Quick-Attachment Connector With Elastic Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cable connectors require complex handling and tool usage for assembly and disassembly, which can be time-consuming and prone to incorrect locking, especially for operators unfamiliar with the securing mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A socket fixing device acting as a keying device, comprising a first sleeve, a second sleeve, and an elastic element that axially locks and radially retracts to facilitate quick and intuitive assembly and disassembly without tools, using an actuator that moves between locking and unlocking positions for easy handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixing screw with keying elements is used to secure connector parts, then the connection reliability is improved, but the assembly time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional screw-based mechanical fastening system with an elastic locking mechanism. The elastic element deforms during assembly to allow engagement, then locks the connector parts together without requiring screws or threaded fasteners. This substitution eliminates the time-consuming screwing operation while maintaining secure connection reliability through the elastic element's locking action.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element performs multiple functions automatically: it guides the alignment of keying elements during insertion, secures the connection through its locking action, and enables easy disassembly when force is applied. The mechanism serves itself by using the insertion motion to both align and lock the components, eliminating the need for separate fastening operations.
2Productivity
If a quarter-turn screw is used for securing, then the assembly speed is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the need for precise gesture and tool handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the quarter-turn screw mechanism with a direct elastic locking system. Instead of requiring operators to manipulate a screw with specific rotational gestures, the elastic element locks automatically when the connector parts are brought together. This eliminates the need for tool handling and precise rotational gestures, making the operation intuitive and easy for all operators regardless of experience level.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple keying elements and fixing screws are used, then the manufacturing precision of connection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the keying function and the fastening function into a single integrated elastic locking mechanism. The elastic element incorporates both the alignment guidance features and the locking action, eliminating the need for separate keying elements and fixing screws. This merging reduces the number of components while maintaining the precision required for correct connector alignment and secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a guide for alignment, provides the locking mechanism for secure connection, and enables easy disassembly. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate components, reducing device complexity while maintaining manufacturing precision through the integrated design.
4Strength
If conventional securing means are used, then the axial locking strength is improved, but the ease of disassembly deteriorates due to tool requirements and complex gestures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces screw-based fastening systems with an elastic locking mechanism that provides strong axial locking through the elastic element's deformation and recovery. For disassembly, the system substitutes complex screw operations with a simple push action on the actuator, which releases the elastic element's locking force. This maintains strong connection during use while enabling easy tool-free disassembly.
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
Enables rapid and foolproof assembly and disassembly of cable connectors, reducing the risk of incorrect locking and simplifying the process for operators, while ensuring secure axial locking and easy disengagement without the need for tools.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element capable of axially locking the two sockets with respect to each other when inserting the second socket into the first socket and retracting radially when inserting the second socket into the first socket
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides a removable fastening device (1) comprising a first socket (3) and a second socket (2) for insertion into the first socket (3), and an elastic element (12) capable of axially locking the two sockets relative to each other and retracting radially when the second socket (2) is inserted into the first socket (3). One of the sockets (3) includes an actuator (19) that is axially movable relative to the socket (3) between a first position of axial locking of the two sockets (2, 3) by the elastic element (12), and a second position of unlocking the sockets by radial retraction of the elastic element (12).