Electric Connector Cover Structure for Tensile Load Lock Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric connectors face challenges in maintaining engagement under tensile loads and incur cost increases due to complex manufacturing processes and additional components.
Innovation Solution
An electric connector design featuring a case with an elastically deformable engaging arm and a cover with regulating parts that control the elastic deformation, preventing disengagement under tensile loads without the need for additional components or complex molding processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a retainer is added to improve attachment strength, then the attachment strength of the case to the semi-finished product is improved, but the number of components increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the locking function directly into the case structure by forming a lock claw as an integral part of the case body. This eliminates the need for separate retainer components while maintaining the locking function. The lock claw is formed through injection molding as a single piece with the case, combining structural support and locking functions in one component.
Solution Approach 2:
The case structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, houses the connection terminals, and incorporates the lock claw for securing the semi-finished product. The lock claw is designed to engage with the semi-finished product holder, providing both structural integrity and securing function without requiring additional specialized components.
2Strength
If a retainer is added to improve attachment strength, then the attachment strength of the case to the semi-finished product is improved, but assembling becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the lock claw directly into the case as a single molded component, the assembly process is simplified. The lock claw is already positioned and oriented correctly during molding, eliminating the need for separate installation steps. This reduces assembly complexity while maintaining the secure attachment function.
3Strength
If overmolding is used to form a gripping part, then the number of components does not increase and the gripping part is prevented from coming off, but the manufacturing process becomes more complicated and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock claw is integrated into the case as a single injection-molded component, eliminating the need for separate overmolding processes. The claw-like structure is formed directly in the molding step, providing both structural support and gripping function without requiring additional manufacturing steps or specialized molding equipment.
4Device complexity
If a simple lock claw engagement is used, then the structure is simple, but the engagement may be released under tensile load
Solution Approach 1:
The lock claw is designed with elastic deformability, allowing it to dynamically adjust to engagement forces. The claw can elastically deform during engagement and maintain continuous contact with the semi-finished product holder, providing reliable retention even under tensile loads. This dynamic behavior enhances engagement reliability while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The case is made from a resin composition with specific physical properties that provide both structural integrity and elastic deformability. The material composition enables the lock claw to exhibit controlled elasticity, allowing it to maintain engagement under varying load conditions while keeping the overall structure simple and integrated.
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 design effectively suppresses cost increases and enhances the connector's strength, particularly in resisting tensile loads, while simplifying the manufacturing process.
Implementation Method 1
The case includes a first engaging part that is elastically deformed with respect to the holding member and that is engaged with the holding member
Implementation Method 2
The cover includes a regulating part configured to cover the first engaging part and to regulate elastic deformation of the first engaging part in a direction in which engagement of the first engaging part with the holding member is released
Data Source
AI summary
An electric connector is provided which enables a cost increase to be reduced and enables strength to be improved. The electric connector for connecting a cable to a counterpart connector includes: a connection part that is connected to an electrically conductive part of the cable, that is connected to an electrically conductive member of the counterpart connector, and that is electrically conductive; a holding member that holds the cable and the connection part; a case that covers the holding member; and a cover that covers a part of the case. The case includes an engaging arm part that is engaged with the holding member and that is elastically deformable. The cover includes regulating parts that cover the engaging arm part and regulate elastic deformation of the engaging arm part in a direction in which engagement of the engaging arm part with the holding member is released.