Fool-proof Electric Connector Asymmetric Latching Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric connectors often suffer from improper connections, leading to damage and incorrect electrical connections between male and female connectors, as they can be plugged in reverse or secured incorrectly.
Innovation Solution
A fool-proof electric connector design featuring a socket with a positioning notch and a plug with a protruded fool-proof block and positioning hook arm, ensuring correct alignment and latching to prevent improper connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional electric connectors are used without fool-proof structures, then the connection operation is simple, but the connectors can be plugged in reverse causing damage and incorrect electrical connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing the fool-proof block with a specific shape that only fits into the corresponding positioning notch when the connector is oriented correctly. The asymmetric geometry of the fool-proof block and positioning notch prevents reverse insertion, ensuring that the connector can only be plugged in the correct orientation to achieve proper electrical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The fool-proof block acts as an intermediary element between the plug and socket. This intermediate structure mediates the connection process by physically guiding the plug into the correct position and preventing incorrect insertion, thereby ensuring reliable connection without requiring complex control systems.
2Reliability
If fool-proof blocks and positioning structures are added to prevent reverse plugging, then connection reliability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into distinct functional components: the fool-proof block as a separate protruding element, the positioning notch as a dedicated receptacle, and the latching mechanism with positioning hook arms. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently using standard molding techniques, simplifying the overall manufacturing process despite the increased functional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fool-proof structures are implemented as localized features on specific surfaces of the connector housing rather than requiring complex modifications throughout the entire component. The positioning notch and fool-proof block are concentrated in specific areas, allowing the majority of the connector structure to remain simple and easy to manufacture.
3Ease of operation
If positioning notches and holes are formed on the connectors, then proper alignment and secure connection are achieved, but the structural complexity and potential damage points increase
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning notch and fool-proof block are pre-formed during the molding process, creating the alignment features before assembly. This preliminary action ensures that when the connectors are brought together, the alignment is automatically achieved without requiring additional adjustment steps or complex positioning mechanisms during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning function and connection function are merged into a single integrated structure. The positioning notch serves dual purposes: it guides the fool-proof block for accurate alignment and simultaneously engages with the positioning hook arm to secure the connection. This merging eliminates the need for separate positioning and latching mechanisms, reducing overall structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric connector includes a socket and a plug. The socket includes a first insulating block and a first terminal and the first insulating block has a positioning notch and a positioning hole. The plug includes a second insulating block and a second terminal, and the second insulating block has a plug end and a fool-proof block protruded from the plug end and extended towards the socket. The second insulating block includes a positioning hook arm formed on the other opposite side. When the second insulating block is plugged into the first insulating block, the fool-proof block is stopped at the positioning notch, and the positioning hook arm is latched into the positioning hole, such that the first terminals are electrically coupled to the second terminals, so as to assure a proper connection of the electric connectors and prevent damages caused by improper connection of the electric connectors.