Universal Connector Support Assembly with Interchangeable Inserts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for assembling electrical connectors are inefficient and labor-intensive due to the need for multiple specialized connector supports for each type of connector, leading to high costs and time consumption.
Innovation Solution
A universal connector support assembly with interchangeable inserts, featuring a common base connection interface and varying shell connection interfaces, along with a feature recognition system to ensure proper orientation and alignment of connectors during assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple specialized connector supports are used for each type of connector, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal connector support system where a single base support structure can accommodate multiple different connector types through interchangeable positioning fixtures. The base support includes a standardized interface that accepts various positioning elements tailored to different connector geometries, eliminating the need for multiple specialized supports while maintaining assembly precision for each connector type.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector support system is divided into modular components: a universal base support structure and interchangeable positioning fixtures. Each fixture is designed for specific connector types but all interface with the same base, allowing precise positioning without requiring a complete specialized support for each connector variant.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple specialized connector supports are used for each type of connector, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to manual securing
Solution Approach 1:
The universal base support is pre-configured with standardized interfaces and mounting features that accommodate various connector types. Positioning fixtures are pre-designed for specific connector geometries, allowing rapid selection and attachment without time-consuming manual adaptation or securing processes during assembly.
3Device complexity
If a universal connector support with interchangeable inserts is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
While the base support structure is universal, each interchangeable positioning fixture is specifically designed with local geometric features tailored to match particular connector types. This ensures that each connector type receives customized positioning precision appropriate to its geometry, even within the universal support framework.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector support assembly is configured to securely retain a mating connector during an assembling process of an electrical connector. The connector support assembly includes a universal base, and a plurality of inserts configured to be interchangeably retained by the universal base. Each of the inserts includes a base connection interface that is configured to be retained by the universal base, and at least one shell connection interface. The shell connection interface(s) of at least two of the inserts are configured to retain different sized shells of different mating connectors.