Connector Housing Assembly for Multi-Connector Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector systems face challenges in securely fastening multiple different connector types together, leading to difficulties in configuration and connection, which can affect the integrity and stability of electrical applications due to independent movement and potential entanglement.
Innovation Solution
A connector housing assembly that uses mounting plates with specific protrusions and recesses to constrain and align electrical connectors, allowing for secure fastening of varying types in a single housing, ensuring correct orientation and alignment without additional operator effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different connector types are allowed to move independently, then adaptability is improved, but stability and reliability deteriorate due to potential entanglement and misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate is segmented into multiple independent connector receptacles, each capable of accepting different connector types. This segmentation allows each connector to be independently mounted while maintaining overall system stability through the unified mounting plate structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting plate acts as an intermediary structure between the housing and multiple connectors. It provides a stable intermediate platform that constrains connector positions and orientations, preventing entanglement while allowing adaptability in connector selection.
2Device complexity
If multiple connectors are secured to a housing without a standardized mounting system, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and alignment quality worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, defines precise connector positions through molded receptacles, ensures correct orientation via keying features, and facilitates assembly through integrated fastening mechanisms. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate alignment fixtures or complex mounting procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting plate incorporates self-aligning features such as protrusions that mate with recesses in connectors, and keying elements that automatically orient connectors correctly during insertion. This self-service mechanism ensures precise alignment without requiring additional operator effort or external alignment tools.
3Ease of operation
If connectors are allowed to move independently without constraints, then ease of operation is improved, but connection integrity deteriorates due to misalignment and entanglement
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate is pre-configured with receptacles, fastener apertures, and alignment features during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation ensures that connectors will be automatically positioned and oriented correctly when installed, maintaining connection integrity while simplifying the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting plate incorporates self-aligning protrusions and keying features that automatically guide connectors into correct positions and orientations during installation. This self-service mechanism maintains connection integrity without requiring precise manual alignment or complex installation procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector assembly is provided, including a mounting plate with mounting geometry configured to mate with an electrical connector, the mounting plate also having a plurality of fastener apertures configured in a pattern. The assembly also includes a connector housing configured to secure the electrical connector, the connector housing including a first surface defining a second plurality of fastener apertures configured in the pattern; a second surface defining a third plurality of fastener apertures configured in the pattern; and a slot shaped to receive the mounting plate and to hold the mounting plate in a substantially fixed position in which the first plurality of fastener apertures aligns with one or both of the second plurality of fastener apertures or the third plurality of fastener apertures.