Compressible Locking Member for Secure Connector Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors often inadvertently disengage from power sources, risking damage to electronic devices and potential user injury due to lack of a secure locking mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A connector with a locking mechanism that includes a compressible locking member and a release member, where the locking member imposes a force on the inlet blade to secure the connector and the release member allows disengagement, ensuring the connector remains locked until intentionally released.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a connector is designed without a locking mechanism for easy engagement, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to inadvertent disengagement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to automatically engage with the inlet blade when the connector is fully inserted, without requiring any additional action from the user. The compressible portion of the locking member self-activates upon insertion to create the locking force, making the system self-locking and eliminating the need for separate locking operations
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member utilizes compression as a physical parameter change to transition from a non-locking state during insertion to a locked state when compressed against the inlet blade. The compressible portion changes its dimensional parameter under compression, creating contact points that generate friction and normal forces to maintain the locked position
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent disengagement, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the connector housing as an integrated component rather than a separate assembly. The locking member is formed as part of the housing structure, combining the housing and locking functions into a single unified component, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member incorporates a compressible portion that acts as a flexible element within the rigid housing structure. This flexible section allows the locking member to deform under compression and return to its original shape, providing the locking action without requiring complex mechanical linkages or multiple moving parts
3Reliability
If the opening in the locking member is made small to create contact points for locking, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation worsens due to insertion difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member transitions dynamically between two states: a compressed state during insertion where the opening is effectively larger, and an uncompressed locked state where the opening is smaller and creates contact points. The compressible portion allows the structure to adapt its geometry based on the operational phase, facilitating both easy insertion and secure locking
Solution Approach 2:
The compressible portion of the locking member acts as a cushioning element that deforms during insertion to accommodate the inlet blade passing through the opening. This pre-designed compliance absorbs the insertion force and allows the blade to pass through the restricted opening without requiring excessive force or precision
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 solution provides a secure connection that prevents accidental disengagement, thereby protecting electronic devices and users from potential harm while allowing controlled disconnection.
Implementation Method 1
The locking member comprises a compressible portion having an opening that is sufficiently sized to allow an inlet blade to slide through under pressure, but sufficiently small to form at least one contact point between the inlet blade and the compressible portion in its uncompressed state so as to impose the force on the inlet blade
Data Source
AI summary
A connector is configured to be removably engaged with and locked to an inlet. The connector comprises a locking member and a release member. The locking member is configured to impose a force on an inlet blade so as to lock the connector to the inlet when the connector is fully inserted into the inlet. The locking member comprises a compressible portion having an opening that is sufficiently large to allow the inlet blade to slide through under pressure but sufficiently small to form at least one contact point between the inlet blade and the compressible portion in its uncompressed state so as to impose the force on the inlet blade. The release member is configured to release the force imposed by the locking member on the inlet blade so as to disengage the connector from the inlet.