Dual-Configurable Electrical Connector for Straight and Right-Angle Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical connectors lack versatility and efficiency in accommodating both straight and right-angle configurations, necessitating multiple types for different applications, which complicates installation and increases costs.

Innovation Solution

A dual-configurable electrical connector design featuring a first and second housing with engagement structures and a cover that can be connected in either a straight or right-angle configuration, utilizing protrusions and channels for secure latching and strain relief, allowing a single connector to adapt to various environments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple types of electrical connectors are used to accommodate different configurations (straight and right-angle), then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration adaptabilityVSAvoidconnector variety
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical connector is designed with a universal housing structure that can accommodate both straight and right-angle terminals through a single unified design. The housing includes adjustable retention members and positioning features that adapt to different terminal orientations, eliminating the need for separate connector types for different configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector incorporates movable and adjustable retention members that can be positioned at different angles and locations within the housing. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the same connector to securely hold both straight and right-angle terminals, providing configuration flexibility without requiring multiple static connector designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple types of electrical connectors are used for different applications, then adaptability is improved, but installation time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication versatilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The unified connector design with adjustable retention members allows installers to work with a single connector type across different applications, eliminating the time-consuming process of selecting and switching between multiple connector types. The standardization simplifies the installation workflow while maintaining versatility through internal adjustability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple types of electrical connectors are used, then configuration versatility is improved, but cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration versatilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The connector uses a standardized housing design with adjustable retention members that can be manufactured as a single universal component. This eliminates the need to produce and inventory multiple different connector types, reducing manufacturing complexity, tooling costs, and inventory management expenses while maintaining the ability to accommodate various terminal configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20260024940A1Electrical connector and assembly
Publication Date: 2026.01.22 LEAR CORP
  • US20260024940A1 patent drawing
  • US20260024940A1 patent drawing
  • US20260024940A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An electrical connector, comprising: a first housing configured to at least partially receive a first terminal; a second housing configured to at least partially receive a second terminal and configured for coupling with the first housing; and a cover configured for connection with the second housing in a first configuration and a second configuration.