Electric Connector Self-Locking Mechanism for Vibration Resistance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric connectors in harsh environments, such as aviation, face challenges in maintaining a secure vibration-proof connection while allowing for easy maintenance, as prior solutions either increase installation time or require specific tools and are costly due to the need for removal of sealing liquids for inspection.
Innovation Solution
An electric connector design featuring an inner and outer part connected coaxially and rotatably, with a self-locking mechanism using anti-rotation elements and latching elements, along with a torque setting means to ensure secure engagement without the need for tools, and a sealing O-ring for environmental protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If thread-lockers or wire ties are used to prevent loosening under vibration, then connection stability is improved, but installation time increases and specific tools are required
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a self-locking mechanism where the outer part automatically locks to the inner part through a self-contained anti-rotation element and latching element system, eliminating the need for external thread-lockers or wire ties. The mechanism self-activates upon insertion, providing vibration resistance without requiring additional installation steps or tools.
2Reliability
If hardening sealing liquid is applied to secure the connection, then vibration resistance is improved, but maintenance time and cost increase due to the need for removal during inspection
Solution Approach 1:
The self-locking mechanism maintains vibration resistance through its mechanical anti-rotation and latching design, which does not require hardening sealing liquids. The connection remains secure under vibration while allowing for easy maintenance, as the locking mechanism can be released and re-engaged without time-consuming removal procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector employs a dynamic locking system where the latching element can transition between locked and unlocked states, providing both vibration resistance during operation and ease of maintenance during inspection. The anti-rotation element prevents loosening while the latching mechanism allows controlled access for maintenance activities.
3Reliability
If a self-locking mechanism with anti-rotation elements is used, then vibration-proof connection is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-rotation element and latching element are integrated into the outer part of the connector as a unified self-locking mechanism, rather than being separate components. This merging reduces the number of parts and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining vibration-proof connection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The outer part serves multiple functions: it provides the connection interface, contains the self-locking mechanism, and incorporates both anti-rotation and latching elements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby reducing device complexity while achieving reliable vibration-proof connection.
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 design provides a vibration-proof connection that is easy to maintain, reduces installation time, and ensures secure engagement without the need for specialized tools, while maintaining environmental sealing and preventing fretting corrosion.
Implementation Method 1
The self-locking mechanism comprises at least one locking element configured to be elastically deflectable and pressed against a locking surface
Implementation Method 2
The O-ring is compressed between the inner part and the outer part, providing environmental sealing
Data Source
AI summary
An electric connector connectable to a mating electric connector includes and inner part, an outer part and a self-locking mechanism. The inner part is adapted to be connected to an electrical conductor. The outer part is adapted to connect to the mating electric connector. The inner and outer parts are connected coaxially and rotatably to one another. The self-locking mechanism selectively blocks rotation of one of the inner or outer parts with respect to the other one of the inner or outer parts in a first circumferential direction, and permits rotation of one of the inner or outer parts with respect to the other one of the inner or outer parts in a second circumferential direction opposite the first circumferential direction.