Low-Profile D-Sub Connector Interlocking Latch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing low-profile D-subshell connectors lack a reliable, easy-to-use, and cost-effective locking mechanism due to space limitations, which is essential for applications like aircraft video display units where space is premium.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile D-subshell connector system with interlocking components featuring a resilient latch and catch assembly, where the latch has an angled tab with a wide region and narrow neck, and a catch with a notch, allowing secure engagement and easy release, utilizing a combination of metal and plastic materials for durability and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to ensure reliable connection, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a resilient latch member with tab and neck portions, and a catch member with engagement surface and notch. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall simplicity and reliability of the connection system.
2Ease of operation
If a resilient tab locking mechanism is used, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient tab's physical parameters are carefully controlled - the width ratio between the tab and neck portions, the thickness of the resilient body, and the material properties are optimized to achieve the desired spring force and engagement characteristics. This parameter optimization enables easy manual operation while maintaining manufacturability through standard molding or machining processes.
3Volume of moving object
If space is reduced for low-profile application, then space utilization is improved, but the ability to incorporate reliable locking mechanism deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a traditional vertical engagement approach to a horizontal engagement scheme where the tab extends laterally from the resilient body and engages with the catch member's engagement surface. This dimensional reorientation allows the locking function to be achieved within the constrained vertical profile while maintaining reliable mechanical engagement through the lateral tab-catch interface.
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 system provides a secure, easy-to-use, and cost-effective locking mechanism that maximizes space utilization while ensuring reliable connection and disconnection cycles, suitable for limited-space applications like aircraft video display units.
Implementation Method 1
an angled tab that is resiliently pivotally mounted to a front portion of the latch
Data Source
AI summary
A low-profile D-subshell connector system is provided with interlocking components that can be used where space limitations are required. The system comprises a connector plug that has a connector; a backshell that houses a portion of the connector and is affixed to the connector; and a latch that is affixed to the connector and backshell. The latch comprises an angled tab that is resiliently pivotally mounted to a front portion of the latch. The tab comprises a wide region, a narrow region, and a release protrusion extending perpendicular from a top surface of the tab. A catch assembly engages the tab of the latch, the catch comprising a front portion having a notch therein. A part of the catch front portion serves to engage the wide region of the tab, thereby forcing the tab to pivot when the connector is partially inserted; and the narrow region of the tab resides in the catch notch when the connector is fully inserted.