Electrical Connector Demating Tool for Aligned Pin Separation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for demating multi-pin connectors (MPCs) often result in misalignment, damage to pins or sockets, and lead wire breakage due to manual handling, which lacks a reliable mechanism for stable and even separation.
Innovation Solution
A demating tool with a handle assembly, first and second separating members, and a gripping assembly featuring claws and an elastic member, allowing for parallel movement and radial closure to securely grip and demate connectors without twisting or damaging them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual handling is used to separate MPC portions, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to misalignment and damage to pins, sockets, or lead wires
Solution Approach 1:
A demating tool serves as an intermediary device between the user and the MPC portions. The tool includes gripping members that engage with the connectors and separating members that apply controlled separating force, eliminating direct manual handling while preventing misalignment and damage to pins, sockets, and lead wires
Solution Approach 2:
The demating tool is designed to automatically maintain proper alignment between MPC portions during separation through its mechanical structure. The gripping members and separating members are configured to work together in a way that self-corrects alignment issues, allowing the tool to protect the connectors without requiring precise user skill
2Device complexity
If fixed-size gripping mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates for different connector sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The gripping mechanism incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow the demating tool to adapt to different connector sizes. The gripping members can be positioned at different locations along the connector body, and the elastic member provides flexible engagement force, enabling the same tool to handle various MPC configurations without increasing fundamental device complexity
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 tool ensures proper alignment and minimizes side loading during demating, preventing damage to pins, sockets, and lead wires, enabling safe and efficient disconnection of electrical connector assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member operatively connected to the proximal ends of the set of claws, wherein the elastic member biases the proximal ends of the set of claws towards one another
Data Source
AI summary
A demating device configured to demate an electrical connector assembly having a first connector and a second connector is provided. The demating device may include a first separating member, a second separating member, and a gripping assembly. Actuation of the first separating member and the second separating member towards one another drives the jaws of the gripping assembly together, therein allowing secure gripping of the electrical connector assembly via the demating device for separation of the first and second connectors.