Connector Keying Assembly With Integrated Locking and Panel Fixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connection assemblies in avionics bays lack a simple, reliable, and adaptable solution that ensures correct association, secure fixing, and locking of connectors while minimizing assembly/disassembly operations.
Innovation Solution
A keying device comprising two parts with indexing and deformable lugs/slots that ensure correct orientation and secure locking of connectors, allowing easy assembly and disassembly without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate devices are used for keying, fixing to panel, and locking connectors, then each function can be performed reliably, but the device complexity and number of parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate functions (keying, panel fixing, and connector locking) into a single integrated device. The keying element includes both the keying member for orientation guidance and the locking member for securing the connection, while also incorporating panel fixing capability. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate devices while maintaining reliable performance of all functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical keying to ensure correct orientation and association between connectors, secures the fixed connector to the reception panel, and locks the mobile connector to the fixed connector. This multi-functional design reduces part count while ensuring comprehensive connection reliability.
2Reliability
If multiple assembly operations are performed for keying, fixing, and locking, then secure connection is achieved, but assembly time and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The keying and locking features are pre-integrated into the connector design, allowing the association and locking to occur automatically during the insertion process. The deformable lugs are pre-positioned to engage with corresponding slots as the connectors come together, eliminating the need for separate manual locking operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable lugs automatically engage with the slots on the opposing connector during insertion, providing self-locking functionality. The elastic deformation of the lugs during engagement requires no additional tools or operations, and the connection secures itself through the inherent mechanical properties of the deformable elements.
3Ease of operation
If simple fixing means are used, then assembly is easy, but connection reliability over time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The lugs are designed with specific elastic properties that allow them to deform during engagement and then maintain a permanent engaged state. The material and geometric parameters of the lugs are optimized to provide sufficient flexibility for easy assembly while ensuring adequate retention force for long-term reliability. The deformable nature of the lugs allows them to accommodate slight misalignments during assembly while maintaining secure connection during operation.
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 solution provides secure and reliable electrical connections by ensuring correct association and fixing of connectors, reducing assembly complexity and maintaining connections over time.
Implementation Method 1
these second complementary fixing means comprise one or more lugs deformable by flexion
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4A~4B
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to an improved fool-proofing device for an electrical connection assembly, said device comprising: - a first part (3) and a second part (4), removably coupled via a mechanical link along a main axis (X), - the first part (3) comprising a first fool-proofing member (31) and the second part (4) comprising a second fool-proofing member (41), - the first part (3) comprising means for securing by interlocking of the first connector (1) on the reception panel (P) thereof, - the second part (4) comprising means for fastening by interlocking designed to fasten said second part (4) on the second connector (2), - the first part (3) and the second part (4) each comprising complementary mechanical fastening means, intended to mate with each other by interlocking when the first connector (1) and the second connector (2) are coupled.