Connector Assembly Locking Structure for Stable Mating
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies face issues with maintaining the reliability of the positional relationship between connectors due to external forces, which can lead to contact loosening or damage, affecting electrical conduction.
Innovation Solution
The connector assembly incorporates locking structures with locking holes and protrusions, and elastic locking arms to secure the connectors in place, preventing tilting and detachment, and includes design features like slots and tabs to enhance mating reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking structures are added to prevent connector loosening, then mating reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arm is integrated into the shell as a unified structure, combining the shell and locking mechanism into one component. This reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining the locking function, thereby improving reliability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking arm automatically engages with the locking protrusion when the connectors are mated, and automatically releases when the button is pressed. This self-actuating mechanism eliminates the need for separate locking operations or additional control systems, improving reliability while keeping the structure relatively simple.
2Reliability
If multiple locking structures are used to prevent detachment, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arm automatically engages with the locking protrusion during the mating process without requiring separate locking actions. The single button operation triggers the automatic release mechanism, making the connector easy to operate while maintaining reliable connection through the automatic locking engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking arm is designed as a movable component that can flex between locked and unlocked positions. This dynamic structure allows automatic engagement during mating and simple release via button pressure, balancing reliability with ease of operation.
3Device complexity
If the locking arm structure is simplified, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability may deteriorate due to insufficient anti-loosening capability
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arm is integrated into the shell structure, combining two components into one. This simplification reduces device complexity while the arm's geometric design with its free end and engagement features maintains the necessary anti-loosening capability through its inherent mechanical leverage.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector includes a first insulating body, a number of first conductive terminals, and a circuit board. The circuit board includes an input end and an output end. The input end includes an input portion electrically connected to the first conductive terminals. The output end includes an insertion portion protruding beyond the first insulating body. The second connector includes a second insulating body and a number of second conductive terminals. The first connector and the second connector further include locking structures to prevent the first connector from being separated from the second connector.