Adjustable Coding Rings in Electrical Connector Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector assemblies lack modularity in coding options, leading to potential incorrect connections and polarity issues.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector assembly with adjustable coding rings on each housing, allowing for multiple positioning options and ensuring correct alignment through complementary coding elements, preventing incorrect connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If coding elements are integrated into the housing structure, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and lack of modularity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The coding structure is segmented into separate coding rings that can be independently positioned and adjusted on each housing. These coding rings are distinct from the main housing body, allowing the coding function to be modularized while maintaining reliable connection through standardized engagement features.
Solution Approach 2:
The coding rings are designed to be adjustable and repositionable on the housings, providing dynamic coding configurations. This allows users to modify coding positions based on specific application requirements, enhancing versatility without compromising connection reliability through the standardized coding element engagement.
2Manufacturing precision
If fixed coding positions are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability and versatility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The coding rings can be adjusted to multiple predetermined positions on the housings, providing dynamic reconfigurability. Each coding ring maintains precise positioning at these predetermined locations while allowing users to select different configurations based on specific needs, thus combining manufacturing precision with adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coding structure is designed to support multiple coding configurations using the same basic components. The coding rings and housing are universally designed to work together in various positions, allowing a single connector assembly design to serve multiple applications with different coding requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If coding rings are provided separately from housings, then modularity and ease of adjustment are improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The coding rings are provided as separate components from the housings, enabling independent manufacturing, assembly, and adjustment. This segmentation allows users to assemble the connector system by first preparing the housings and then adding the coding rings in the desired positions, enhancing modularity while keeping individual components relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The coding rings can be positioned and secured on the housings before the final connection assembly is made. This preliminary positioning allows users to configure the coding scheme according to specific requirements before committing to the final assembly, providing flexibility without requiring complex integrated designs.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector assembly having a first housing having a first connection portion, and a second housing having a second connection portion. The first housing is connected with the second housing, the first connection portion and the second connection portion engage with each other. The first housing has further a first coding ring with a first coding element, wherein the position of the first coding ring regarding to the first housing can be adjusted in at least two determined positions. The second housing has further a second coding ring with a second coding element, wherein the position of the second coding ring regarding to the second housing can be adjusted in at least two determined positions. The first housing and the second housing are connectable only when the first coding ring and the second coding ring are located at the same determined position.