Connector Assembly With Single Securing Member for Stable Mating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connector assemblies for automotive applications face challenges in securing connectors and counter-connectors for stable and reliable electrical connections, often requiring complex tools and additional fasteners that may loosen over time, leading to inefficient assembly and disassembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly that utilizes a single securing member with multiple functions to secure both the connector onto a support and the counter-connector, featuring a threaded portion, standoff section, and ring section, allowing for simplified assembly and reduced component count, thereby enhancing stability and ease of use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate screws are used to secure the connector to the support and the counter-connector to the connector, then the connection stability is improved, but the device complexity and housing size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate fastening elements into a single integrated securing member that performs multiple functions: securing the connector to the support and securing the counter-connector to the connector. This merging reduces the total number of fastening elements while maintaining connection stability, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing member is designed as a multi-functional component that can secure different components (connector to support, counter-connector to connector) at different locations. This universal design allows one element to replace multiple specialized fasteners, reducing complexity while maintaining the reliability needed for stable electrical connections.
2Reliability
If multiple separate fastening elements are used, then the connection stability is improved, but the assembly and disassembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple fastening operations into a single securing member, the patent reduces the number of steps required for assembly and disassembly. The single securing member can be installed and removed in one operation, significantly reducing the time loss compared to multiple separate fastening elements while maintaining connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing member is designed with pre-configured engagement features that allow for quick alignment and installation. The preliminary design of the integrated structure enables rapid assembly without requiring multiple separate operations, thus reducing assembly time while ensuring stable connections.
3Reliability
If multiple separate fastening elements are used, then the connection reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost and supply chain complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate fastening elements into a single integrated securing member, which simplifies the manufacturing process. Instead of producing, managing inventory, and assembling multiple different fastening elements, the single securing member reduces manufacturing steps, lowers production costs, and simplifies supply chain management while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal design of the securing member that can perform multiple fastening functions reduces the variety of parts needed in the supply chain. This multi-functionality allows for standardization and simplification of manufacturing processes, reducing complexity and cost while ensuring reliable connections through its multi-purpose capability.
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
This solution provides a stable and reliable electrical connection with reduced complexity in assembly and disassembly, minimizing the risk of loosening and simplifying the supply chain management by using fewer parts, while maintaining structural integrity and efficient alignment of components.
Implementation Method 1
at least one securing member (7) extending longitudinally along a securing direction SD... a first securing section (8) configured to secure the connector (1) onto the support (5)... a second securing section (13) configured to secure the counter-connector (10) onto the connector (1)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a connector assembly including a support, a connector with a housing for first electrical terminals, a counter-connector with a housing for second electrical terminals to mate with the connector and securing members for longitudinal securing. The support accommodates the connector, and the securing members include a first section to secure the connector to the support and a second section to secure the counter-connector to the connector. This assembly provides a reliable and efficient connection system for electrical terminals, enhancing stability and ease of use in various applications.