Connector Module Latch Structure for Tool-Free Terminal Block Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional connector modules require tools for terminal block removal and replacement, leading to inconvenient repairs and high material waste due to entire module discarding when errors occur.
Innovation Solution
A connector module with a latch structure that allows the terminal block to be removed tool-free by using pull handles and rotatable locking members, enabling easy assembly and disassembly without additional tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If screws are used to fasten the terminal block onto the base, then the terminal block can be securely attached, but additional hand tools are required for removal which makes repair operations tedious and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to rotate between locked and unlocked positions, transforming a static screw connection into a dynamic latch mechanism that can be easily engaged and disengaged through rotational motion of the operating lever
Solution Approach 2:
The latch structure allows the terminal block to be secured and released using the operating lever itself without requiring external hand tools, making the system self-sufficient for attachment and detachment operations
2Reliability
If the entire connector module is discarded when a terminal block is damaged, then reliability is maintained, but material waste increases and cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The connector module is divided into separable components - the base and the terminal block - allowing the terminal block to be independently removed and replaced without discarding the entire module, thus reducing material waste while maintaining system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The design enables selective replacement of only the damaged terminal block while retaining and reusing the base and other intact components, recovering valuable materials and reducing waste
3Ease of operation
If the terminal block is designed for easy removal without tools, then ease of operation is improved, but the locking mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and releasing functions are merged into a single latch structure with an integrated operating lever, where one rotational component performs both securing and releasing actions, simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The operating lever serves multiple functions - it acts as both the locking mechanism when rotated to the locked position and the releasing mechanism when rotated to the unlocked position, eliminating the need for separate locking and unlocking components
Data Source
AI summary
A connector module with a latch structure includes a base (10), a terminal block (20) and latch structures (30). The base (10) includes a housing (11) having an accommodating space (A), and the incommoding space (A) includes a positioning member (113). The terminal block (20) inserted into the accommodating space (A) includes an insertion main body (21) and conductive terminals (22). Each latch structure (30) is arranged between the housing (11) and the insertion main body (21), which includes a latch portion (31) formed on the insertion main body (21) and a locking member (32) rotatably connected to the housing (11) on one side of the positioning member (113). The locking member (32) includes a locking portion (322) for locking onto the latch portion (31) and locking slots (324) provided for the positioning member (113). Accordingly, the terminal block can be removed without the use of any tools.