Connector Retainer Shell for Panel Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of a flexible and secure method to attach standard off-the-shelf harness assemblies with mating connectors to panels in mobile and automotive environments, particularly for USB and audio connectors, due to limitations in existing installation techniques that require custom modifications or specialized tools, and fail to provide reliable and aesthetic solutions.
Innovation Solution
A molded plastic connector shell that securely fits around standard electrical connector assemblies, allowing for easy snap, lock, or adhesive mounting on panels without requiring modifications to the connectors or specialized tools, accommodating various connector types and panel thicknesses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If custom locking pieces and over mold assemblies are used to attach connectors to panels, then the connector retention reliability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The solution divides the connector assembly into two functional parts: the standard off-the-shelf connector assembly and the separate custom retainer shell. The retainer shell is designed to accommodate the connector without requiring modifications to the connector itself, allowing standard connectors to be used while providing the necessary retention mechanism through the retainer's locking features that engage with the panel.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer shell acts as an intermediary component between the standard connector assembly and the panel. It provides the interface and retention mechanism without requiring modifications to either the connector or the panel, serving as a mediator that enables reliable attachment while maintaining compatibility with standard components.
2Reliability
If nut/thread assemblies are used to secure connectors to panels, then the installation security is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to limited rear access and need for specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of securing the connector from the rear of the panel using nuts or threads, the retainer shell is designed to be installed from the front side of the panel. The retainer incorporates locking features that engage with the panel front, allowing installation and securing operations to be performed from the accessible front side rather than requiring rear panel access.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer shell incorporates self-contained locking features that automatically engage with the panel when the retainer is installed. The spring-loaded locking mechanism and engagement features provide automatic retention without requiring specialized tools or complex installation procedures, enabling simple manual installation from the front side.
3Reliability
If factory modifications and special tooling are used for connector installation, then the connector retention is improved, but the adaptability to different connector types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer shell is designed with universal compatibility to accommodate multiple types of standard connector assemblies including USB connectors and audio jacks. The retainer's internal geometry and locking features are configured to work with various connector types without requiring custom tooling or modifications, providing a single solution that serves multiple connector applications.
4Reliability
If custom made cables and precise panel modifications are used, then the connector installation reliability is improved, but the ease of manufacture and installation cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The solution separates the retention function from the connector assembly by using a distinct retainer shell component. This allows standard off-the-shelf connectors to be used without custom cable assemblies or precise panel modifications, while the retainer shell provides the necessary retention functionality through its own integrated locking and mounting features.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer shell serves as an intermediary that eliminates the need for precise panel modifications or custom cable assemblies. It provides a standardized interface that accommodates various connector types and secures them to the panel without requiring custom manufacturing of cables or precise modifications to the panel, simplifying both manufacturing and installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A retainer shell used to install in a mounting hole on a device panel designed to accommodate electrical connector from an end of a standard extension harness. The retainer shell is designed to lock securely in an opening of the device panel without specialized tools to be required for such installation. The locking retainer shell is designed to have simple and reliable front panel push action installation and provide front panel interconnect to a mating cable assembly as example with the opposite mating gender.