Connector Resilient Lock Simplifies Sliding Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors with sliding mechanisms face complexity in locking structures due to the need for separate locking mechanisms for different positions, leading to a cumbersome mold structure and increased risk of interference with external objects.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a resilient lock that allows the operating member to be assembled at a position different from the initial and connection positions, using a combination of rotating and sliding mechanisms, with line-symmetrical locks to restrict displacement between these positions, simplifying the structure and reducing interference risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate locking mechanisms are provided for each position (initial and assembled), then the operating member can be reliably locked at each position, but the structure becomes complicated and the mold structure becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking functions into a single resilient lock mechanism. This single lock can lock the operating member at both the initial position and the assembled position, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms for each position. The resilient lock integrates the locking functions that would otherwise require multiple independent mechanisms, thereby simplifying the overall structure while maintaining reliable locking at all positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient lock is designed as a multi-functional component that performs multiple locking operations. It can lock the operating member at different positions (initial and assembled) and also serves as a spring element to provide the necessary force for locking and unlocking operations. This universal component replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized locking mechanisms.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the operating member is kept at the advanced position to avoid interference with external matter, then interference is reduced, but the operator cannot easily assemble or displace the slider at the connecting operation site
Solution Approach 1:
The operating member is pre-assembled at the assembled position, which is different from both the initial and connection positions. This preliminary assembly state allows the member to be prepared in advance with reduced lateral projection (minimizing interference risk) while still enabling easy displacement to the initial position for connection operations. The resilient lock holds this intermediate assembled position, facilitating both transportation and subsequent operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient lock provides a dynamic locking system that allows easy transition between positions. The operating member can be easily displaced from the assembled position to the initial position or connection position by overcoming the resilient lock's holding force, which is designed to be easily surmountable during normal operation. This dynamic characteristic enables flexible positioning while maintaining stability during transportation.
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 design simplifies the locking structure by using a single resilient lock to hold the operating member at both initial and assembled positions, reducing the likelihood of interference and eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms, thereby enhancing usability and manufacturing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient lock configured to lock the operating member at the assembled position to restrict a displacement of the operating member from the assembled position toward the initial position
Implementation Method 2
The operating member is configured to generate a connecting operation of the housings by cam engagement with the mating housing when the slider is displaced from the initial position to the connection position
Data Source
AI summary
An operating member (11) is displaceable to an assembled position, an initial position and a connection position with respect to a housing (10) and proceeds with a connecting operation of the housing and a mating housing (12) by cam engagement with the mating housing (12) when being displaced from the initial position to the connection position. The housing (10) includes resilient locks (25, 26) configured to restrict a displacement of the operating member (11) in a direction opposite to that from the assembled position toward the initial position by resiliently locking the operating member (11) at the assembled position and restrict a displacement of the operating member (11) in a return direction from the initial position to the assembled position by resiliently locking the operating member (11) at the initial position.