Axial Quick Connect Adapter for Cable Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional electronic cable connectors require repetitive twisting motions for locking and unlocking, leading to operator fatigue and injuries in high-volume applications, and do not provide a quicker or less cumbersome means of connection and disconnection.
Innovation Solution
A quick connect system using a radial compression spring and axial movement to lock and unlock cable connectors, replacing rotary locking mechanisms with an axial locking mechanism comprising a connector support collar, inner sleeve with slots and a spring seat channel, and an outer sleeve with protrusions that compress the spring to secure the connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional rotary locking mechanisms are used, then secure connection is achieved, but operator fatigue and injury occur due to repetitive twisting motions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional rotary locking mechanism by implementing an axial locking mechanism where the outer sleeve moves linearly along the longitudinal axis instead of rotating. This inversion changes the motion direction from rotational to axial, eliminating repetitive twisting while maintaining secure connection through the compression spring and protrusion-slot engagement system
2Reliability
If traditional rotary locking mechanisms are used, then connection security is maintained, but connection and disconnection time increases due to repetitive twisting actions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional rotary locking mechanism by implementing an axial locking mechanism where the outer sleeve moves linearly along the longitudinal axis instead of rotating. This inversion changes the motion direction from rotational to axial, eliminating repetitive twisting while maintaining secure connection through the compression spring and protrusion-slot engagement system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the rotary motion requirement from the locking mechanism, isolating the essential function of secure connection while removing the time-consuming twisting action. The axial movement mechanism achieves the same locking function without rotational motion, thereby reducing connection and disconnection time
3Reliability
If specific connectors are used based on system requirements, then performance requirements are met, but versatility is reduced as specific connectors must be used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing an axial locking mechanism that can be integrated with various connector types and applications. The adapter assembly provides a standardized interface that maintains performance requirements while enabling broader compatibility across different system configurations and connector specifications
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
This solution reduces operator fatigue and injury by allowing quicker connection and disconnection through axial movement, eliminating the need for repetitive rotational actions, while maintaining secure locking and unlocking of cable connectors.
Implementation Method 1
a radial compression spring supported in the spring seat channel of the inner sleeve, and operable between an uncompressed state and a compressed state. Upon connecting a first cable connector body to a second cable connector body, and in response to axial movement of the outer sleeve in a direction towards the radial compression spring
Implementation Method 2
the radial compression spring can be operable between an uncompressed state and a compressed state. Upon disconnecting the first cable connector body from the second cable connector body, the outer sleeve can be operable to move away from the radial compression spring in an unlocking direction, thereby unlocking the connection of the first cable connector body to the second cable connector body
Data Source
AI summary
A quick connect adapter is provided for locking together a pair of coupled or mated electronic cable connectors via axial movement of an outer sleeve of the quick connect adapter. The outer sleeve can comprise a plurality of protrusions formed inwardly about the outer sleeve. An inner sleeve can have a plurality of slots and a spring seat channel in open communication with the plurality of slots. A radial compression spring can be supported in the spring seat channel, and can be operable between an uncompressed state and a compressed state. Upon connecting a first cable connector body to a second cable connector body, and in response to axial movement of the outer sleeve in a direction towards the radial compression spring, the plurality of protrusions slide through the plurality of slots to engage and compress the radial compression spring, thus locking the connection of the first cable connector body to the second cable connector body.