Connector Position Assurance Latch Deflection Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector assemblies lack protection against excessive outward deflection of resilient latches, which can lead to improper unlocking when the plug connector is in a free state, and inadvertent inward deflection resulting in unlatching when mated with the receptacle connector.
Innovation Solution
A connector position assurance (CPA) system is introduced, featuring a base with a downwardly deflectable center arm and sidewardly deflectable side arms that enclose the center arm, providing engagement protrusions to maintain the latch in a blocked or releasing state, ensuring the latch is securely locked or released.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a resilient latch is used for locking the plug connector, then the locking mechanism is simple and effective, but the latch is vulnerable to excessive outward deflection causing improper unlocking and inadvertent inward deflection causing unlatching
Solution Approach 1:
The CPA component acts as an intermediary between the resilient latch and the external environment. It provides a controlled interface through engagement protrusions that interact with corresponding recesses on the latch, mediating the latch's movement and preventing both excessive outward deflection and inadvertent inward deflection while maintaining the simplicity of the resilient latch mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The CPA structure preemptively counteracts harmful deflections before they can cause improper unlocking or unlatching. The engagement protrusions on the CPA are positioned to block excessive outward movement of the latch, and the overall CPA geometry prevents inadvertent inward deflection, applying counter-actions in advance to offset potential adverse effects
2Device complexity
If the plug connector is left without protection structures, then the device complexity is low, but the latch is susceptible to improper deflection and unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The protection function is segmented into a separate CPA component rather than integrating complex protection structures directly into the plug connector housing. The CPA is a distinct element with engagement protrusions that work in conjunction with the latch, dividing the system into functional modules and maintaining overall structural simplicity while providing reliable position control
Solution Approach 2:
The CPA serves as a mediating component between the simple resilient latch and the requirements for position control. This intermediary structure provides the necessary protection against improper deflection without requiring complex integrated protection mechanisms, thus maintaining device simplicity while enhancing reliability
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 CPA system effectively prevents improper unlocking and unlatching by maintaining the latch in a controlled position, ensuring reliable locking and unlocking mechanisms, thereby enhancing the security and reliability of the electrical connector assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a deflectable/resilient latch for locking to a locking stand formed on the receptacle connector
Data Source
AI summary
A connector position assurance device (CPA) cooperated with a plug connector to ensure a latch of the plug connector located in a releasing state or a blocked state, includes a base including a downwardly deflectable center arm and a pair of sidewardly deflectable side arms enclosing the center arm in a transverse direction. The bottom surface of the center arm have an engagement protrusion, each side arms have an engagement protrusion which protruding in a transverse direction. The CPA is maintained in a front blocked position or a rear releasing position in the connector to ensure the latch blocked or released.