Flat Flexible Cable Connector With Multi-Row Locking Termination
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of flat flexible cables (FFCs) into existing wiring environments, particularly in automotive applications, is hindered by the need for quick, robust, and low resistance termination techniques to enable connectorization with existing components.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a housing with a locking device and terminals that allows for easy insertion and secure termination of FFCs, utilizing a locking mechanism with protrusions and latches to maintain electrical connections and resist forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking device with protrusions and latches is used to secure FFC connections, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is segmented into multiple protrusions that can be independently positioned along the FFC length, with each protrusion providing localized securing action. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high reliability through distributed locking points while managing complexity by repeating a simple modular element rather than designing a single complex locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusions are nested within the housing structure, with each protrusion containing a latch mechanism that engages with corresponding features on the FFC. This nesting approach consolidates multiple locking functions into a compact integrated structure, improving reliability through multi-point engagement while containing the overall device complexity within the housing boundaries.
2Reliability
If multiple terminal receiving passageways are provided in rows for secure termination, then connection robustness is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure is designed with universal terminal receiving passageways that can accommodate multiple FFC configurations and terminal types through standardized row arrangements. This universality allows the same basic housing design to serve multiple connection scenarios, improving connection robustness through consistent multi-point termination while simplifying manufacturing by avoiding custom designs for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The divider structure provides local quality differentiation within the housing, creating distinct terminal receiving zones with specific geometries optimized for particular terminal types while maintaining overall manufacturing simplicity through modular construction. Each local region is optimized for its specific function, yet all regions are manufactured using the same basic processes.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a locking mechanism is used to resist forces and maintain electrical connections, then connection stability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and secure the FFC in place through spring-loaded protrusions that snap into position upon insertion. This self-service approach maintains connection stability through automatic multi-point locking while preserving ease of operation, as the user simply needs to insert the FFC without manual intervention for each locking point.
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusions are pre-positioned within the housing in ready-to-engage configurations, with latches pre-loaded to spring into action upon FFC insertion. This preliminary preparation ensures connection stability is achieved automatically upon mating, while ease of operation is maintained since no additional manual locking actions are required from the user.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a housing and a locking device disposed in the housing. The housing has a body defining a body receiving space, a divider positioned in the body receiving space and defining a plurality of terminal receiving passageways with the body in a plurality of rows, and a latch extending from the body. The locking device has a base and a plurality of protrusions extending from the base. Each of the protrusions is received in one of the rows in an open position of the locking device and is inserted further into the terminal receiving passageways in a closed position of the locking device. The latch engages the locking device to secure the locking device in each of the open position and the closed position.