Easy-Lock Connector Push Bar for Low-Profile Single-Hand Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for flexible flat cables (FFC) face challenges in achieving low-profile designs with single-handed operation and efficient locking/unlocking mechanisms, often requiring two-handed operations or hindered by cable presence.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring an insulating housing with lock members and a push bar mechanism allowing single-handed operation, incorporating rocker arms and actuated portions for easy unlocking, and a shell for stability, enabling a low-profile and automated assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional actuator is used to release the lock on the flexible flat cable, then the locking mechanism can be released, but the actuator has a certain thickness making it difficult to achieve a low-profile connector
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate functional components: a connector housing, a flexible flat cable, and an integrated locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is segmented into locking members with locking arms that can be independently actuated, allowing the release function to be achieved without requiring a thick separate actuator component.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is merged directly into the connector housing structure. The locking members are integrated with the housing rather than being separate actuators, eliminating the need for additional thickness. The locking arms are formed as part of the housing structure, combining the housing and locking functions into a single low-profile unit.
2Reliability
If two separate locking members are used for the flexible flat cable, then the locking function is provided, but the flexible flat cable can only be released by simultaneously operating two separate locking members resulting in poor operability
Solution Approach 1:
A pushing member is introduced as an intermediary component that transfers the user's single pressing action to both locking members simultaneously. The pushing member has two pushing portions that engage with the actuating portions of the locking members, mediating the force transmission so that one operation releases both locks.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation of two separate locking members is merged into a single action through the pushing member. Although two locking members are used for reliability, their actuation is combined so that a single press on the pushing member operates both locking members simultaneously, providing both reliability and ease of operation.
3Reliability
If the operated portions of the locking members are positioned on the same side as the flexible flat cable, then the locking members can engage the cable, but the release operation may be hindered by the presence of the flexible flat cable
Solution Approach 1:
The locking members are arranged in the width direction (second direction) of the connector rather than being positioned along the length of the cable. This dimensional rearrangement allows the actuating portions to be accessible from the front face of the connector housing, perpendicular to the cable insertion direction, enabling easy access for the pushing member without interference from the cable itself.
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 design facilitates single-handed locking and unlocking, supports low-profile applications, and enables automated assembly, enhancing operability and suitability for compact electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
the locking arm is capable of moved between a latched position and an unlatched position... the locking arm being formed with a first engaging means for being engaged with a second engaging means formed on the mating connector
Implementation Method 2
the two rocker arms being capable of rotation about an axis parallel to the second direction with respect to the insulating housing
Implementation Method 3
movement of the two actuating portions in the first direction causes the locking arms of the two lock members to be moved away from the latched position in the second direction
Data Source
AI summary
An easy-lock connector which comprises an insulating housing, a plurality of contacts held by the insulating housing, two locking members and a push bar member is provided. The insulating housing has a receiving space into which a mating connector is fitted in a first direction. The locking members are arranged to lock the mating connector inserted into the easy-lock connector. The push bar member is operated to bias the locking arms of the locking members away from the latched position for unlocking the mating connector. By means of the push bar member, the operability of the easy-lock connector is improved.