locking surface form an integrated locking system that provides the necessary holding force without requiring separate fastening components or processes
3Volume of stationary object
If the receptacle is made compact, then the overall size is reduced, but the locking mechanism may become less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a horizontal locking approach to an angled three-dimensional interlock. The lock projection engages with the locking surface at an angle, creating a mechanical interlock that maximizes holding force within a compact volume. This angular engagement in three-dimensional space allows reliable locking without requiring a larger receptacle structure
Data Source
AI summary
A connector is configured such that a fitting-side component (10) is fit into a receiving-side component (20). The fitting-side component (10) includes a block-shaped main body (11) and a lock (15) standing on an outer surface of the main body (11). The receiving-side component (20) includes a receptacle (21) open forward and externally fittable to the fitting-side component (10). A locking surface (16) is provided on a surface of the lock (15) facing an opening side of the receptacle (21) in a fitted state of the fitting-side component (10) and the receiving-side component (20). The locking surface (16) stands substantially at a right angle to a separating direction from the receiving-side component (20). The receiving-side component (20) includes a lock projection (35) projecting on an inner surface of the receptacle (21) for locking the locking surface 16 from the opening side of the receptacle (21).


