Connector Cable Harness Automated Terminal Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for composite cables are not suitable for automated connection of terminals, requiring manual insertion of signal and power supply lines, which hampers manufacturing efficiency in cable harness production.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a first member with a flat-plate base and holding portions for simultaneous accommodation of a first cable and two second cables, along with a second member that holds terminals with connecting portions, allowing for automated connection by positioning the cables and terminals in a manner that facilitates simultaneous accommodation and connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the connector uses separate first and second cable holding portions for signal lines and power supply lines, then the connector can accommodate composite cables with multiple cable types, but the connector requires manual insertion of cables one by one which reduces manufacturing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple cable holding portions (first cable holding portion for signal line, second cable holding portion for power supply line) into a single integrated cable holding portion that can accommodate multiple cable types simultaneously. This allows the composite cable to be inserted as a single unit rather than requiring separate manual insertion of each cable type, thereby improving manufacturing efficiency while maintaining the capability to handle multiple cable types.
2Reliability
If the connector requires insertion of signal lines and power supply lines one by one into separate holding portions, then each cable type can be securely held, but automated connection becomes difficult which hampers manufacturing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate cable holding portions into a single integrated cable holding portion that can accommodate signal lines, power supply lines, and other cables simultaneously. This integration allows automated insertion devices to insert the entire composite cable in one operation rather than requiring sequential manual insertion of each cable type, thereby enabling automated connection while maintaining secure holding of each individual cable type through the integrated structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector is attachable with a composite cable and is connectable with a mating connector having a mating contact portion. The composite cable has at least one cable set which comprises a first cable and two second cables. The connector has a first member, a plurality of terminals and a second member. The first member is attachable with the composite cable. The plurality of terminals include at least one terminal set which comprises a first terminal and two second terminals. Each of the terminals has a contact portion, a held portion and a connecting portion. The connecting portion is connected with the composite cable when the connector is attached with the composite cable. In the at least one terminal set, the connecting portion of the first terminal is positioned between the connecting portions of the second terminals in a horizontal direction. The second member is combined with the first member.