Cable Connector Latch Structure for Vertical Strap Unlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cable connectors with latches face issues such as deformation and failure when the strap is pulled vertically upwards, leading to incomplete unlocking due to interference with the pressing plate and reduced maximum downward stroke, especially in low profile structures.
Innovation Solution
The connector design includes a pressing portion above the strap hole portion, allowing downward force application to drive the strap hole portion towards the base, ensuring smooth unlocking regardless of horizontal or vertical strap pulling, with a U-shaped elastic portion and a baffle to prevent interference and deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the strap is pulled vertically upwards to unlock the connector, then the operator can unlock the connector in limited operating space, but the strap interferes with the pressing plate causing deformation and potential failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pressing plate as an intermediary component between the strap and the internal mechanism. The pressing plate transfers the unlocking force from the strap to the snap-fit protrusion while preventing direct interference between the strap and pressing plate during vertical pulling operations
Solution Approach 2:
The latch is divided into separate functional components: the strap hole portion for force application, the pressing plate for force transmission, and the snap-fit protrusion for engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without interfering with others during vertical strap pulling
2Volume of moving object
If the connector is designed with low profile structure, then the connector size is reduced, but the maximum downward stroke of the pressing plate is reduced causing incomplete unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the strap hole portion above the pressing plate in the vertical dimension, allowing the strap to pull downward on the pressing plate without requiring horizontal space. This vertical arrangement enables the pressing plate to achieve sufficient downward stroke within the constrained low-profile thickness of the connector
3Ease of operation
If the strap hole portion is positioned to allow vertical strap pulling, then ease of operation is improved, but the strap interferes with the pressing plate causing deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing plate serves as a mediator that receives force from the strap hole portion and transmits it to the snap-fit mechanism. The pressing plate is designed with sufficient structural strength to withstand the forces applied during vertical strap pulling without deforming, while still allowing the necessary downward movement for unlocking
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
Ensures reliable and smooth unlocking of the connector, suitable for limited space scenarios, with a reduced size and improved usability by preventing deformation and ensuring the snap-fit protrusion fully exits the snap-fit opening.
Implementation Method 1
a U-shaped elastic portion (23)... when the operator unlocks the connector through a strap, no matter whether the strap is pulled horizontally backwards or the strap is pulled upwards in a vertical direction, the strap hole portion can be fully driven down to ensure smooth unlocking of the connector
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a connector, including a base and a latch, the latch being one piece formed and disposed on the base, wherein one end of the latch having a strap hole portion, and another end of the latch having a pressing portion, wherein the pressing portion is located above the strap hole portion, and when the pressing portion is pressed and moves toward the base, the pressing portion drives the strap hole portion to move toward the base together. In this way, an operator applies force downward on the pressing portion, or pulls the strap horizontally backwards, or pulls the strap upwards in a vertical direction, the strap hole portion can be fully driven down to ensure smooth unlocking of the connector, so that the connector has improved in use reliability and a wider scope of application.