Flat Cable Connector Shell Actuator With Tactile Unlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for flat connection objects, such as flexible flat cables or flexible printed circuits, face challenges in achieving a thin design due to the thickness of actuators and require additional space for actuator operation, making them unsuitable for narrow spaces. Additionally, visual indicators on these connectors can be difficult to recognize, especially in dark conditions or when the connector is installed in a way that the pressing part cannot be viewed directly from above.
Innovation Solution
A connector design that incorporates a tactile indicator portion on the actuator, allowing users to determine the pressing position for releasing the locking of the flat connection object in a tactually perceptible manner. The tactile indicator is either integrally formed with the actuator or attached separately using adhesives or solder, and features a textured or patterned surface to enhance tactile recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a visual indicator is provided on the pressing part, then the pressing position can be indicated, but the area available for the visual indicator is insufficient when the pressing part is small
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional visual indicator on the pressing surface to a three-dimensional tactile indicator that protrudes from the pressing surface. This dimensional change allows the indicator to be perceived through touch rather than requiring sufficient visual area, solving the problem of insufficient space for visual indication on small pressing parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the optical indication system (visual indicator) with a tactile indication system (protruding structure). This substitution allows users to locate the pressing position through touch sensation rather than visual perception, eliminating the need for sufficient visual area on the pressing surface.
2Length of moving object
If the connector is designed to be thin, then the connector size is reduced, but the actuator thickness prevents achieving a thinner connector
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the actuator directly into the metal shell structure, merging the actuator function with the existing connector components. This integration eliminates the need for separate actuator mechanisms that would increase thickness, allowing the connector to maintain a thin profile while preserving full actuator functionality for locking and unlocking operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The metal shell serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, electrical shielding, and houses the actuator mechanism. By making the metal shell multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for additional dedicated actuator components that would increase connector thickness, thereby achieving a thinner overall design.
3Area of stationary object
If the connector is installed in a narrow space, then the connector fits the application, but the visual indicator cannot be viewed directly from above
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical indication system with a tactile indication system. The protruding tactile indicator can be perceived through touch from any angle, eliminating the requirement for direct overhead viewing that is necessary for visual indicators. This allows the connector to be installed in narrow spaces regardless of viewing angle.
4Area of stationary object
If the pressing part area is small, then the connector is compact, but the user cannot accurately position the fingertip above the pressing part
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a vertical dimension to the pressing surface by creating a protruding tactile indicator. This three-dimensional feature provides a distinct tactile reference point that users can locate through touch, improving fingertip positioning accuracy even when the horizontal pressing area is minimal.
Solution Approach 2:
The protruding tactile indicator provides immediate tactile feedback to the user's finger, confirming accurate positioning before the pressing action is completed. This feedback mechanism allows users to precisely locate and press the correct position on small pressing parts without requiring visual confirmation.
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 connector provides a simple, reliable, and cost-effective means to lock and release flat connection objects while ensuring accurate positioning of the actuator for unlocking, even in challenging visibility conditions. The tactile indicator enhances user experience by providing a clear and reliable method to determine the correct pressing position.
Implementation Method 1
each unlocking portion includes an elastic arm and an actuator portion, the actuator portion is formed on a distant end of the elastic arm and positioned above the pressed portion, the pressed portion is pushed downward by pressing the actuator portion so that the locking portion is biased out of the locking position
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for a flat connection object is disclosed. The connector comprises: an insulating housing, a plurality of contacts held by the insulating housing, upper and lower electrically conductive shells fixed to the insulating housing. The lower electrically conductive shell comprises a pair of locking portions each of which is normally biased to a locking position and has a pressed portion. The upper electrically conductive shell comprises a pair of unlocking portions each of which includes an actuator positioned above the pressed portion. By depressing the actuator, the locking portion is displaced out of the locking position so that locking of the flat connection object is released. Each unlocking portion further comprises a tactile indicator. In absence of a visual indicator, users can rely on the tactile indicator portion to confirm whether their fingers are accurately positioned on a pressed position for releasing the locking of the flat connection object.