Panel Connector Latch Structure for Wire-Clear Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors face difficulties in installation and removal due to space constraints imposed by wires, making it challenging to position screwdrivers and screws effectively.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a latch member with an actuating portion and a guiding portion that allows for easy fastening and release, positioning the latching mechanism away from wire interference, utilizing a sliding mechanism and elastic deformation for secure attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional connector uses screws and screwdrivers for locking, then the connector can be securely attached to the panel, but the operator experiences difficulty in positioning the screwdriver and screws due to space constraints imposed by wires
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the latching mechanism from the traditional screw-based system. The latch member with its arm and actuating portion is separated from the panel mounting structure, allowing it to be positioned away from wire interference zones while still providing secure attachment through engagement with the panel opening
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using screws that require insertion from the front, the patent inverts the locking approach by using a latch member that engages from the rear side of the panel. The actuating portion is positioned at the rear, allowing operators to access and operate the latch without dealing with wire interference at the front mounting location
2Device complexity
If the latch member is positioned close to wires for compact design, then the connector structure is more compact, but the operator is limited by space constraints and cannot easily access the actuating portion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the spatial conflict by moving the actuating portion to a different dimensional plane - specifically, the rear side of the panel rather than the front. This allows the latch arm to remain compact near the wires while the actuating portion extends to an accessible location on the opposite side of the panel, eliminating the need for operators to work in constrained front-space areas
3Reliability
If screws are used to lock the connector, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the installation and removal process requires multiple steps and tools
Solution Approach 1:
The latch member is designed to be self-actuating through its spring-loaded mechanism. When the actuating portion is pressed, the latch arm automatically disengages from the panel opening, and when released, the spring automatically returns the latch to its locked position. This eliminates the need for multiple manual steps and specialized tools required by screw-based systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic elements to the connection system through the spring-loaded latch mechanism. The latch arm can dynamically transition between locked and unlocked states through simple actuation, replacing the static, multi-step screw tightening and loosening process with a single-action mechanical system that maintains 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
Facilitates easy and secure locking and unlocking of the connector without wire interference, enhancing operational convenience and stability.
Implementation Method 1
The latch arm is connected to the actuating portion and is slidably engaged with the guiding portion and partially passes through the first surface via the latch opening when the actuating portion fastens the latching portion
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes an insulating housing, at least one terminal set, and a latch member. The insulating housing includes a latch panel, a first part, a second part, a latching portion, and a guiding portion. The latch panel has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other, and a latch opening is communicated with the first surface and the second surface. The first part is connected to the first surface and has at least one slot. The second part is connected to the second surface. The guiding portion is connected to the second surface. The terminal set is disposed in the slot. The latch member includes an actuating portion and a latch arm. The latch arm is connected to the actuating portion and is slidably engaged with the guiding portion and partially passes through the first surface via the latch opening.