Electrical Connector Latch Mechanism for Secure Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrical connectors for computing devices are prone to accidental disconnection and damage due to external forces, which can cause the devices to fall or the connectors to be damaged, as they lack secure locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating latches and apertures in both the electrical connectors and sockets of computing devices, allowing the connectors to securely engage and prevent accidental disconnection by using biased spring clips and chamfered corners to facilitate easy removal without damaging the components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If no latch mechanism is used, then the electrical connector can be easily inserted and removed, but the connector can be accidentally pulled out and cause damage
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than fixed. The latch arm can move between engaged and disengaged states, providing secure connection during normal use but allowing easy removal when needed. The spring-loaded design enables the latch to automatically return to its engaged position after insertion, maintaining reliability without permanent complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into separate functional components: the latch arm, the spring, the engagement protrusion, and the receptacle body. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to provide both secure connection and easy removal capability.
2Reliability
If a secure locking mechanism is added, then the connector prevents accidental disconnection, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is self-actuating through spring force. When the connector is inserted, the latch arm automatically engages with the protrusion without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems. The spring provides the necessary force for both engagement and disengagement, eliminating the need for motors, solenoids, or manual latching operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring acts as an intermediary element between the latch arm and the connector body, providing the necessary mechanical force for engagement while simplifying the overall structure. This intermediary component enables reliable latching without requiring complex actuation mechanisms or multiple moving parts.
3Reliability
If the latch extends far from the plug, then the engagement is more secure, but the connector may cause damage when tripped over
Solution Approach 1:
The latch arm is pre-positioned within the connector housing with only the necessary portion extending outward for engagement. The spring is pre-loaded to provide engagement force without requiring excessive latch extension. This preliminary positioning ensures secure connection while minimizing the exposed length that could be caught by external forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch arm has different structural properties at different locations: it is rigid where engagement strength is needed (at the tip and connection point) but flexible or recessed in the intermediate portions to reduce leverage from external forces. The spring provides localized force application at the engagement point without requiring the entire latch structure to be rigid and exposed.
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 a secure connection that prevents devices from being pulled off surfaces while allowing easy removal of the connectors without causing damage to either the connector or the socket, thus enhancing safety and durability.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one latch may be biased to extend away from the plug
Data Source
AI summary
According to an example embodiment, an electrical connector may include an electrical cord comprising a plurality of wires, and a plug connected to the electrical cord. The plug may include electrical contacts coupled to the plurality of electrical wires, and at least one latch. The at least one latch may be biased to extend away from the plug, an end surface of the at least one latch being within two tenths of a millimeter of an end surface of the plug opposite from the electrical cord.