Connector Retention Clip for High-Acceleration Uncoupling Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug and receptacle connectors with built-in locking mechanisms are inadequate to maintain connection during high acceleration loading conditions, leading to potential disconnection and the need for hazardous and messy chemical adhesives for retention.
Innovation Solution
A connector retention clip system that includes a connector housing with multiple walls defining a connector opening to receive a coupled receptacle and plug connector, along with a cable housing to secure a cable, providing a mechanical barrier to prevent uncoupling and using snap-fit protrusions for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If chemical adhesives are used to maintain connector connection, then connection reliability under high acceleration is improved, but manufacturing complexity and safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces chemical adhesives with a mechanical retention system consisting of a retention clip and retention feature. The retention clip engages with the retention feature on the connector housing to provide mechanical retention under high acceleration conditions, eliminating the need for chemical adhesives and their associated safety hazards and manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention clip acts as an intermediary component between the connector housing and the plug connector. It provides a mechanical interface that secures the connector without requiring direct chemical bonding, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining connection reliability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If chemical adhesives are used to prevent connector separation, then connection stability is improved, but maintenance time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical retention system replaces chemical adhesives, allowing for quick release and reattachment of connectors. The retention clip can be easily disengaged and reengaged without requiring adhesive removal or reapplication, significantly reducing maintenance time while maintaining connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention system is divided into separate components (retention clip and retention feature) that can be independently manipulated. This segmentation allows the retention clip to be quickly removed and reattached during maintenance, eliminating the time-consuming process of working with chemical adhesives.
3Device complexity
If built-in locking mechanisms are used in connectors, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability under high acceleration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the built-in locking mechanism with an additional retention clip system. The retention clip works in conjunction with the existing locking mechanism to provide enhanced reliability under high acceleration conditions, while adding minimal complexity to the overall connector structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention clip is designed to dynamically respond to acceleration forces. It maintains engagement under normal conditions and provides additional securing force during high acceleration events, adapting to the operational demands without requiring a completely redesigned connector structure.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C
Figure 2A~2C
AI summary
A connector retention clip (101) is disclosed. The connector retention clip (101) can include a connector housing (110) having a plurality of connector walls (111a-e) defining a connector opening (112) operable to receive a coupled receptacle and plug connector (104) therein. The plurality of connector walls (111a-e) can include a receptacle end wall (111c) and a plug end wall (111d) operable to extend about ends of the receptacle (102) and plug (103), respectively, to provide a mechanical barrier preventing uncoupling of the coupled receptacle and plug connector (104). In addition, the connector retention clip (101) can include a cable housing (120) extending from the connector housing (110). The cable housing (120) can have at least one cable wall (121a-c) defining a cable opening (122) operable to receive a cable (105) therein that extends from the coupled receptacle and plug connector (104).