Axially Movable Electrical Connector Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical connectors in hybrid computing devices face reliability and safety issues due to movement-induced loosening and difficulty in engaging/disengaging mechanical locking methods, which are also disruptive to industrial design.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector system featuring a locking plug with a lock actuator, strain relief, and an exterior mating surface that is axially movable, utilizing a biasing element to secure the connection and prevent axial movement, incorporating a locking mechanism that can be actuated for easy disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional friction fits are used for electrical connectors, then the device structure is simple, but the connection reliability deteriorates due to loosening during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a dynamic locking mechanism that transitions from an engaged locked state to a disengaged unlocked state. The locking member includes a locking surface that engages with a corresponding surface on the plug, creating a positive mechanical lock that prevents loosening during device movement while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member (spring) provides self-service by automatically maintaining the locking member in the engaged position during normal operation, and enabling automatic release when force is applied to the actuator. This eliminates the need for additional actuators or complex control mechanisms
2Reliability
If mechanical locking methods are used, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in engaging and disengaging
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a locking member with locking surface, a biasing member for automatic engagement, and an actuator for controlled disengagement. This segmentation allows the connector to maintain reliable locking while providing user-friendly operation through the externally accessible actuator
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves as an intermediary between the user and the locking mechanism. It translates user input (pushing force) into the disengagement of the locking member from the locked position, enabling easy operation without requiring direct manipulation of the locking surfaces themselves
3Reliability
If mechanical locking methods are used, then connection reliability is improved, but industrial design deteriorates due to disruption to aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is positioned within the recess of the connector housing, creating a nested arrangement where the control element is integrated into the overall form. This allows the locking mechanism to provide reliable mechanical engagement while maintaining a clean, uninterrupted exterior surface that preserves industrial design aesthetics
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
Enhances the reliability and safety of electrical connections in hybrid devices by maintaining power continuity and ease of use, while being non-disruptive to industrial design.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing element is configured to bias the exterior mating surface axially toward the electrical plug
Implementation Method 2
The strain relief is positioned circumferentially about the cable
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector includes a locking plug, a lock actuator, a strain relief, and an exterior mating surface. The locking plug includes a locking mechanism and the lock actuator is coupled to the locking mechanism. The strain relief is coupled to the locking plug and the exterior mating surface is coupled to the locking plug and axially moveable relative to the locking plug to move the lock actuator.