Connector Slider Mechanism for Staged Terminal Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector devices for electric vehicles require a large operation portion to prevent electric shock, making them larger and less compact, and lack a sufficient period between detection terminal and power terminal disconnection.
Innovation Solution
A connector device with a slider mechanism that allows the power terminal to be connected and disconnected independently of the detection terminal, providing a prolonged period for safe operator interaction and reducing the device's size by eliminating the need for an external slider.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a large operation portion is provided on the outer end of the connector in the radial direction to enable easy operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the connector size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operation portion is relocated from the radial outer end to the axial end of the connector housing. This dimensional shift allows the operation portion to be positioned at a location that does not increase the radial dimensions of the connector, thereby maintaining compact size while preserving ease of operation through accessible manual actuation at the axial end
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of extending the operation portion radially outward from the connector end, the design inverts the approach by positioning the operation portion at the axial end of the housing and having it act internally on the slider mechanism. This inversion eliminates the need for a large radial operation portion while maintaining operational accessibility
2Device complexity
If the detection terminal and power terminal are disconnected simultaneously, then the device complexity is reduced, but the operator may experience electric shock
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal disconnection process is segmented into two distinct phases through the slider mechanism. The detection terminal disconnects first when the slider moves to the intermediate position, while the power terminal disconnects later when the slider reaches the fully retracted position. This segmentation ensures safe disconnection sequencing without requiring additional complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The slider mechanism performs preliminary action by first disconnecting the detection terminal before disconnecting the power terminal. This preliminary disconnection of the detection circuit ensures that safety monitoring is established before power is removed, preventing electric shock to operators while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical implementation
Data Source
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AI summary
A connector device comprises a connector and a mating connector. The connector comprises a housing and a slider having a second regulated portion. The mating connector comprises a mating housing having a second regulation portion. The connector is movable between an open position and a closed position. The slider is held by the housing to be movable between a first position and a second position. When the connector is moved to a predetermined position together with the slider which is located at the second position upon a movement of the connector from the closed position toward the open position, the second regulated portion is brought into abutment with the second regulation portion, and a movement of the connector toward the open position beyond the predetermined position is regulated. When the slider is moved to the first position, the connector is movable to the open position.