Connector Locking Lance Geometry for Terminal Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
In connectors with reduced size, the locking lance's holding force for the terminal fitting is compromised due to its reduced size, leading to inadequate retention of the terminal fitting during rearward movement.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a deformation inducing portion on the facing surface of the locking lance, which induces upward bending when a force is applied, ensuring strong contact with the terminal fitting and restricting further deformation, thus maintaining the holding force even in a reduced-size connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the connector size is reduced, then the connector becomes more compact and space-efficient, but the locking lance's holding force for the terminal fitting is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking lance is designed with a deformation inducing portion that creates localized bending characteristics. This allows the locking lance to have different mechanical properties at different locations - the deformation inducing portion has reduced thickness to facilitate bending, while other portions maintain sufficient strength. This local variation in quality enables the locking lance to generate adequate holding force despite the overall reduction in connector size.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking lance transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic structure capable of controlled deformation. The deformation inducing portion allows the locking lance to bend elastically when the terminal fitting is inserted, creating a locking action. This dynamic behavior enables the locking lance to adapt to the terminal fitting and maintain holding force even in a compact connector design.
2Length of moving object
If the locking lance is made thinner to reduce connector size, then the connector becomes more compact, but the locking lance cannot obtain sufficient holding force for the terminal fitting
Solution Approach 1:
The locking lance features a deformation inducing portion with locally reduced thickness compared to other portions. This localized thinning creates a hinge-like region that facilitates bending while the thicker portions maintain structural integrity and provide sufficient holding force. The local quality variation resolves the contradiction between thinness for compactness and sufficient thickness for force generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking lance has an asymmetric cross-sectional thickness distribution, with the deformation inducing portion being thinner than the base and tip portions. This asymmetric design allows the locking lance to bend preferentially at the deformation inducing portion while maintaining adequate strength at the anchoring and contacting regions, enabling compact design without sacrificing holding force.
3Ease of operation
If the locking lance deforms in the second deformation mode (bent part away from terminal fitting), then the locking lance can accommodate insertion, but the deformation cannot be restricted and rearward movement cannot be suppressed
Solution Approach 1:
The deformation inducing portion is pre-configured to guide the locking lance into the first deformation mode where the bent part faces the terminal fitting. This preliminary configuration creates a mechanical preference for the correct deformation direction, preventing the locking lance from deforming in the incorrect second mode. The geometry of the deformation inducing portion and its interaction with the terminal fitting during insertion ensures that the locking action occurs in the reliable first deformation mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking lance is designed with the deformation inducing portion positioned and shaped to engage with the terminal fitting during the insertion process. This preliminary engagement guides the deformation to occur in the correct direction (first deformation mode) before the locking action is finalized. By establishing the correct deformation mode during insertion, the system ensures reliable rearward movement suppression without requiring additional restrictive mechanisms.
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 deformation inducing portion effectively suppresses rearward movement of the terminal fitting by enhancing the locking lance's holding force, ensuring reliable retention without reducing the connector's size, and allowing for easy formation without special processing.
Implementation Method 1
the locking lance being resiliently deforming and locks the terminal fitting from behind
Data Source
AI summary
A housing 20 includes a locking lance 25 projecting forward from the inner surface of a cavity 22 and configured to lock a terminal fitting 60 from behind be able to retain the terminal fitting 60, and a wall surface part 41 to be arranged below the locking lance 25. The locking lance 25 includes, for example, a corner part 37 as a deformation inducing portion, which induces upward bending if a force for moving the terminal fitting 60 rearward is applied, on a facing surface 33 facing the wall surface part 41.