Rotary Connector Fastener Layout for Compact Button Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connector modules have a limited overall length for their locking components, which restricts the length of the force arm of the button, making it laborious to operate due to the need for a sufficient range of motion of the fastener.
Innovation Solution
The connector module features a fastener with a locking portion and a button connected by a rotary axis, where the pressing portion of the button is located between the rotary axis and the locking portion, allowing for a sufficient range of motion of the locking portion without reducing the length of its force arm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the pivot point is set between the button and the fastener to ensure compactness, then the overall length of the locking component is reduced, but the length of force arm of the button is limited making operation laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the button from a linear arrangement to a spatial arrangement where it is located at the end of the fastener extending from the locking portion. This dimensional reconfiguration allows the button to have a longer force arm without increasing the overall length of the locking component in the insertion direction, thereby improving operability while maintaining compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a rotatable button mechanism that can swing between a first position (for locking) and a second position (for unlocking). This dynamic positioning allows the button to optimize its force arm length during operation while maintaining a compact overall structure when in the locked position, resolving the contradiction between compactness and ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If the length of force arm of the fastener is increased to ensure sufficient range of motion, then the fastener can swing properly, but the overall length of the locking component increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the button structure within the overall locking component assembly, where the button extends from the locking portion and can rotate about a pivot point. This nested configuration allows the fastener to have sufficient length for proper swinging motion while the button remains integrated within the compact overall structure, preventing excessive increase in overall length.
3Volume of moving object
If the sum of length of force arm of button and length of force arm of fastener equals overall length, then compactness is maintained, but the length of force arm of button is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the spatial arrangement so that the button is positioned at the end of the fastener extending from the locking portion, rather than being in series along the same linear path. This dimensional change allows the force arms to be arranged in a configuration where their combined effective length exceeds the overall length of the locking component, improving button operability while maintaining compactness.
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 design enhances the operational efficiency by reducing the force required to press the button and ensuring smooth snap-fitting or release, while maintaining a compact connector module size.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member being connected to the fastener and generating an elastic force on the fastener, wherein the elastic force is capable of causing the button to move towards the outside of the outer shell
Implementation Method 2
a fastener being connected to the outer shell and rotatable relative the outer shell about a rotary axis
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes an outer shell with opposite connecting end and rear end in an insertion direction, the connecting end being located at a front end of the outer shell, a receiving space being defined in the outer shell, an opening being defined in the connecting end; a first terminal fixed in the receiving space; a fastener being connected to and rotatable relative the outer shell about a rotary axis, the fastener including a locking portion and a button, the locking portion being set in the outer shell and extending towards the opening, the button including a pressing portion capable of being operated from outside, the pressing portion being set at a front end of the rotary axis, and the locking portion being set at a front end of the pressing portion; and an elastic member being connected to the fastener and generating an elastic force on the fastener.