Connector Semi-Fitting Detection Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connector devices face issues with detecting a semi-fitted state between connectors, leading to potential defects in conduction when mounted to a panel, requiring reattachment and additional work.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a semi-fitting detection portion that projects from the frame when connectors are semi-fitted, preventing mounting and allowing visual detection of the semi-fitted state, along with a lever pre-locking mechanism to facilitate detection without additional components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If connectors are fitted together before mounting to the panel, then the mounting process is simplified and no working space is needed for lever operation, but there is no way to detect a semi-fitted state which can cause conduction defects
Solution Approach 1:
The semi-fitting detection portion projects from the frame in advance to prevent mounting when connectors are semi-fitted. This preliminary detection mechanism allows the operator to identify incomplete fitting before the mounting operation occurs, avoiding conduction defects while maintaining the simplified pre-assembly approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection portion provides visual feedback about the fitting state through its projection status. When the second connector is semi-fitted, the detection portion projects from the frame, giving immediate visual feedback to the operator that the fitting is incomplete and should not be mounted.
2Reliability
If a detection mechanism is added to detect semi-fitted state, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The semi-fitting detection portion is merged with the existing frame structure rather than being a separate component. The detection portion is integrated into the frame in such a way that it projects when needed, combining the detection function with the structural element already present in the connector assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection portion automatically indicates the fitting state through its own projection from the frame without requiring external sensors or complex detection systems. The structure itself serves the detection function, eliminating the need for additional complex components.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If the detection portion is made to project from the frame, then semi-fitted state is easily visible, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The detection portion is extracted as a distinct functional element from the main frame structure, allowing it to project independently when the second connector is semi-fitted. This extraction enables clear visual detection while keeping the integration with the frame relatively simple.
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 preliminary detection of a semi-fitted state, preventing defective mounting and allowing for visual confirmation, thus avoiding reattachment and reducing work effort.
Implementation Method 1
a semi-fitting detection portion which is located at a non-projecting position below a peripheral surface of the frame of the first connector and is shifted to a projecting position to project from the peripheral surface of the frame by a pressing force
Implementation Method 2
a lever 110 rotatably supported by the frame 103. The lever 110 rotates about a rotation support 111 within a range from a fitting start operation position (the position shown in FIG. 2) to a fitting end operation position (the position shown in FIG. 3)
Implementation Method 3
The lever 110 is provided with a pair of cam grooves 112. The pair of cam grooves 112 are open at the same position as the pair of pin clearance holes 104 when the lever 110 is located at the fitting start operation position. The cam pins 122 move in the cam grooves 112 so as to gradually bring the second connector 120 into the connector fitting chamber 103a
Implementation Method 4
The panel locking portions 106 then come into contact with the peripheral edge of the mounting hole 131. By further applying the insertion force thereto, the panel locking portions 106 are elastically deformed inward so that the insertion of the frame 103 is allowed
Data Source
AI summary
A connector device is provided in which a fitting force acts on a female connector and a male connector by operating a lever from a fitting start operation position to a fitting end operation position. The connector device includes a semi-fitting detection portion and a pressing portion. The semi-fitting detection portion is located at a non-projecting position below a peripheral surface of a frame of the female connector and is shifted to a projecting position to project from the peripheral surface of the frame by a pressing force. The pressing portion is provided in the male connector, presses and shifts the semi-fitting detection portion to the projecting position when located at a fitting halfway position before a fitting end position, and stops pressing the semi-fitting detection portion when located at the fitting end position so as to shift the semi-fitting detection portion to the non-projecting position.