Integrated Connector Coupling Element for Positioning and Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector devices require additional elements for ensuring and fixing the correct positioning between connector elements, complicating the connection process and increasing time and difficulty.
Innovation Solution
A coupling element with arched portions and locking means, including positioning projections and a closing mechanism, ensures correct relative positioning and fixation between connector elements without the need for additional external elements, providing a single solution for both functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a safety locking member is provided to prevent uncoupling between connector elements, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the presence of additional elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the elastic fastener and safety locking member into a single integrated coupling element. This coupling element includes a body with an elastic portion that can be deformed to engage with the first connector element, and a locking portion that automatically locks when the elastic portion returns to its original shape. This integration eliminates the need for separate safety locking members while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the elastic fastener for initial connection and the safety locking member for preventing uncoupling. The single element performs what previously required two separate components, reducing device complexity while ensuring reliable connection.
2Reliability
If a safety locking member is provided to prevent uncoupling, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates as operators must work on multiple elements sequentially
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the elastic fastener and safety locking member into one coupling element, the patent eliminates the need for operators to sequentially work on multiple elements. The single integrated element can be installed in one continuous action, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining the reliability benefits of both original components.
3Reliability
If additional elements are provided for positioning and fixation, then the reliability of positioning is improved, but the productivity deteriorates due to increased connection time
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of multiple functions into a single coupling element reduces the number of installation steps and the time required for connection. Operators no longer need to sequentially position and secure multiple separate elements, thereby improving productivity while maintaining accurate positioning through the integrated design.
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 coupling element effectively locks the relative movement between connector elements, preventing uncoupling and simplifying the connection process by integrating the functions of positioning and fixation into a single element.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic fastener 430 comprises a pair of end portions 432 configured so as to be able to slide along a surface of the first connector element 401 and to divaricate with respect to one another so as to be able to be elastically connected to a locking element 420
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a coupling element (300), an electrical connector device comprising such coupling element (300) and a connection and fixing method by means of a coupling element (300). The coupling element (300) is configured to ensure and fix the correct relative positioning between a first connector element (10) and a second connector element (20) which can be coupled to one another along a first direction (R1). The coupling element (300) is configured so as to fix the relative positioning between the first connector element (10) and the coupling element (300) along a second direction (R2) that is perpendicular to the first direction (R1).