Connector Identifier Layout for Reliable Fitting Confirmation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In conventional connectors, when the position assurance lock is in the released position, the entire identifier is covered, causing confusion for workers and decreasing work efficiency during fitting tasks.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a housing with a visible first identifier and a second identifier on an attachment member, which is visible only when the attachment member is in a specific position, allowing for reliable detection of fitting completion and improved work efficiency by ensuring only one identifier is readable at a time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the position assurance lock covers the identifier when in the released position, then the fitting detection function is reliable, but the worker becomes confused and work efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The identifier is divided into two separate identifiers: a first identifier on the housing and a second identifier on the attachment member. This segmentation allows each identifier to serve a specific function - the first identifier provides continuous visibility for work efficiency, while the second identifier provides accurate fitting detection when the attachment member is engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment member acts as an intermediary that carries the second identifier. When the attachment member is engaged with the housing, it positions the second identifier adjacent to the first identifier for accurate reading. The intermediary enables the system to provide both continuous visibility and accurate detection without direct conflict.
2Measurement precision
If the identifier is covered by the position assurance lock, then accurate fitting detection is achieved, but the worker cannot locate the identifier and becomes confused
Solution Approach 1:
The identifier function is segmented into two parts: the first identifier that remains continuously accessible on the housing, and the second identifier on the attachment member that provides accurate detection when engaged. This segmentation resolves the conflict between accessibility and detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The first identifier is placed in a position that is continuously accessible to workers before the attachment member is engaged. This preliminary visibility allows workers to locate and understand the identifier system in advance, eliminating confusion while maintaining accurate detection capability.
3Reliability
If a single identifier is used and covered by the lock, then fitting detection is reliable, but work efficiency decreases due to worker confusion
Solution Approach 1:
The single identifier is segmented into two identifiers with different functions and visibility characteristics. The first identifier reduces time loss by providing continuous visibility, while the second identifier maintains detection reliability when engaged, together eliminating both confusion and time waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The first identifier provides preliminary information to workers before the fitting operation is complete, allowing them to prepare and understand the system in advance. This preliminary action reduces the time needed for fitting tasks while maintaining reliable detection through the second identifier.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a housing capable of being fitted together with a partner connector, a CPA member that is to be attached to the housing and is capable of being displaced between a standby position and a fitting assurance position, a first two-dimensional code that is arranged so as to be visible on an outer surface of the housing, and a second two-dimensional code that is disposed so as to be visible on an outer surface of the CPA member, includes information different from that of the first two-dimensional code, is disposed adjacent to the first two-dimensional code when the CPA member is in the standby position, and is arranged spaced farther apart from the first two-dimensional code compared to when the CPA member is in the standby position, accompanying displacement of the CPA member to the fitting assurance position.