Connector Lock Securing Mechanism Downsizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors with lock securing mechanisms are large due to the need for a bending space in the locking arm, which compromises mechanical strength and operability, making them bulky.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a lock securing member with a lock releasing portion that allows the engagement between the locking arm and the engaging portion to be released by moving the lock securing member, eliminating the need for a bending space in the locking arm, thus downsizing the connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a bending space is provided for the locking arm to release engagement, then the connection can be released, but the connector size increases and mechanical strength decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock securing member acts as an intermediary between the locking arm and the engaging portion. When the lock securing member moves from the allowing position to the regulating position, it pushes the locking arm to release the engagement with the engaging portion, eliminating the need for a bending space at the locking arm's free end.
2Strength
If the locking arm is made larger to ensure mechanical strength and operability, then the locking function is reliable, but the connector size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock securing member serves as a mediator that transfers the pushing force to the locking arm. This allows the locking arm to be smaller and more compact while still achieving reliable engagement release through the force applied by the lock securing member.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock securing member is positioned at the allowing position during connection, enabling the locking arm to be pre-configured in a compact state. When release is needed, the lock securing member moves to push the locking arm, achieving release without requiring the locking arm to have a large bending space.
3Reliability
If the lock securing member regulates movement before full engagement, then proper connection is ensured, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock securing member combines multiple functions: it regulates the locking arm's movement during engagement, allows proper connection when positioned at the allowing position, and enables release by moving to the regulating position. This merging of functions reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall mechanism.
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 allows for a compact connector size without compromising mechanical strength or operability, as the lock releasing portion ensures reliable disengagement by moving the lock securing member, reducing the need for a bending space in the locking arm.
Implementation Method 1
The locking arm is once resiliently deformed, then returns to a neutral position to be engaged with the mating connector
Implementation Method 2
a lock releasing portion mounted on the lock securing member for releasing the engagement between the locking arm and the engaging portion by moving the lock securing member
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a male housing, a locking arm to be engaged with a locking projection of a mating connector, a lock securing member, and a lock releasing portion. The lock securing member is mounted movably on the connector. The lock releasing portion is mounted on the lock releasing portion. The lock releasing portion releases an engagement between the locking arm and the locking projection in conjunction with a movement of the lock securing member while the locking projection and the locking arm are completely engaged with each other.