Connector Module Retainer That Blocks Terminal Unlocking Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
In existing connector designs, operators often forget to move the terminal locking member from the final locking position to the pre locking position, leading to accidental unlocking and potential damage when attempting to remove the terminal.
Innovation Solution
A connector module with a terminal locking member that is movable between pre locking and final locking positions, featuring a tool insertion port that is blocked by the locking member in the final position, preventing accidental unlocking by an operating tool, and incorporating design elements like engagement slots and elastic arms to maintain the locking member in the correct position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the terminal locking member is designed to be movable between pre locking and final locking positions, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal locking member is designed to be movable between a pre-locking position and a final locking position, transitioning from a static to a dynamic structure. This allows the locking member to adapt to different operational states (insertion, locking, unlocking) while maintaining reliable terminal retention, thereby improving locking reliability without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: the terminal locking member with blocking part, the locking spring, and the terminal. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall design while achieving reliable multi-position locking
2Reliability
If the tool insertion port is blocked by the terminal locking member in the final locking position, then the safety against accidental unlocking is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking part of the terminal locking member acts as an intermediary that physically prevents the operating tool from entering the terminal slot when in the final locking position. This intermediary mechanism ensures safety against accidental unlocking while maintaining ease of operation, as the blocking function is automatic and requires no additional user action
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal locking member automatically performs the blocking action preliminary to any potential unlocking attempt. By positioning the blocking part to cover the tool insertion port before the operator can insert a tool, the design prevents accidental unlocking without requiring the operator to take additional precautions or follow complex procedures
3Reliability
If the terminal locking member blocks the tool insertion port in the final locking position, then the prevention of misoperation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking function is merged with the terminal locking member itself rather than being a separate component. The blocking part is integrated into the locking member structure, allowing it to perform both the locking function and the blocking function simultaneously. This merging approach prevents misoperation without significantly increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal locking member is designed with multi-functionality: it provides the primary locking action, maintains the locked state, and simultaneously blocks the tool insertion port. This universal design allows a single component to perform multiple functions, preventing misoperation while avoiding the need for additional separate blocking mechanisms that would increase complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention discloses a connector module, a connector, and a connector assembly. The connector module comprises of: an insulator (1) formed with a terminal slot (101) for accommodating a terminal (3) and a tool insertion port (12) communicated with the terminal slot (101); and a terminal locking member (2) installed on the insulator (1) and movable between a pre locking position separated from the terminal (3) and a final locking position engaged with the terminal (3). When the terminal locking member (2) is in the pre locking position, the tool insertion port (12) is not blocked by the terminal locking member (2) to allow an operating tool (4) to be inserted into the terminal slot (101) through the tool insertion port (12) to drive a locking spring (31) of the terminal (3) to an unlocking position separated from the insulator (1). When the terminal locking member (2) is in the final locking position, the tool insertion port (12) is blocked by the terminal locking member (2) to prevent the operating tool (4) from being inserted into the terminal slot (101) through the tool insertion port (12), thereby preventing the locking spring (31) of the terminal (3) from being accidentally unlocked by the operating tool (4). In the present invention, the operating tool for unlocking the locking spring of the terminal cannot be inserted into the terminal slot when the terminal locking member is in the final locking position. Therefore, it can avoid the problem of accidentally unlocking the locking spring when the terminal locking member is in the final locking position, thereby preventing operators from mis operating and improving the safety of connector use.