Connector Miniaturization via Overlapping Deformation Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors are large in height due to the arrangement of terminal accommodating chambers, locking lances, and deformation spaces, which hinders miniaturization.
Innovation Solution
The connector design includes first and second terminal fitting accommodating chambers arranged at an angle, with resiliently deformable locking lances and deformation spaces that overlap, allowing for miniaturization by utilizing space effectively and incorporating a retainer with deformation restricting portions and a jig insertion groove to manage deformation and prevent excessive deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If terminal accommodating chambers, locking lances and deformation spaces are arranged one after another in upper and lower levels, then locking function is ensured, but connector height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a vertical stacking arrangement (upper and lower levels) to a lateral arrangement where deformation spaces are positioned side-by-side with terminal accommodating chambers. This dimensional change allows the connector to maintain locking functionality while reducing height, as the deformation spaces no longer extend the connector in the vertical direction but instead occupy lateral space.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformation spaces are arranged to overlap laterally with terminal accommodating chambers, creating a nested-like configuration where functional elements are interlaced rather than sequentially stacked. This nesting approach allows multiple functional components to coexist in a compact arrangement, reducing overall connector height while maintaining all necessary functions.
2Length of stationary object
If deformation spaces are arranged laterally to reduce height, then miniaturization is achieved, but space utilization becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric arrangement where the second terminal accommodating chamber is positioned at an angle to the first terminal accommodating chambers, and deformation spaces are strategically placed to overlap with specific chambers. This asymmetric design optimizes space utilization by preventing uniform distribution of components, thereby reducing height while managing complexity through deliberate non-uniform positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the connector are assigned different functional qualities: some areas contain terminal accommodating chambers, others contain deformation spaces, and these are locally optimized to overlap in specific patterns. This local differentiation allows complex space utilization to be managed through region-specific design rather than uniform complexity throughout the structure.
3Reliability
If locking lances are made resiliently deformable for terminal retention, then terminal fitting retention is improved, but excessive deformation may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates deformation spaces positioned to receive and accommodate the deformation of locking lances during terminal insertion and retention. These pre-designed spaces act as cushions that guide and limit the deformation process, ensuring that locking lances can flex sufficiently to retain terminal fittings while preventing excessive or uncontrolled deformation that would compromise structural integrity.
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
This design achieves miniaturization by overlapping deformation spaces with terminal accommodating chambers, allowing for a more compact connector structure while maintaining functionality and preventing improper connection postures.
Implementation Method 1
The respective locking lances 4 are resiliently deformable upon inserting and withdrawing the terminal fittings 2, and are retracted into deformation spaces 5 defined above the locking lances 2 during the resilient deformations of the locking lances 2
Data Source
AI summary
First terminal fitting accommodating chambers (61A) are arranged in a width direction in a housing (41) of a connector (40) for receiving first terminal fittings (42). A second terminal fitting accommodating chamber (61B) for receiving a second terminal fitting (42) is adjacent the first terminal fitting accommodating chambers (61A) in a height direction and between the first terminal fitting accommodating chambers (61A) in the width direction. First lances (64A) are in the first terminal fitting accommodating chambers (61A) for engaging the inserted terminal fittings (42) and are deformable into first deformation spaces (65A) lateral to the second terminal fitting accommodating chamber (61B). A second lance (64B) is in the second terminal fitting accommodating chamber (61B) for engaging the second terminal fitting (42) and is deformable into a second deformation space (65B) between the first terminal fitting accommodating chambers (61A).