Connector Position Assurance Device Independent Fulcrum Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
CPA devices integrated into fulcrum latches in electrical connectors often prevent the emission of audible clicks and tactile feels that indicate full mating, limiting the assurance of connector engagement.
Innovation Solution
A separate CPA device is implemented, independent of the fulcrum latch mechanism, using guide rails and a resilient stop to ensure the CPA device moves between mated and unmated positions without being unloaded, allowing for distinct indication of full mating and prevention of inadvertent separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the CPA device is integrated into the fulcrum latch mechanism, then the connector structure is compact, but the CPA device cannot emit clear audible click and tactile feel indicating full mating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connector into separate functional modules: the fulcrum latch mechanism and the CPA device are independent of each other. The latch mechanism handles the latching function while the CPA device independently provides mating indication through guide rails and a resilient stop, allowing each component to perform its function without interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The CPA device is extracted from the fulcrum latch mechanism and implemented as a separate structure using guide rails and a resilient stop. This extraction allows the CPA device to independently provide audible click and tactile feel feedback without being constrained by the latch mechanism's integrated design.
2Ease of operation
If the CPA device is integrated into the fulcrum latch, then the structure is simplified, but the CPA device movement is restricted and cannot provide clear mating feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The connector structure is segmented into independent functional components: the fulcrum latch mechanism and the CPA device with its own guide rails and resilient stop. This segmentation allows the CPA device to move freely within its dedicated guide rails without being constrained by the latch mechanism structure.
3Reliability
If the CPA device is held independently of the latch arm, then clear mating indication is achieved, but the connector structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The CPA device is extracted from the latch arm structure and implemented as an independent component with its own guide rails and resilient stop mechanism. This extraction enables the CPA device to provide clear audible click and tactile feel feedback while maintaining a manageable overall connector assembly structure.
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 solution enables clear visual and tactile feedback of full connector mating and prevents accidental separation, enhancing the reliability of electrical connections.
Implementation Method 1
the housing extends from a front to a rear and comprises a resiliently deflectable stop, the CPA device being configured to be loaded to the housing by deflecting the stop, wherein the stop restrains the CPA device from being unloaded from the housing once the CPA device has cleared the stop
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4
AI summary
An electrical connector (12) for mating with a mating connector (14) including a housing (32) and a fulcrum latch mechanism (18) having a latch arm (44) extending from a latching end (46) to an actuation end (48). The latch arm (44) is configured to rotate about a fulcrum (50) that is located along the length of the latch arm (44) between the latching and actuation ends (48) such that the latching end (46) is configured to move between a latched position and an unlatched position. A connector position assurance (CPA) device (30) is movably held by the housing (32) such that the CPA device (30) is configured to move relative to the housing (32) between a mated position and an unmated position. The CPA device (30) is movably held by the housing (32) independently of the latch arm.