Cable Connector Assembly With One-Way Locking Tightening Sleeve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable connector assemblies can be manually disassembled without tools, which is undesirable for applications requiring robustness and safety, especially in entertainment electronics and stage technology where cables with varying diameters need secure connections.
Innovation Solution
A cable connector assembly featuring a tightening sleeve with a unidirectional locking mechanism and a clamping sleeve, where the tightening sleeve is coaxially pushed over the clamping sleeve, and a locking mechanism prevents rotation beyond a specific degree, allowing for secure assembly and disassembly without manual tools, with additional features like tool carrier locations for precise torque application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a clamping sleeve with threaded connection is used to clamp the cable, then the cable can be securely clamped and tension relief is achieved, but the assembly can be manually disassembled without tools which is undesirable for robust applications
Solution Approach 1:
A tightening sleeve is introduced as an intermediary component between the user's manual operation and the clamping sleeve's threaded connection. The tightening sleeve includes a unidirectional locking mechanism that mediates the torque transmission, allowing assembly in one direction while preventing disassembly in the opposite direction, thus converting a reversible threaded connection into a secure, non-reversible connection without requiring additional tooling.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static threaded connection to a dynamic system with directional control. The locking pawl and ratchet teeth create a dynamic locking state during tightening that automatically engages to prevent reverse rotation, providing adaptive security based on the direction of applied force while maintaining ease of assembly.
2Manufacturing precision
If the tightening sleeve is made long to cover the entire clamping sleeve, then complete coverage and uniform tightening are achieved, but the device complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tightening sleeve is designed with varying functional zones along its length. The front region features the locking mechanism for secure engagement, the middle section provides torque transmission, and the rear portion tapers or reduces in complexity. This local differentiation of quality allows the sleeve to perform multiple functions (locking, tightening, positioning) without requiring uniform length throughout, reducing overall material usage while maintaining tightening precision where needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable connector assembly for electrical and/or optical cables and for connection to a complementary connector assembly. A housing for receiving the contact elements can be connected to a clamping sleeve via a threaded connection. A partially radially compressible clamping member surrounds and grips the cable at the latest when the threaded connection of the clamping sleeve and the housing is tightened. A tightening sleeve, having a length less than the clamping sleeve, is pushed coaxially over at least a portion of the clamping sleeve. A unidirectional locking mechanism interposed between the clamping sleeve and the tightening sleeve prevents a relative rotation of the tightening sleeve and the clamping sleeve in the tightening direction of the threaded connection between the clamping sleeve and the housing beyond a certain extent. A user can assemble the cable connector assembly manually, but can no longer open it without a tool.