Circular Shield Connector Spring for Vibration-Stable Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing circular connectors with push-pull locking mechanisms lack reliability in securing electromagnetic shield connections due to the inadequate performance of spring washers, especially during vibrations.

Innovation Solution

A circular connector design featuring a spring element with multiple wings and locking elements that alternate circumferentially, ensuring secure locking and stable shield connection, utilizing a conductive material like copper-beryllium alloys, with wings designed for easy insertion and disconnection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If spring washers are used for shield connection in circular connectors with push-pull locking mechanism, then the shield connection can be established, but the reliability of the shield connection deteriorates during vibrations and operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshield connection reliabilityVSAvoidvibration impact

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The spring element is divided into multiple wings (at least two, preferably three to five) that alternate circumferentially with locking elements. This segmentation distributes the mechanical load and enhances stability during vibrations, preventing the shield connection from failing under dynamic conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The spring element combines both shield connection function and structural support function. The wings of the spring element alternate with locking elements around the circumference, merging the electromagnetic shielding function with the mechanical locking structure into a single integrated component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If multiple wings are added to the spring element to improve shield connection stability, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshield connection stabilityVSAvoidspring element structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring element with multiple wings serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electromagnetic shielding, maintains contact pressure against the shield, and structurally alternates with locking elements to enhance overall connector stability. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The number of wings is optimized to be at least two and preferably three to five, creating an optimal balance between stability and complexity. This parameter optimization ensures sufficient contact points for reliable shielding while avoiding excessive structural complexity that would increase manufacturing difficulty.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If the spring element is made of conductive material for shield connection, then the electromagnetic compatibility is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectromagnetic compatibilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The spring element merges the electrical conduction function with the mechanical spring function into a single component. By making the spring element itself conductive rather than using separate conductive contacts, the design reduces part count and simplifies manufacturing while ensuring reliable electromagnetic shielding.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The design provides a reliable and cost-effective shield connection that withstands vibrations, ensuring secure engagement with mating connectors while maintaining ease of use.

Implementation Method 1

The spring element is made of an electrically conductive material for connecting an electromagnetic shield

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

spring element...for connecting an electromagnetic shield...can be used reliably...withstands vibrations

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4136714B1Round plug connector comprising a shield connection

Publication Date: 2025.11.05 HARTING ELECTRIC STIFTUNG & CO KG

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AI summary

The invention relates to a round plug connector for detachably connecting lines, comprising at least one housing element for receiving at least one insulating body and at least one locking element for detachably connecting to a counter plug connector. The housing element also receives at least one circumferential spring element. The spring element is produced for connecting an electromagnetic shield made from an electrically conductive material and is characterised in that the spring element has at least one ring retained in a circumferential recess in the housing element and at least one substantially axial wing.