Connector Escape Space Prevents Flat Conductor Rupture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors with lock mechanisms for flat conductors often result in rupture of projecting piece parts when excessive force is applied during removal, leading to connection failures due to the lack of space for deformation and engagement with the lock part.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an escape space in the fitting chamber to receive and deform the projecting piece part when the flat conductor is pulled, allowing it to move and avoid engagement with the lock part, thereby reducing the load on the root and preventing rupture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lock mechanism is used to fix the flat conductor to the connector, then the connection stability is improved, but the risk of rupture increases when excessive force is applied during removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an escape space in advance within the fitting chamber to receive the projecting piece part before rupture can occur. This pre-prepared space acts as a cushioning mechanism that absorbs the deformation stress when excessive pulling force is applied, preventing the projecting piece part from rupturing even when the lock mechanism is engaged.
2Strength
If the inner wall is positioned to abut on the distal end part of the flat conductor, then the structural support is improved, but the deformation space for the projecting piece part is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fitting chamber into distinct functional zones: one zone where the inner wall provides structural support by abutting the distal end part of the flat conductor, and another zone (escape space) that provides deformation space for the projecting piece part. This segmentation allows both structural support and deformation capability to coexist without conflict.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different local qualities to different regions of the fitting chamber. The region near the distal end has a rigid inner wall for structural support, while the escape space region has a more compliant characteristic that allows deformation. This local differentiation enables the structure to provide both support and deformation space as needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a terminal, a housing configured to hold the terminal and having an insertion port for a flat conductor and a fitting chamber where the flat conductor and the terminal are in conductive contact, and an engaging projection with which the flat conductor engages in a removing direction inside the fitting chamber. The flat conductor includes an engaging recess provided in a side edge portion along an inserting direction in the fitting chamber and having an engaging edge portion configured to abut on and engage with the engaging projection in the removing direction, and a projecting piece part located between the engaging edge portion and a distal end part of the flat conductor. The fitting chamber has an escape space. When the flat conductor is removed, the projecting piece part abuts on the engaging projection, and is displaced in the inserting direction to enter the escape space.