Connector Fitting Detection Member Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors face issues with unintentional release due to excessive external forces and lack of terminal housing state detection, leading to reduced workability and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a fitting detection member with a temporary and complete engagement position, a deflection regulator, and an engagement member that ensures correct terminal housing detection, preventing unintentional release and enhancing workability by allowing controlled release operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the fitting detection member is designed to be separable from the housing by pulling with force larger than engagement force, then workability when fitting is released is improved, but the fitting detection member may be unintentionally separated from the housing when excessively large external forces are applied
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two distinct locking parts: a first locking part that engages with the fitting detection member and can be released, and a second locking part that engages with the housing and maintains permanent engagement. This segmentation allows the fitting detection member to be separable for workability while the second locking part prevents unintentional separation by maintaining a permanent lock.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting lock arm acts as an intermediary mechanism between the fitting detection member and the housing. It transfers and distributes the engagement force between the two components, allowing controlled separation through the first locking part while maintaining overall structural integrity through the second locking part.
2Device complexity
If the connector lacks a mechanism to detect terminal housing state, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to detect incorrect terminal insertion is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting detection member is merged with dual locking functionality: it serves both as a fitting state detector and as part of the locking mechanism through the first and second locking parts. This combination allows terminal housing state detection without adding separate complex detection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The fitting detection member performs multiple functions: it detects the fitted state between housings, engages with the first locking part for controlled separation, and works in conjunction with the second locking part for permanent engagement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate detection mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If the fitting lock arm is allowed to deflect freely, then ease of operation for intentional release is improved, but the fitting of the connector may be released when external force is applied to the fitting lock arm
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is segmented into two parts: the first locking part that allows controlled deflection for intentional release, and the second locking part that prevents excessive deflection under external force. This segmentation enables both ease of operation and fitting stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflection characteristics of the fitting lock arm are modified by the deflection regulator, which changes the mechanical parameters of the locking system to allow controlled deflection for intentional release while preventing excessive deflection that would cause unintentional release under external force.
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 connector effectively detects the fitted state and prevents unintentional release, while ensuring correct terminal housing, thereby improving workability and reliability compared to conventional designs.
Implementation Method 1
Even if the fitting detection member is unintentionally separated in this way, a fitted state of the connector is maintained by an elastic force of the fitting lock arm
Data Source
AI summary
An engagement member mounted to a first housing with a fitting detection member located at a complete engagement position is located at a correct position with a terminal correctly housed in the first housing and is located at an incorrect position with the terminal incorrectly housed in the first housing. The engagement member located at the correct position does not interfere with the fitting detection member and allows a movement of the fitting detection member from the complete engagement position to a temporary engagement position. The engagement member located at the incorrect position interferes with the fitting detection member and prevents the movement of the fitting detection member from the complete engagement position to the temporary engagement position.