Connector Assembly With Single Securing Member for Compact Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies require separate screws for securing the connector to a support and the counter-connector, occupying significant space and complicating the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A single securing member is used to secure both the connector to the support and the counter-connector, eliminating the need for multiple screws and simplifying the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate screws are used to secure the connector to the support and the counter-connector, then the connector can be securely fastened, but the space required for fastening elements increases and the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate fastening functions into a single integrating fastening element. This element includes a first engagement portion that secures the connector housing to the support, and a second engagement portion that secures the counter-connector to the connector, thereby merging multiple fastening operations into one unified component and simplifying the assembly process while maintaining secure fastening
Solution Approach 2:
The integrating fastening element is designed with multi-functionality, serving both to anchor the connector housing to the support structure and to fasten the counter-connector to the connector. This universal fastening component eliminates the need for separate screws or fasteners, reducing part count and assembly steps while ensuring reliable securing of all components
2Reliability
If multiple screws are provided for fastening connector and counter-connector, then secure fastening is achieved, but the connector housing size must increase to accommodate all fastening elements
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the functions of multiple screws into a single integrating fastening element with multiple engagement portions, the patent reduces the number of fastening components needed. This consolidation allows the connector housing to be more compact, as it no longer needs to accommodate multiple separate fastening elements, while still achieving secure fastening of both the connector to the support and the counter-connector to the connector
3Ease of operation
If separate fastening elements are used for connector and counter-connector, then each can be secured independently, but the number of parts to manage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fastening operations into a single integrating fastening element that can be installed in one action. The element's design allows it to simultaneously or sequentially secure both the connector housing to the support and the counter-connector to the connector, reducing the number of parts to manage from multiple separate fasteners to just one unified component while maintaining the ability to secure each connection reliably
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A connector assembly (100) comprising a support (5), a connector (1), a counter-connector (10) and at least one securing member (7) extending longitudinally along a securing direction (SD), wherein - the support (5) is configured to receive the connector (1), - the connector (1) comprises a connector housing (2) to accommodate at least one first electrical terminal (3), and - the counter-connector (10) is configured to mate the connector (1) and comprises a counter-connector housing (11) to accommodate at least one second electrical terminal configured to be connected to said at least one first electrical terminal (3), characterized in that said at least one securing member (7) comprises a first securing section (8) configured to secure the connector (1) onto the support (5) and a second securing section (13) configured to secure the counter-connector (10) onto the connector (1).