Angled Release Mechanism for Secure Plug Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector parts are prone to damage and misuse, leading to device failure, short circuits, and cable fires when power or data cables are pulled excessively, as they are not designed for such stress and can result in partial or complete disconnection.
Innovation Solution
A plug part with a locking element that can be moved in two distinct directions, allowing for a non-destructive and reversible release mechanism, where the release direction is angled relative to the locking direction, utilizing a biasing element like springs or elastomers to provide different engagement characteristics for plugging and unplugging, ensuring secure connection and easy detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional locking mechanism is used in connector parts, then secure connection is achieved, but the connector cannot be released under misuse conditions without damaging the cable or device
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to be movable in at least two different directions (locking direction and release direction) rather than being fixed in a single locking position. This dynamic design allows the connector to adapt its response based on the direction and magnitude of applied forces, enabling automatic release when pull forces exceed a threshold while maintaining secure connection during normal use.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector incorporates a preliminary release mechanism that activates before cable damage can occur. When pull forces exceed the predetermined threshold, the locking element automatically moves to the release position, preventing the cable from being torn off or the contacts from being damaged by excessive force.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a release mechanism is added to allow cable pull-off, then misuse protection is achieved, but the connector may detach during normal use
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element has different engagement characteristics for plugging and unplugging operations. The geometry and biasing forces are designed so that significantly higher forces are required to move the locking element in the direction opposite to the locking direction (for release) compared to forces during normal plugging operations. This asymmetric design ensures stable connection during normal use while enabling release under misuse conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector utilizes a biasing element that provides different force characteristics in different directions. The biasing element is configured to exert stronger restoring forces in the locking direction to maintain secure connection, while allowing controlled movement in the release direction when sufficient force is applied, thereby changing the mechanical parameters of engagement based on operational conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the locking element can be moved in multiple directions, then selective release is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and release functions are merged into a single locking element rather than requiring separate mechanisms. The locking element simultaneously performs locking during normal operation and enables controlled release when misuse occurs, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall structure despite the multifunctional requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector employs a self-service release mechanism where the locking element automatically responds to excessive pull forces without requiring external actuation or complex control systems. The biasing element and geometric design enable the locking element to autonomously detect misuse conditions and transition to the release position, eliminating the need for additional sensors, actuators, or control circuitry.
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 angled release mechanism allows for secure connection with lower forces during assembly and easy detachment with higher forces during misuse, preventing damage and ensuring safe disconnection, thus enhancing the reliability and safety of the plug connection.
Implementation Method 1
the biasing element elastically biases the locking element in the locking direction towards the engagement position
Implementation Method 2
The locking element can be linearly displaced from the engaged position in a direction opposite to the locking direction into a further release position against the prestressing of the prestressing element
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~12
AI summary
Plug part (1) for connecting to a mating plug part (2), wherein the plug part (1) has at least one locking device (3) for locking the plug part (1) to the mating plug part (2), wherein the locking device (3) has at least one pretensioning element (4) and at least one locking element (5) for engaging a locking element receptacle (6) of the mating plug part (2) in an engagement position of the locking element (5), and the locking element (5) is elastically pretensioned by means of the pretensioning element (4) in a locking direction (7) towards the engagement position, and the locking element (5) is movable from the engagement position to a release position in a release direction (8) angled to the locking direction (7).