Connector Latching Lug Prevents Unintentional Release Under Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latching mechanisms for plug contacts are prone to unintentional release due to forces and moments applied to the latching shoulder, which can deflect the latching arm and cause the plug contact to be released unintentionally.
Innovation Solution
A latching mechanism featuring a locking arm with a fixed end and a movable free end, including a locking shoulder and an additional locking lug, where the locking lug engages with the plug contact's cable receiving opening, preventing deflection unless the plug contact is further inserted to release the latch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a latching arm with spring force is used to hold the latching shoulder in position, then the plug contact can be locked automatically without tools, but the latching arm can be deflected by external forces or moments applied to the plug contact, causing unintentional release
Solution Approach 1:
The latching arm is designed as a resilient (elastic) component that can dynamically deflect under load and automatically return to its locked position. The arm bends when force is applied to the plug contact but maintains engagement, and springs back when the force is removed, providing automatic adjustment to dynamic conditions while maintaining reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism is divided into functionally independent segments: the resilient latching arm for engagement, the insertion bevel for guided entry, and the insertion force transmission path. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function optimally - the arm provides elastic retention, the bevel ensures proper alignment, and the force path prevents unwanted deflection during insertion.
2Reliability
If the latching shoulder protrudes into the contact opening to engage the plug contact, then locking is achieved, but the latching arm can be deflected when force is applied to the plug contact, releasing the lock
Solution Approach 1:
The latching arm's material properties and geometric parameters are optimized to achieve the desired balance. The arm has specific elastic characteristics that allow it to deflect within a controlled range under normal operating forces while maintaining engagement, and to spring back reliably to the locked position. The thickness, length, and cross-section of the arm are designed to provide appropriate flexibility and strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly combines different materials with complementary properties: the resilient latching arm is made from elastic material to provide flexible retention, while the housing and plug contact are made from rigid materials to provide structural support and force transmission. This composite material approach allows the soft, flexible arm to engage with the hard, rigid plug contact, achieving reliable locking without complex mechanisms.
3Ease of repair
If a tool is used to deflect the latching arm for disassembly, then the plug contact can be released, but the same mechanism allows unintentional release when force is applied during normal use
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient latching arm exploits dynamic elastic deformation to enable both intentional disassembly and resist unintentional release. During normal use, the arm's elasticity allows it to absorb and recover from minor force variations, maintaining secure engagement. During intentional disassembly, sufficient force applied to the free end of the arm causes controlled deflection that releases the plug contact, and the arm's elastic nature ensures it returns to its original position after release.
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 the plug contact remains securely locked even under forces and moments, making it difficult to deflect the latching arm and release the plug contact unintentionally.
Implementation Method 1
The latching is formed from at least one latching arm, which protrudes into the at least one contact opening of the housing. The locking arm has a fixed end with which it is fixed in the contact opening. The second end of the locking arm forms a free end which is movable against the spring stiffness of the locking arm.
Implementation Method 2
By deflecting the latching arm using a tool, the latching shoulder can release the plug contact, for example for disassembly
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a latching means for plug contacts (1) in insulating housings (10) of plug connectors. The invention relates to a latching means which, in addition to the known arrangement of latching arm (1) and latching shoulder (2), comprises a latching lug (3) on the latching shoulder (2). By means of the latching lug (3) according to the invention, release of the latching means under mechanical load is avoided. The latching lug (3) permits additional latching of the latching arm (1) on the plug contact (5).