Connector Locking Ring Asymmetry for Vibration Resistance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking systems for connector assemblies in aeronautical and automobile applications fail to maintain connection during extreme vibrations or jolts, leading to accidental disconnections due to spring compression and notch movement.
Innovation Solution
A secure locking system comprising a cylindrical plug body with a threaded locking ring, a toothed washer, a retaining pin, and an upper ring with a lever, featuring a ramp-shaped groove and spring configuration that prevents unlocking during vibrations, allowing manual locking and unlocking by direction of rotation, and visual cues for confirmation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking ring with notches and a ball-spring mechanism is used, then the connector can be locked in position, but the spring compresses under strong vibrations causing the ball to move into the housing and the notches to slide, leading to accidental unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is divided into distinct functional segments: the locking ring with notches for positioning, the ball for engagement, the housing with spring mechanism for retention, and the lever for operation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while reducing the propagation of vibrational forces through the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is pre-configured to cushion and absorb the impact of vibrations before they can cause the ball to move into the housing. The spring is designed with appropriate preload and stiffness to counteract the forces generated during vibration, maintaining the ball in its engagement position with the notches.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple notches are provided in the locking ring for locking positions, then the connector can be locked at multiple positions, but the notches create movement paths that allow accidental disconnection during vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The notches are designed with asymmetric geometry, having different entry and exit angles. This asymmetry creates a ratchet-like effect where the ball can easily enter the notch during locking but requires significant force to exit, preventing accidental disconnection during vibrations while maintaining multiple locking positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The vibrational forces that could potentially cause accidental unlocking are converted into a beneficial effect by the asymmetric notch design. The vibrations cause the ball to press more firmly against the notched surface, enhancing the locking effect rather than weakening it.
3Ease of manufacture
If a threaded locking ring is used to screw onto the connection element, then the locking mechanism can be secured, but the thread pitch is not sufficient to maintain the connection during vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The locking ring is designed to be pre-threaded onto the connection element during assembly, establishing the initial mechanical engagement before the connector is subjected to service conditions. This preliminary action ensures proper alignment and engagement of the threading, creating a stable base that resists vibrational forces.
4Ease of operation
If the locking system uses a ball and spring mechanism with notches, then manual locking and unlocking is enabled, but the mechanism becomes complex with multiple moving parts that increase the risk of failure
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into single components: the locking ring serves both as the mounting structure and the positioning element with notches; the ball serves as both the engagement element and the indicator; the housing integrates the spring mechanism and the lever operation. This merging reduces the total number of separate components while maintaining all necessary functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The lever serves multiple functions: it acts as the operating handle for manual locking and unlocking, provides mechanical advantage to overcome spring force, and serves as a visual indicator of the locking state. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.
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 system effectively maintains the connection under extreme conditions, reduces manufacturing costs by minimizing parts, and provides tactile feedback for locking, ensuring the connector remains locked during vibrations and jolts while allowing easy manual unlocking.
Implementation Method 1
a spring able to bear on the ball and compress it into the housing
Implementation Method 2
a ramp spring (39), configured so that the movement of the locking or unlocking of the upper ring (28) is movable and the locking ring (23) is fixed
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a secure locking and unlocking system comprising a cylindrical plug body (20), a locking ring (23), a serrated washer (37), one face of which is positioned on the locking surface of the locking ring (23), a retaining pin (25) for locking the position of a locking element (27), an upper ring (28) mounted on the locking ring (23), the locking element (27), the locking ring (23) having a groove, said ramp-shaped groove (36) having a linear portion, then an ascending ramp and a descending ramp, a ramp spring (39), configured so that the locking or unlocking movement of the upper ring (28) is mobile and the locking ring (23) is fixed,The upper ring (28) has a hole in which a lug (35) is positioned, the end of which cooperates with the ramp-shaped groove of the locking ring (23), guiding the upper ring (28) relative to the locking ring (23).