Connector Locking Bracket Curved Skid Wear Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for electrical connections between motor vehicles and trailers face issues with mechanical stress and weather exposure, leading to roller bearing failure and reduced operational lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A connector with a locking bracket featuring curved skid elements and detent surfaces, made from durable materials like stainless steel or UV-resistant plastics, designed for minimal wear and enhanced stability, and incorporating an elastic bearing element for shock absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If roller bearings are used in the locking bracket, then the connector can be reliably connected and fixed in position, but the roller bearings are exposed to mechanical stress, weather, dirt and oxidation leading to breakdown and reduced service life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the roller bearings from the locking bracket design, extracting the problematic component that was exposed to mechanical stress and environmental factors. The locking bracket is redesigned to function without rollers, eliminating the bearing failure mode while maintaining the locking function through alternative mechanical engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using rollers to facilitate movement and locking, the invention inverts the approach by using direct sliding contact with optimized geometry. The locking bracket slides directly along the locking arm through a curved path defined by the runner element, reversing the conventional roller-bearing mechanism to achieve wear-free operation.
2Strength
If a locking bracket with moving parts is used, then the connector can be securely locked, but the mechanical stress and repeated use cause wear and potential breakdown
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bracket and runner element are designed as simple, replaceable components made from durable but inexpensive materials. The design accepts that these components may wear over time and can be easily replaced, focusing on low-cost, high-volume production with minimal maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent specifies the use of composite or coated materials for the runner element and locking bracket, such as plastic with PTFE coating or stainless steel, combining different material properties to reduce friction and wear while maintaining mechanical strength and corrosion resistance.
3Reliability
If the locking bracket is made complex with multiple parts, then the locking function can be improved, but the construction becomes more complex and production more expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bracket is designed as a single integrated piece combining the actuating lever, locking lugs, and mounting features into one component. The runner element is similarly integrated with the electrical connector housing, eliminating the need for separate bearings, pins, and fasteners, thereby simplifying construction and reducing assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking bracket serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the actuating mechanism, provides the locking engagement through its lugs, serves as a structural support element, and includes integrated mounting features. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed while maintaining reliable locking performance.
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 connector ensures reliable and long-lasting electrical connections by minimizing wear and mechanical stress, while maintaining stability and ease of production, thus preventing premature failure due to environmental factors.
Implementation Method 1
incorporating an elastic bearing element for shock absorption
Implementation Method 2
the locking elements have curved runner elements. These skid elements make it easier for the locking bracket to slide over the locking abutment
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The connector (1), which serves for the electrical connection of a motor vehicle to a trailer, comprises a connector housing (11) in which a plug unit (15) connectable to an electrical cable (3) is arranged, and a locking bracket (4) pivotable about a bearing axis x, which comprises two bracket legs (42) each having a flange element (43) mounted on the connector housing (11) and each having a locking element (41) designed such that it can be detachably coupled to a locking abutment (21) provided on a socket (2) corresponding to the connector. According to the invention, each of the two locking elements (41) has a curved skid element (411) and a detent surface (413) adjoining it.