Connector With Integrated Unlock Member for Single-Action Disengagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors require simultaneous operation of multiple parts to disengage, making maintenance operations cumbersome and time-consuming due to the need to press multiple operating parts simultaneously to release the engagement of connecting protrusions and lock pieces.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a second connector housing with lever members and an unlock member that allows for easy disengagement of connecting protrusions and lock pieces by displacing the lever members inward, facilitated by taper surfaces on the unlock parts, enabling single-action unlocking through a connecting part.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple operating parts are used to disengage lock pieces, then the connector housings are securely locked, but the operation to release engagement becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple operating parts are merged into a single integrated operating part that simultaneously controls all lock pieces. When the single operating part is moved, it actuates all lock pieces at once, allowing secure locking while simplifying the unlocking operation to a single action.
Solution Approach 2:
The single operating part serves multiple functions by simultaneously controlling multiple lock pieces. This multi-functional design allows one component to perform the work of several operating parts, improving ease of operation while maintaining reliable locking of all connections.
2Reliability
If multiple operating parts are pressed simultaneously to disengage lock pieces, then all connecting protrusions are released, but the maintenance operation requires coordinated effort and delays the process
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple operating parts are combined into a single operating part that moves in unison to disengage all lock pieces simultaneously. This eliminates the time loss associated with coordinating multiple separate operations while ensuring complete disengagement of all connecting protrusions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single operating part is designed to automatically coordinate the disengagement of all lock pieces in the correct sequence and timing. This preliminary coordination of actions eliminates the need for manual coordination during maintenance, reducing the time required while ensuring reliable complete disengagement.
3Ease of operation
If separate operating parts are used for each lock piece, then individual control is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separate operating parts are merged into a single integrated operating part that internally coordinates the control of all lock pieces. This reduces device complexity by eliminating redundant components while maintaining the functional capability to control each lock piece individually through the unified operating mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The single operating part is designed with multi-functionality to control multiple lock pieces through internal linkages or mechanical advantages. This universal design allows one component to perform the functions of multiple separate operating parts, reducing overall device complexity while preserving individual control capability.
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 design allows for effortless unlocking of connector housings by pressing a single operating part, reducing operation force and improving maintenance efficiency, with automatic return of the unlock member to its original position post-disengagement, enhancing handleability.
Implementation Method 1
The lock piece 27 includes an elastic piece 27a extending from a base end side towards a distal end
Implementation Method 2
a pair of lever members 30 which extend from distal ends 271 of the lock pieces 27 in a first direction
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a first connector housing having connecting protrusions and a second connector housing having lock pieces. The first connector housing and the second connector housing are locked in a fitted state by the engagement of the connecting protrusions and the lock pieces. When free ends of the lever members are displaced inwards in a widthwise direction of the second connector housing, the distal ends of the lock pieces are displaced outwards in the widthwise direction so that the connecting protrusions and the lock pieces are disengaged. The unlock member includes a pair of unlock parts which make the free ends of the lever members to be displaced inward in the widthwise direction by being moved in a second direction perpendicular to a first direction in which the lever members extend.