Connector Locking Lever Inversion for Compact Panel Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection systems for electronic equipment in outdoor environments, particularly in telecommunications and surveillance networks, face challenges such as large size, complex assembly, and high risk of breakage due to the bulkiness of locking levers and the need for dedicated space between connectors.
Innovation Solution
A connection system with integrated locking lugs on the equipment panel allows for a more compact design by reversing the location of locking levers on the plugs, reducing the space required between connectors and enhancing mechanical strength through adjacent plug support, while also incorporating physical and visual coding for correct plug orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking levers are mounted on each base to lock plugs to sockets, then reliable locking is achieved, but the bulk between adjacent sockets increases and connector density decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional locking mechanism by moving the locking lever from the base (socket side) to the plug itself. The locking lever is now mounted on the plug body and engages with locking lugs on the base, reversing the traditional arrangement. This inversion allows the locking mechanism to be more compact and reduces the bulk between adjacent connectors while maintaining reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the locking mechanism with the plug body structure. The locking lever is integrated into the plug assembly rather than being a separate component on the base. This consolidation reduces the overall space required for the connection system and eliminates the need for separate locking mechanisms on each base, thereby increasing connector density.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connectors are installed on a panel, then connection functionality increases, but assembly time increases due to dedicated assembly for each connector
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection system into modular components: the plug assembly with integrated locking lever, the base with locking lugs, and the panel with openings. Each connector can be independently assembled and tested before installation, allowing for parallel assembly processes. The modular design enables multiple connectors to be prepared simultaneously, reducing overall assembly time while maintaining full connection functionality.
3Volume of moving object
If electronic equipment size is reduced to increase function density, then compactness improves, but the minimum bulk required for locking systems increases relative to the total size
Solution Approach 1:
By inverting the locking mechanism arrangement and mounting the lever on the plug rather than the base, the patent achieves a more space-efficient configuration. The locking lever on the plug can engage with lugs on the base in a more compact arrangement, reducing the minimum bulk required for the locking system relative to the overall equipment size.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking lever on the plug serves multiple functions: it provides the locking action, acts as a manual operation element for engagement and disengagement, and integrates with the plug body structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing the bulk ratio of the locking system within the compact equipment.
4Reliability
If locking lugs are mounted on bases attached to equipment panels, then secure locking is achieved, but the risk of breakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the locking mechanism by placing the locking lever on the plug and the locking lugs on the base. This inversion moves the pivoting, moving component (the lever) to the removable plug rather than the fixed base, reducing the risk of breakage to the permanently mounted base assembly while maintaining secure locking.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~8
AI summary
The present invention relates to a connection system comprising: - a plurality of connection plugs (6), each of which is mounted a locking lever (62) with two arms (64, 65), each arm supporting a locking hook (66, 67) of a locking system (5); - an assembly comprising: • a panel (2) of an electronic equipment enclosure, intended to house an electronic circuit board (3), the panel comprising a plurality of openings; • a plurality of adjacent sockets (4). According to the invention, the plurality of sockets is integral with the equipment panel, and the sockets and plugs are configured such that when each plug is connected to one of the sockets and locked to it by means of the locking lever in the position where the hooks engage with the locking lugs of the socket, two adjacent arms of adjacent plugs are in planar, linear, or point contact with each other.