Connector Terminal Locking Structure for Correct Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors allow for incorrect insertion of terminal members due to gaps between the terminal member and intersecting wall surfaces, leading to improper engagement and potential misalignment, and the formation of openings that can confuse workers about complete insertion.
Innovation Solution
The connector design includes a terminal member with pairs of raised pieces along its edges and a housing with guided movement features, such as projections and elastic locking pieces, to prevent engagement with incorrect openings and ensure proper alignment during insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If raised pieces are formed on the terminal member to stabilize posture during insertion, then insertion stability is improved, but the terminal member structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal member is segmented into functional zones: the raised pieces (protrusions) are separated from the main body, creating distinct engagement features. This segmentation allows the raised pieces to independently stabilize the terminal member during insertion without complicating the overall structure, as each segment serves a specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The raised pieces are pre-formed on the terminal member during manufacturing, establishing the correct insertion posture before the actual insertion process begins. This preliminary positioning action prevents misalignment and ensures stable engagement with the locking piece from the outset, eliminating the need for complex adjustment mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple openings are provided on the terminal member, then engagement flexibility is improved, but the risk of incorrect engagement increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different openings are assigned different local qualities and functions: the first opening is designed for elastic engagement with the locking piece, while the second opening is positioned and sized to be accessible but not engageable. This local differentiation ensures that only the correct opening (first opening) can provide secure engagement, preventing incorrect assembly while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking piece acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the two openings. Its elastic properties and specific geometry allow it to selectively engage with the first opening while preventing engagement with the second opening, thus ensuring engagement accuracy despite the presence of multiple openings.
3Ease of operation
If the locking piece can engage with the second opening during insertion, then ease of insertion is improved, but incorrect assembly perception occurs
Solution Approach 1:
While not using actual color changes, the invention employs visual and tactile differentiation: the first opening is designed to provide a distinct engagement feel and visual indication when the locking piece engages, whereas the second opening does not provide such feedback. This differentiation ensures that workers can clearly distinguish correct engagement from incorrect positioning, preventing loss of insertion completion information.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement of the locking piece with the first opening provides positive feedback through a distinct tactile sensation and visual indication, confirming correct insertion. The second opening is designed so that any interaction with it does not provide misleading feedback, ensuring that workers receive accurate information about insertion completion status.
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 configuration stabilizes the terminal member's posture, guides correct insertion, and prevents incorrect assembly by ensuring the elastic locking piece engages only with the intended opening, thereby enhancing the accuracy and reliability of the connector assembly process.
Implementation Method 1
a housing (22, 222, 322, 422, 522) having a terminal hole (34, 234, 334, 434) and an elastic locking piece (56A, 256A, 356A, 456A)
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a housing having an elastic locking piece and a terminal hole defining a terminal receptacle compartment extending in an insertion direction; and a terminal member to be inserted into the terminal receptacle compartment from rear to front along the insertion direction, wherein the terminal member has a first opening configured to be engaged with the locking piece when the connector is assembled, and a second opening defined on the front side of the first opening, and wherein a projection is formed on the terminal member and prevents the locking piece from being engaged with the second opening when the terminal member is inserted or removed, which prevents a user from wrongly perceiving that the insertion of the terminal member is completed despite not having achieved engagement between the locking piece and the first opening.