Connector Locking Element Prevents Vibration Disengagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connection structures for connectors are prone to disconnection due to vibrations in moving bodies and improper mating during manufacturing, leading to reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
A connection structure where the locking member can move to a predetermined position only when the connectors are mated, and applies less load for disengagement when pushed in, featuring a recess and projection design that maintains secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If connectors are simply joined together without additional locking mechanisms, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential disconnection from vibrations or improper mating
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element automatically moves to the locked position when the connectors are mated, without requiring manual intervention. The engagement section and opening work together to automatically secure the connection, eliminating the need for additional manual locking operations while maintaining high reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element is designed to move dynamically between different positions (locked and unlocked) based on the connection state. When connectors are mated, the locking element automatically transitions to the locked position, providing adaptive security without increasing structural complexity
2Reliability
If a locking element is added to secure the primary locking connection, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is integrated with the engagement section and opening structure, combining multiple functions into a unified system. The locking element works in conjunction with the existing engagement section rather than as a separate independent mechanism, reducing overall complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element operates automatically based on the connection state, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms or manual operations. The system self-regulates the locking state based on whether connectors are properly mated, reducing complexity while ensuring reliable connection
3Reliability
If the locking element prevents movement to the predetermined position when connectors are not joined, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to restricted movement
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element dynamically adapts its position based on the connection state. When connectors are being assembled, the locking element allows necessary movement for proper mating. Once mated, it automatically transitions to prevent disconnection, providing both ease of assembly and reliable locking without compromise
4Ease of operation
If the engagement release section is designed to deform under external force, then the ease of operation is improved for disengagement, but the reliability deteriorates due to potential accidental disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement release section is designed with localized deformation characteristics at specific points, allowing controlled flexibility only where needed for release operation. The rest of the connection structure maintains rigidity and resistance to accidental disconnection, achieving both ease of operation and reliability through differentiated local properties
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 secure mating of connectors and easy maintenance of the connected state, preventing accidental disconnection due to vibrations or improper mating.
Implementation Method 1
the engagement release section can deform to apply the load required to deform the engagement section into a state where it can be disengaged from the opening
Implementation Method 2
The locking element can move to a predetermined position on the side of the first connector when the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal are joined, but cannot move to the predetermined position when the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal are not joined
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(a)~2(b)
Figure 3(a)~3(c)
AI summary
The problem addressed by the present invention lies in easily maintaining a state in which several connectors are securely joined. A connection structure (S) is a structure for connecting a first connector (1) and a second connector (2).The first connector (1) comprises a first housing (11) that is provided around the first connection terminal (10) and has at least one opening (12), and the second connector (2) comprises a housing (21) that is provided around the second connection terminal (20) and has an engagement section (22) that engages in the opening (12) formed in the first housing (11) when the first connection terminal (10) and the second connection terminal (20) are joined and the second housing (21) is joined to the first housing (11), and a locking element (24) that can move in a longitudinal direction of the connection structure (S) and prevents displacement of the engagement section (22) in a direction of disengagement from the opening (12) when the locking element (24) is inserted to a predetermined position on the side of the first connector (1).