Connector Retainer Slit Structure for Easier Unlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors with movable retainers have complex structures due to specially processed ribs and disengaging projections, complicating the unlocking operation.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a housing with cavities, lock receiving portions, and a deflectable deflecting piece with a slit that allows a releasing jig to be inserted for unlocking, simplifying the structure without complicating it.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rib and disengaging projection are specially processed on the housing and retainer, then the unlocking operation can be performed, but the structures of the housing and retainer become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the unlocking function from the complex rib and disengaging projection structure by introducing a separate releasing jig. The jig includes a guiding portion that interacts with the retainer through a simplified groove structure, separating the unlocking mechanism from the housing and retainer structures themselves. This allows the unlocking operation to be performed without requiring complex specially processed features on the main components.
Solution Approach 2:
The releasing jig acts as an intermediary tool that mediates the unlocking operation. Instead of directly engaging complex disengaging projections on the retainer, the jig's guiding portion interacts with a simpler groove structure on the retainer and a corresponding guiding structure on the housing. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the structural requirements while enabling the same unlocking function.
2Ease of operation
If a releasing jig with guiding portion is introduced, then the unlocking operation becomes easier, but additional components are added
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding portion on the releasing jig is designed as a simplified copy or representation of the locking mechanism's engagement path. Instead of replicating the complex disengaging projection structure, the jig creates a corresponding guiding structure that mirrors the functional path needed for unlocking. This allows the jig to interact with the retainer and housing through simplified groove and guiding portion interfaces, achieving the unlocking function without requiring the retainer to have complex specially processed features.
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
Enables smooth unlocking of the retainer without complicating the structure, ensuring easy insertion and removal of terminal fittings while maintaining sealing integrity.
Implementation Method 1
the deflecting piece is deflectable and deformable
Data Source
AI summary
A housing (10) includes a plurality of cavities (14), a first lock receiving portion (21) arranged to correspond to one cavity (14) and a second lock receiving portion (22) arranged to correspond to another cavity (14). A retainer (60) is arranged in the housing (10) to restrict terminal fittings (50) from coming out from the cavities (14). The retainer (60) includes a deflectable and deformable deflecting piece (71). The deflecting piece (71) includes a first locking portion (73) for locking the first lock receiving portion (21), a second locking portion (74) for locking the second lock receiving portion (22) and a slit (72) arranged between the first locking portion (73) and the second locking portion (74). The slit (72) is open in a separating direction of the retainer (60) from the housing (10).