Barbed Connector Terminal Structure for Compact Pre-Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors with small sizes face challenges in pre-assembling the end cap with the body and connector terminal due to insufficient space, leading to instability in the connection.
Innovation Solution
The connector terminal features a clamping part with multiple triangular first barb structures and a connecting part with triangular second barb structures, which provide an interference fit with the connector housing, enhancing retention force and allowing for pre-assembly without modifying the terminal's dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a groove is added to the end cap for pre-assembly with the body, then the pre-assembly capability is improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the pre-assembly guidance function from the end cap groove and relocates it to the connector terminal itself through the barb structure arrangement. The barbs are positioned to engage with corresponding features on the body, providing alignment and guidance during pre-assembly without requiring additional structural elements on the end cap.
Solution Approach 2:
The barb structure serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical retention through interference fit, enables pre-assembly guidance through strategic positioning, and eliminates the need for separate guiding features. This multi-functionality reduces overall device complexity while maintaining pre-assembly capability.
2Volume of moving object
If the connector size is reduced, then the compactness is improved, but the retention force between components decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating retention features (barbs) at specific locations on the clamping part where they can maximize engagement with the body. The barbs are strategically positioned to provide optimal mechanical interlocking in a compact configuration, ensuring sufficient retention force despite the reduced overall connector size.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector components are designed with interference fit characteristics that create a composite mechanical system. The barbed clamping part interacts with the body through controlled interference, creating a unified assembly that maintains strength despite compact dimensions.
3Force
If barb structures are added to both ends of the clamping part, then the retention force is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping part is segmented into functional zones: the first end with first barbs for engagement with one set of features on the body, and the second end with second barbs for engagement with another set of features. This segmentation allows each barb set to be optimized for its specific engagement function while maintaining manufacturability through standard forming processes.
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 design improves the retention force between the end cap, body, and connector terminal, ensuring a stable connection and preventing detachment, while simplifying the structure and reducing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
the barb structure 122 of the connector terminal 12 has an interference fit with the body 13
Implementation Method 2
provide an interference fit with the connector housing, enhancing retention force
Data Source
AI summary
A connector terminal includes a clamping part and a contacting part. A side of a first end of the clamping part has a first barb structure and a pair of sides of a second end of the clamping part each have a second barb structure. The first end is opposite to the second end. The contacting part extends along a first direction from the second end of the clamping part and electrically contacts a terminal paired with the connector terminal.