Threaded Connector Cap Retention Feature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medical device connectors with cap-style connections often experience unreliable clamping and poor conductivity due to unintended cap removal, leading to potential system failures when used repeatedly.
Innovation Solution
A cable assembly connector design featuring a cap that threadably engages a connector body, allowing for adjustable pin opening diameter through movement along a longitudinal axis, incorporating a jaw portion with slits and angled surfaces for secure clamping, and an annular space for axial confinement, preventing cap removal and ensuring a secure connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cap is made removable for connection and disconnection, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to unintended removal
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a dynamic retention mechanism where the cap can be freely removed during insertion but becomes mechanically locked in place during operation. The retention feature includes a retention protrusion on the cap that engages with a retention cavity in the connector body, creating a one-way locking mechanism that prevents unintended removal while allowing intentional disconnection.
2Strength
If the cap uses threaded engagement, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single integrated retention feature. The retention protrusion and cavity combination provides both mechanical retention to prevent cap removal and structural guidance for proper alignment. This integrated approach eliminates the need for separate retention mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining connection strength.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the cap is designed for repeated use, then duration of action is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to cap loss
Solution Approach 1:
The retention feature is pre-configured in both the cap and connector body to engage automatically upon cap installation. The retention protrusion aligns with and engages the retention cavity during the initial connection process, ensuring that the cap is securely retained from the outset. This preliminary engagement prevents cap loss during repeated use and maintains reliable electrical conduction throughout the connector's service life.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable assembly and associated connector are provided. The cable assembly includes a connector and a length of cable for conducting an electrical current. The connector includes a connector body and a cap threadably engaging the connector body. The cap and connector body each include abutment surfaces arranged to interact with one another to provide a retention feature such that the cap is not inadvertently removed from the connector body.