Connector Miniaturization via Integrated Holding and Engagement
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors face challenges in miniaturization due to the need for separate engagement and holding structures, which complicates the formation of terminal holes and holding holes, and often results in a reduced holding force when attempting to miniaturize.
Innovation Solution
The connector design incorporates terminal holes in the enclosure main body with intersecting holding holes that also serve for cover member engagement, featuring a holding member with a recessed part and a cover member with engagement pieces to enhance holding force and stability, allowing for miniaturization while maintaining a strong terminal hold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If separate engagement part and holding hole are formed on the enclosure main body, then the cover member can be engaged and the terminal can be held, but the connector size increases and miniaturization becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the engagement part and holding hole into a single integrated structure on the enclosure main body. The engagement part is formed as an integral component that serves both to engage the cover member and to provide the holding function for terminals, thereby reducing the number of separate features needed and enabling miniaturization of the overall connector assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement part is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it engages with the cover member to secure it to the enclosure main body, and also provides the holding function for terminals. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated structures, thereby reducing connector size while maintaining all necessary functions.
2Volume of moving object
If the connector is simply miniaturized, then the size is reduced, but the holding force of the terminal becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement part is designed with locally optimized features that concentrate holding force at critical points. The structure includes localized reinforcement and geometric features that maximize holding force in the engagement region without requiring overall size increase, enabling miniaturization while maintaining sufficient terminal holding strength.
3Volume of moving object
If the holding hole is used for both holding member insertion and cover member engagement, then miniaturization is achieved, but the release of the holding member may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement part is segmented into distinct functional zones: one region for holding member insertion and another for cover member engagement. This segmentation allows the single integrated structure to perform both functions independently and reliably, preventing interference between the two functions and ensuring that cover member engagement does not cause holding member release.
Data Source
AI summary
The connector of the present invention is provided with a cover member attached to an enclosure main body and has a plurality of terminal holes formed, wherein the cover member has engagement piece that is attached to the edge of an opening of a holding hole where a holding member is inserted.