Separable Connector Undercut and Push-Pull Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional separable connector systems face difficulties in safely and easily separating connector assemblies due to interface adhesion, particularly when multiple connectors are involved, leading to deformation and ergonomic issues during twisting operations.
Innovation Solution
A push-then-pull operation method is implemented, where connectors are pushed together to shear interface adhesion, making it easier to pull them apart, with clearance regions and a latching mechanism designed to accommodate this movement, reducing the surface area of contact and latching force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If connectors are separated by twisting operation, then interface adhesion is sheared and separation becomes possible, but connector assemblies are deformed and operator injury occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing clearance regions that allow the connectors to be pushed together before pulling apart. This preliminary pushing action shears the interface adhesion between connectors, preparing the interface for easy separation without requiring violent twisting motions that cause deformation or injury.
2Reliability
If connector surface area is increased, then electrical connection reliability is improved, but separation difficulty increases due to greater adhesion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating an undercut segment at a specific location on the connector nose piece. This local geometric feature reduces the surface area of contact between connectors at the interface region, thereby reducing adhesion forces and making separation easier, while the rest of the connector maintains sufficient surface area for reliable electrical connection.
3Power
If multiple parallel connectors are used, then power distribution capacity is increased, but separation complexity increases due to simultaneous adhesion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by designing clearance regions that enable a pushing motion to be applied to all parallel connectors simultaneously. This preliminary push shears the interface adhesion across all connector pairs at once, converting a complex multi-point separation problem into a simple single-action operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Separating connector assemblies of a separable connector system. The separable connector assemblies include one or more pairs of connectors configured to engage and disengage one another in electrical connection and disconnection operations, respectively. An operator can disengage the connectors by pushing the connectors together and then pulling the connectors apart. Pushing the connectors together shears interface adhesion between the connectors, making it easier for the operator to pull the connectors apart. One of the connectors can include a nose end having an undercut segment configured to not engage an interior surface of the other connector when the connectors are engaged. Limiting the surface area of the nose end that interfaces with the interior surface of the other connector reduces surface adhesion and a pressure drop when separating the connectors, making separation easier to perform.