Flat Conductor Connector Layout for Mixed-Thickness Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors are inefficient and unreliable when used with both typical flat conductors and flat conductors including a plate, as they either require manual tape application to eliminate gaps or result in unstable connections due to differing thicknesses.
Innovation Solution
A connector design with separate first and second spaces in the housing to accommodate different thicknesses, featuring an elastic lock piece with a single operation portion for stable connection and efficient unlocking, and integrated reinforcement members for enhanced reliability and assembly efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single connector housing portion is designed to accommodate the thicker flat conductor including a ground plate, then the connector can be used for both typical flat conductors and flat conductors with ground plates, but a gap is created between typical flat conductors and the inner wall of the housing portion resulting in unstable connection
Solution Approach 1:
The housing portion is divided into two distinct spaces: a first space for receiving typical flat conductors and a second space for receiving flat conductors with ground plates. This segmentation allows each space to be optimized for its specific conductor type, eliminating gaps in both cases while maintaining connector versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the housing portion are given different dimensions and characteristics. The first space has dimensions suitable for typical flat conductors, while the second space has increased thickness to accommodate ground plates. This local differentiation ensures optimal fit and connection stability for each conductor type without compromising the other.
2Reliability
If separate connectors are used for typical flat conductors and flat conductors with ground plates, then connection stability for each type is ensured, but manufacturing cost increases and multiple connector types must be managed
Solution Approach 1:
The connector housing portion is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating both a first space for typical flat conductors and a second space for flat conductors with ground plates. This universal design allows a single connector type to serve multiple purposes, eliminating the need for separate connectors while maintaining connection stability for both conductor types.
3Reliability
If manual tape application is used to eliminate gaps between typical flat conductors and housing portion, then connection stability is improved, but labor consumption increases and manufacturing efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing portion is designed to self-adjust and self-fit to the flat conductor through its elastic properties. The elastic material automatically conforms to the conductor thickness, eliminating gaps without requiring manual intervention or additional components like tape. This self-service mechanism maintains connection stability while eliminating manual labor.
Data Source
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AI summary
A first space in which terminals are disposed and that is connected to a first connection and a second space in which ground terminals are disposed and that is connected to a second connection are provided in a housing portion of a flat conductor including a plate. Furthermore, in the thickness direction of the flat conductor including a plate, the second space is formed with a size that is equivalent to or greater than the thickness of a ground plate so as to enable the second connection to the housed therein.