Connector Assembly Latching Mechanism for Secure Electrical Connections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies require complex assembly methods and are difficult to dismantle, often resulting in damage to the contact carrier and connection bolts during disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly design where the contact connecting bolt is snapped into the contact carrier using a latching mechanism, such as a barb, allowing for easy assembly and safe removal without damaging the components, with a secure electrical connection facilitated by a threaded interface for the contact element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If retaining rings or flanged connections are used to fix the connection bolt in the contact carrier, then the connection is secure, but the assembly complexity increases and dismantling becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connection bolt is segmented into functional zones: a latching area with protrusions for secure engagement, a central area for electrical connection, and a connection area for contact element attachment. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function independently, achieving secure connection without complex additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using additional components (retaining rings) or destructive methods (flanging) to secure the connection bolt, the invention inverts the approach by integrating the latching function directly into the connection bolt structure itself through protrusions that engage with corresponding features in the contact carrier.
2Reliability
If retaining rings are used to secure the connection bolt, then the connection is stable, but additional components and assembly work are required
Solution Approach 1:
The latching function and the connection function are merged into a single integrated connection bolt structure. The protrusions on the connection bolt simultaneously provide mechanical latching and electrical connection, eliminating the need for separate retaining rings and reducing assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection bolt is designed to be self-latching through its protrusions that automatically engage with the contact carrier upon insertion. The barbed connection element also provides self-securing by preventing accidental loosening through its ratchet-like engagement, eliminating the need for additional fastening operations.
3Reliability
If flanging is used to fix the connection bolt, then the connection is secure, but manufacturing complexity increases and dismantling destroys the connection bolt
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using destructive flanging to secure the connection bolt, the invention inverts to a reversible latching mechanism where protrusions on the bolt engage with corresponding features in the contact carrier, allowing secure connection without material deformation or destruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection bolt and contact carrier are designed for recovery and reuse. The latching mechanism allows complete dismantling without damaging either component, enabling the connection bolt to be removed, inspected, maintained, and reinstalled multiple times, contrary to the destructive flanging method.
4Reliability
If the contact element is inserted into the opening of the contact carrier, then the contact element is held securely, but the contact element cannot be easily replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The contact assembly is segmented into separable components: the contact element, the connection bolt, and the contact carrier. The connection bolt serves as an intermediate carrier that holds the contact element via threading while being independently removable from the contact carrier, enabling easy contact element replacement without affecting the carrier structure.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
Contact holder (12) has at least one opening (14a-14c) into which a contact connection pin (16) is inserted. The contact connection pin has a first connecting section with which an electrical contact element (84) is connectable, and a second connecting section (20) with which an electrical conductor is connectable. The contact connection pin has at least one stop (73b) that engages a stop section (82b) of the contact holder. An independent claim is also included for a contact connection pin.