Electrical Connector Holder Integrating Wire Clamping and Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors for supplemental inflatable restraint systems are complex in assembly due to a large number of parts and inconvenient when requiring a cable outlet parallel to the mating axis, with terminal fittings being substantially parallel to the wires.
Innovation Solution
An improved electrical connector assembly with a holder that locks onto the connector housing using complementary locking means, featuring a flexible arm and clamping surfaces to securely attach terminal fittings with only two steps, reducing the number of parts and simplifying assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a traditional electrical connector assembly with multiple separate components is used, then the connector can provide basic electrical connection functionality, but the assembly becomes complex with a large number of parts
Solution Approach 1:
The holder integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides locking means (retaining lugs) to secure the terminal fitting, clamping surfaces to grip the electrical wire, and structural support for the terminal fitting. This merging of locking, clamping, and support functions into one holder component reduces the total part count while maintaining reliable attachment of the terminal fitting to the connector housing.
2Ease of operation
If terminal fittings are arranged parallel to wires, then the cable outlet can be positioned parallel to the mating axis, but the assembly process becomes inconvenient and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed with sliding capability along the connector housing, allowing dynamic adjustment during assembly. The holder can be positioned at different locations along the housing to accommodate terminal fittings oriented parallel to the wires, with the sliding mechanism enabling convenient assembly while maintaining the desired cable outlet orientation parallel to the mating axis.
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 solution simplifies the manufacturing and assembly process by reducing the number of parts and ensuring reliable attachment of terminal fittings with a straightforward two-step process, enhancing the connector's ease of use and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
the flexible arm has a cam surface against which a portion of the terminal fitting is sliding during its insertion into the housing in order to bias the flexible arm outwardly
Implementation Method 2
locking means which cooperates with complementary locking means provided on the connector housing in order to retain the holder in a locked position onto the connector housing
Implementation Method 3
a first clamping surface which cooperates with a second clamping surface provided on the connector housing in order to clamp a portion of the electrical wire when the holder is in its locked position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~5
AI summary
Electrical connector assembly (10) comprising a connector housing (12) configured to receive at least one terminal fitting (20) attached to the free end of an electrical wire (32, 34), characterized in that the electrical connector assembly (10) further comprises a holder (48) which is mounted onto the connector housing (12) for holding the terminal fitting (20) in the housing (12), said holder (48) having: - locking means (62, 64) which cooperates with complementary locking means (60, 66, 70) provided on the connector housing (12) in order to retain the holder (48) in a locked position onto the connector housing (12), - a first clamping surface (74) which cooperates with a second clamping surface (76) provided on the connector housing (12) in order to clamp a portion of the electrical wire (32, 34) when the holder (48) is in its locked position, and in that said second clamping surface (76) is located on at least one of said complementary locking means (70) provided on the connector housing (12).