Connector Locking Mechanism for Stable Detachable Engagement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connector devices allow for the simple separation of connector portions, leading to potential disconnection during use.

Innovation Solution

A connector device with a lock mechanism that includes a first lock portion with an actuator and pin engagement groove, and a second lock portion with a recess and projection, which restricts the separation of the connector portions while allowing easy detachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the first connector portion is simply electrically connected to the second connector portion, then the connector device allows for easy attachment and detachment, but the first connector portion may separate from the second connector portion during use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment and detachmentVSAvoidconnection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connector device is divided into two separate connector portions (first and second) that can be independently attached and detached. Each connector portion has corresponding engagement structures (protrusions and recesses) that segment the locking function into distributed contact points, allowing easy attachment while preventing separation through multiple engagement points

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The engagement structures are nested within the connector portions, with protrusions fitting into corresponding recesses. The lock mechanism is nested within the housing structures, creating a compact design where the locking components are integrated into the overall connector geometry without adding external bulk

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS12438306B2Connector device with locking mechanism
Publication Date: 2025.10.07 AUTONETWORKS TECH LTD
  • US12438306B2 patent drawing
  • US12438306B2 patent drawing
  • US12438306B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The connector device is configured so that a first connector part and a second connector part are detachable. The connector device has a first lock part constituting a lock part that engages in the attachment/detachment direction between the first connector part and the second connector part.