Flat-Type Flexible Cable Connectors With Inverted FFC Ends
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flat-type flexible cable connectors face challenges in efficiently connecting FFCs due to the need for multiple types of terminals and cables to accommodate different connection configurations, leading to increased costs and potential defects during insertion and withdrawal.
Innovation Solution
A pair of flat-type flexible cable connectors with a first connector having a plate-like cable holder and a second connector with asymmetrical fitting parts, allowing for 1-N and 1-1 connections by inverting the end of the flat-type flexible cable, which reduces the need for multiple terminals and cables, and prevents reverse mounting, ensuring reliable insertion and withdrawal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of terminals and cables are used to accommodate different connection configurations (1-N and 1-1 connections), then connection versatility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate both 1-N and 1-1 connection configurations using the same terminal and cable types. The cable holder can be mounted in different orientations (with or without inverting the FFC end), allowing a single connector design to serve multiple connection purposes without requiring different terminal varieties.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes inversion of the FFC end as a deliberate design feature. By allowing the FFC end to be inverted during mounting, the same connector can achieve different connection configurations (1-N or 1-1) depending on the inversion state, thereby reducing the need for multiple terminal types while maintaining connection versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If reinforcing sheets are attached on both obverse and reverse sides of the FFC end to accommodate inverted connections, then connection versatility is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of modifying the cable with reinforcing sheets on both sides, the invention inverts the FFC end during connector mounting. This approach achieves the same functional result (enabling inverted connections) while avoiding the complexity of dual-sided reinforcing sheet attachment, thereby simplifying cable manufacturing.
3Reliability
If asymmetric fitting parts are provided on connectors, then reverse mounting prevention is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates asymmetric fitting parts (such as positioning protrusions or guide structures) that prevent reverse mounting by allowing insertion only in the correct orientation. This asymmetry is integrated into the basic connector structure, providing reliable reverse prevention while maintaining relatively simple overall design.
Data Source
AI summary
A pair of flat-type flexible cable connectors of the present invention comprise a first connector and a second connector. The first connector is provided with a plate-like cable holder, which has flat end faces on both sides in a thickness direction and an end protruding in the depth direction, and is structured to make an end of a flat-type flexible cable, the end having its insulating coating removed except a leading end part to expose conductors and being inverted, extend and contact both the end faces of the cable holder with the bent part of the exposed conductors serving as a boundary, and hold the leading end part and the root end part of the end. The second connector is provided with a plurality of terminals to contact the exposed conductors respectively.