Connector Lock Mechanism for Narrow Space Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors for fluid pipes, especially in automotive applications, face challenges such as difficulty in operation in narrow spaces, risk of accidental release, and poor workability due to large protruding parts and complex release mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a cylindrical housing with circumferential through-holes, an elastic lock member with leg portions that engage and disengage via sliding inclined surfaces, and a locking mechanism that minimizes protrusion and allows for easy one-touch operation, ensuring secure engagement and safe release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the wire retainer is designed with a large projecting portion to enable release operation, then the release operation can be performed, but the connector becomes difficult to operate in narrow spaces and requires large intervals between components
Solution Approach 1:
The lock member is nested within the connector housing, with the operation portion positioned inside the housing rather than projecting outward. The leg portions extend through openings in the housing, allowing the lock member to be operated from within the connector structure, eliminating the need for a large external projecting portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The release operation is achieved by moving the lock member in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the connector (radial direction), rather than requiring axial movement. This dimensional change allows operation in narrow spaces without requiring large axial projections.
2Volume of moving object
If the connector housing and male member are closely arranged to fit narrow spaces, then the connector fits in confined areas, but the release operation becomes difficult due to limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The lock member is positioned inside the connector housing with its operation portion accessible through the housing wall, allowing operation without requiring external space. The leg portions pass through openings in the housing, enabling the locking mechanism to function within a compact form factor.
3Ease of operation
If the wire retainer is made accessible for operation, then the release can be performed, but the risk of erroneous operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking portion engages with the operation portion of the lock member to prevent unintended release. This preliminary engagement creates a mechanical barrier that must be deliberately overcome, preventing erroneous operation while allowing intentional release when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock member transitions between a locked state (where the operation portion is constrained by the locking portion) and an unlocked state (where the leg portions are spread apart). This dynamic state change provides clear feedback on the locking status and prevents accidental transitions.
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
The design enhances operational ease and safety by preventing accidental releases, reduces protrusion, and simplifies the release process, improving workability even in confined spaces.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic lock member (13) including an intermediate portion (23), and both right-and-left leg portions (13b) extending to the right and left from the intermediate portion (23)
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a male member mounted on a connector housing, and a lock member which can engage and disengage between the connector housing and the male member. The connector housing includes a lock-member guide wall guiding the lock member; an engagement projection engaging with one portion of the lock member, and restricting the lock member from descending; a sliding surface where a tip portion slides accompanied by a movement of the lock member; and a through-hole through which one portion of the lock member held by the lock-member guide wall passes, and which is formed to engage with an engagement portion formed on an outer periphery of the male member mounted on the connector housing. In the lock member, the movement is restricted by the engagement projection, and after an engagement with the engagement projection is released, the lock member descends to prevent an unprepared release and ensure safety.