Electrical Connector Snap-Fit Locking Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector locking systems, such as those using thumbscrews and jack-sockets, are tedious and time-consuming to engage and disengage, especially when multiple connectors need frequent access or when access is limited.
Innovation Solution
A locking system featuring socket fittings on the male connector and mating studs on the female connector, which snap together to create a secure connection and can be easily disengaged with lateral movement, replacing the traditional thumbscrew and jack-socket system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If thumbscrews and jack-sockets are used for locking, then secure connection is achieved, but engagement and disengagement becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional thumbscrew locking mechanism by replacing it with a snap-fit system where the locking action occurs automatically upon insertion. The socket fitting with resilient walls and the stud with flange create an automatic mechanical interlock that secures the connector without requiring manual threading or tightening actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the manual threading operation from the locking process. By removing the threaded portion entirely and replacing it with a snap-fit mechanism involving resilient walls and a flange, the time-consuming screwing action is eliminated while maintaining secure connection through automatic mechanical engagement.
2Reliability
If thumbscrews are used for locking, then secure connection is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to limited access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the manual operation requirement by designing an automatic snap-fit system. The resilient walls of the socket fitting automatically engage with the flange of the stud upon insertion, eliminating the need for manual thumbscrew operation and making the system accessible even in confined spaces where hand access is limited.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system performs the securing action automatically through the interaction between the resilient socket walls and the rigid stud flange. The system serves itself by creating the mechanical interlock without human intervention, simply requiring insertion motion that is accessible even in tight spaces.
3Reliability
If multiple connectors need frequent engagement, then connection security is maintained, but time consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the sequential manual operation by implementing simultaneous snap-fit engagement across multiple connectors. The resilient socket fittings automatically engage with stud flanges in a single insertion motion, allowing multiple connections to be secured simultaneously rather than requiring individual thumbscrew operations for each connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The socket fittings are pre-configured with resilient walls in a ready-to-engage state, and the studs are pre-configured with flanges positioned for immediate interlocking. This preliminary preparation allows multiple connectors to engage rapidly without requiring sequential manual adjustment or tightening actions.
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 new locking system provides a fast and secure connection that is easier to engage and disengage, reducing the time and effort required for multiple connections and improving accessibility in confined spaces.
Implementation Method 1
the socket fitting includes a body portion with longitudinally extending resilient walls that are biased in an outwardly expanding direction
Implementation Method 2
the resilient walls engage the flange to lock the stud to the socket fitting
Data Source
AI summary
A locking mechanism for electrical connectors is disclosed. The locking mechanism comprises one or more sockets affixed to one of a pair of electrical connectors, e.g., a male electrical connector, and one or more mating studs affixed to the other of the pair of electrical connectors, e.g., a female electrical connector. The sockets lockingly engage the studs when the pair of electrical connectors are connected. The sockets are affixed to the male electrical by ribs, which form part of elongate socket fittings that also include the sockets, and socket fitting retainers. The studs are affixed to the female electrical connector by threads.