Connector Holder Retention for Secure Low-Cost Connection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connector connection apparatuses for motor vehicles become complex and costly due to the need for movable connectors and engaging projections, which complicate the assembly and increase production costs.
Innovation Solution
A connector connection apparatus featuring a holder and a receiving member with a locking mechanism, where the holder is insertable through an upper opening and fixed using a fixing member, allowing for movement within the receiving member to ensure secure connection without increasing costs, utilizing a receiving hole with a larger diameter and a bottom plate for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If engaging projections and engaging arms are formed on the sleeve and connectors to make connectors movable and prevent drop, then connector reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex engaging projections and arms from the sleeve and connector structures, replacing them with a simple gap-based retention mechanism where the holder is held in place by the gap between the receiving member and holder, eliminating the need for additional engaging features
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of adding positive engaging features (projections and arms) to prevent connector drop, the invention uses a negative space approach where the gap itself provides the retention function, inverting the traditional design philosophy
2Reliability
If engaging projections and engaging arms are formed on the sleeve and connectors to make connectors movable and prevent drop, then connector reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the need for additional engaging projections and arms, simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing material requirements, which directly lowers production costs while maintaining the gap-based retention mechanism
3Reliability
If the connector is made movable in the sleeve to ensure connection when headrest moves close to seat, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates complex engaging arms and projections that would be needed to control connector movement, allowing the holder to move freely within the gap-constrained receiving member, achieving movement capability without additional structural complexity
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is to provide a connector connection apparatus to avoid drop of a connector without increase of cost. The connector connection apparatus includes a holder for receiving therein and holding the connector, a receiving portion main body for receiving therein and holding the holder, and a plate for fixing the holder attached to the receiving portion main body. The receiving portion main body includes a receiving hole having a diameter larger than an outer diameter of the holder and receiving the holder therein. The holder is inserted from an upper opening of the receiving hole into the receiving portion main body. The holder is then held between the plate and the receiving portion main body.