Connector Detection Member Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector technologies lack a mechanism to detect complete fitting while maintaining a reduced size, which is essential for efficient electrical connections.
Innovation Solution
The connector structure incorporates a detection member with a tab portion that is inserted between the arm and the first wall portion, guided by a protrusion, and a lock tab that restricts elastic deformation, allowing for complete fitting detection while minimizing the connector's size through the use of ribs and a lock arm mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a detection mechanism is incorporated into the connector to detect complete fitting, then the reliability of connection status detection is improved, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detection member is integrated into the lock arm structure, combining the locking function and detection function into a single component. The lock arm serves both to lock the connector in the fitted state and to detect whether complete fitting has occurred, eliminating the need for separate detection mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The lock arm is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides the locking action to secure the connector, serves as a detection member to detect complete fitting through its interaction with the protrusion and gap, and restricts elastic deformation of adjacent components. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed
2Reliability
If a detection mechanism is incorporated into the connector to detect complete fitting, then the reliability of connection status detection is improved, but the connector size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection member is positioned within the existing structural spaces of the connector, specifically utilizing the gap between the lock arm and the housing wall. The detection mechanism does not require additional external space but rather nestles into the existing geometric relationships between components, maintaining compact connector dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The detection mechanism operates in the radial dimension through the interaction between the protrusion on the housing and the detection member extending into the gap, rather than requiring additional axial or lateral space. This dimensional approach allows detection functionality without increasing the overall connector length or width
3Measurement precision
If the detection member is allowed to move freely to detect fitting status, then the detection precision is improved, but the reliability of the locking mechanism deteriorates due to unwanted movement
Solution Approach 1:
The lock arm is segmented into functional zones: a detection portion that interacts with the protrusion to detect fitting status, and a locking portion that performs the locking action. The tab portion creates a restricted movement zone that allows precise detection movement while preventing unwanted movement that would compromise locking reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The tab portion acts as an intermediary element between the detection member and the housing wall. It provides a controlled interface that allows the detection member to move precisely for detection purposes while the tab itself restricts excessive movement, mediating between the need for detection precision and locking stability
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
This solution enables reliable detection of complete fitting between connectors, maintaining a compact size and ensuring secure electrical connections by preventing unintentional disengagement and protecting the detection mechanism from external forces.
Implementation Method 1
the arm main unit 18 has flexibility, and the lock tabs 17 ride over the protrusions 65 to lock the protrusions 65 when the housing 6 is inserted in the housing main unit 11
Data Source
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AI summary
A connector (10) includes: an outer housing (1) including an arm (12) that protrudes from a first wall portion (11a) to a space portion (19) surrounded by a housing main unit (11); an inner housing (2) inside the housing main unit; and a detection member (3) supported between the first wall portion and the inner housing slidably. The housing main unit has an opening portion (11h) in which a counterpart housing (6) having a protrusion (65) is inserted. The arm includes an arm main unit (18) with flexibility extending toward the opening portion and a lock tab (17) protruding from the arm main unit. When the counterpart housing is inserted, the arm main unit is elastically deformed to enable the lock tab to ride over and lock the protrusion. When the lock tab completes riding over, the lock tab allows the detection member to move toward the opening portion.