Connector Fitting Detection Layout for Compact Large-Terminal Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors face challenges in preventing an increase in size when larger terminals are used, as the lower surfaces of elastic pieces and support arms are at the same height, leading to a wider connector size to accommodate larger terminals.
Innovation Solution
A connector design that includes a regular fitting detecting member with an elastic piece and guide pieces, where the lower surfaces of these components are positioned to shift in the height direction, allowing for the accommodation of terminals of varying sizes without increasing the connector's size in the width or height direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the lower surfaces of elastic pieces and support arms are disposed at the same height position, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the connector size increases in the width direction when larger terminals are used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent shifts the arrangement from a single-plane configuration (all lower surfaces at the same height) to a multi-plane configuration where the elastic piece lower surface and guide piece lower surfaces are positioned at different heights. This vertical dimensionality change allows terminals of varying sizes to be accommodated without increasing connector width, as each terminal can be positioned at its optimal height level.
2Area of stationary object
If terminals are shifted in position in the width direction to prevent connector size increase, then connector width is reduced, but the terminal layout becomes less optimal
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces vertical positioning freedom by allowing elastic pieces and guide pieces to operate at different height levels. This enables terminals to be arranged in a three-dimensional space rather than constrained to a two-dimensional plane, providing optimal terminal layout flexibility without compromising connector width.
3Area of stationary object
If the connector size is reduced in the width direction, then the overall compactness is improved, but the accommodation of larger terminals becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension to accommodate terminals of different sizes. Larger terminals can be positioned at height levels corresponding to guide pieces, while smaller terminals can be positioned at height levels corresponding to elastic pieces. This allows the connector to maintain a compact width while accommodating various terminal sizes through vertical stratification.
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 effectively prevents an increase in connector size by allowing the positioning of terminal components to adapt to the size and layout of the terminals, ensuring efficient use of space and maintaining a compact connector form.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic piece allows for the regular fitting detecting member to move to the detection position by being elastically deformed in the width direction
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a housing which allows for insertion and fitting into a mating connector in an insertion direction perpendicular to a height direction and to a width direction, and a regular fitting detecting member. The regular fitting detecting member is supported on an outer wall surface of the housing so as to be slidable in the insertion direction to a non-detection position and a detection position. The regular fitting detecting member includes a base portion which has a detecting portion which allows for detecting regular fitting at the detection position, and an elastic piece and a pair of guide pieces which extend in the insertion direction from the base portion. The guide pieces allow for guiding sliding of the regular fitting detecting member by engagement with the housing. The elastic piece allows for the regular fitting detecting member to move to the detection position by being elastically deformed in the width direction. A lower surface of the elastic piece and lower surfaces of the guide pieces are disposed in a manner that shifts the position in the height direction.