Quick-Assembly Cable Connector with Cam Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional two-part cable connectors require significant insertion force and often necessitate tools or deformation of the support wall, making them difficult to assemble and disassemble quickly without tools, especially when connecting cables in confined spaces like aircraft.
Innovation Solution
A two-part connector design featuring a movable drawer with a ramp mechanism that allows for axial movement and locking without tools, using guide portions and elastic lugs to secure the connection without deforming the support wall, enabling easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional locking means (metal screws with threads) are used to secure connector parts, then reliable locking is achieved, but assembly becomes tedious and requires tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional threaded screw mechanism with a cam-actuated locking system. The cam profile converts rotational motion into linear locking force, eliminating the need for threaded fasteners and multi-step assembly procedures while maintaining secure locking capability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic cam-based system that can be quickly engaged and disengaged. The cam profile allows for rapid transformation between locked and unlocked states through simple rotational motion, significantly improving assembly speed
2Strength
If significant insertion force is applied to fit connector parts, then secure connection is achieved, but the support wall may be deformed or the base part may fall
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates preliminary alignment features and a progressive engagement mechanism. The cam profile is designed to gradually increase locking force after initial positioning, allowing the connector to self-align and engage without requiring excessive insertion force that could damage the support wall
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism acts as an intermediary that transforms the insertion motion into controlled locking force. This intermediate mechanism distributes the loading more evenly and prevents direct transmission of excessive force to the support wall, thereby avoiding deformation
3Ease of manufacture
If access to both sides of the support wall is required to exert insertion force, then proper connector assembly is achieved, but this is rarely possible in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into modular components with the cam mechanism integrated into one part. This segmentation allows the connector to be assembled from a single side of the wall, as the cam-actuated locking system can be engaged unilaterally without requiring access to both sides
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring force application from both sides of the wall, the design inverts the approach by using a cam mechanism that generates locking force unilaterally. The cam profile converts single-sided rotational motion into bidirectional locking action, enabling assembly in confined spaces
Data Source
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AI summary
The assembly has a plug part (51) including a connection shell (2) surrounding an end of a bundle of cables (4), and a base part (52) including another connection shell (3) surrounding an end of another bundle of cables (5). The plug and base parts include notches intended to guide two locking elements relative to each other. A drawer (7) is movable in a locking direction (y) to transmit a locking force to bring the plug and base parts axially closer to each other until the axial distance corresponds to a locked position of the connection assembly.