Connector Retention Shell Deflection Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Compact electronic devices face challenges in securely retaining internal electrical connectors in a mated position due to the need for reliable operation and cost-effective manufacturing, especially as components become smaller and more compact.
Innovation Solution
A retention mechanism is developed using a shell with a receiving opening and a rear face, featuring upper and lower walls and sidewalls that define a cavity, where the upper wall can be deflected or crimped to apply pressure on the connectors, or hingedly connected with a latching mechanism to secure them in place, utilizing materials like metal or thermoplastic and employing adhesives and absorbers for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional retention mechanisms are used to secure connectors, then reliability of connector retention is improved, but device compactness and cost-effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism is merged with the connector housing itself, where the housing includes a retention feature that directly engages with the connector. This integration eliminates the need for separate retention components, achieving reliable connector retention while maintaining device compactness and reducing manufacturing costs.
2Reliability
If traditional retention mechanisms are used to secure connectors, then reliability of connector retention is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism is integrated into the connector housing as a single molded or formed component, eliminating the need for separate retention parts and assembly steps. This reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while ensuring reliable connector retention through the built-in retention feature.
3Volume of moving object
If connector size is reduced to achieve compact devices, then device compactness is improved, but connector retention stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The retention feature is designed with specific local geometric characteristics that maximize engagement strength relative to the small connector size. The retention feature includes engagement surfaces and geometry optimized for stable connection, ensuring that even miniaturized connectors maintain reliable retention through locally optimized retention structures.
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 solution effectively secures electrical connectors in a mated position, ensuring reliable operation and ease of assembly while minimizing space and manufacturing costs, with the ability to withstand environmental stress and maintain connectors over time.
Implementation Method 1
at least a portion of the upper wall of the shell may be defected towards the lower wall of the shell. The shell may further be configured to retain the upper wall in the deflected position, applying pressure to the mated connectors and retaining them in the mated position.
Implementation Method 2
Other embodiments may retain the upper wall in a deflected position by hingedly connecting a portion of the upper wall to a sidewall of the shell
Data Source
AI summary
An improved electrical connector retainer employs a shell having a cavity. A pair of mated electrical connectors are received within the cavity and at least a portion of an upper wall of the shell is deflected towards a lower wall of the shell. The shell is configured to retain the upper wall in the deflected position, maintaining the pair of connectors in the mated position.