Hinged Shell Connector Locking Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Three-phase power cord connectors are prone to loose connections, posing safety risks and theft vulnerabilities due to ease of disengagement, and existing securing mechanisms are inadequate.
Innovation Solution
A three-phase electrical connector securing apparatus featuring a hinged shell with a primary cavity, appendage, and secondary cavity for a padlock, which securely locks the connectors together, preventing disengagement and theft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional three-phase power cord connectors are used without additional securing mechanisms, then the device complexity is low, but the connection reliability is poor and the connectors easily become loose or disengaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a shell structure that encloses the electrical connector connection, creating a nested configuration where the connectors are housed within a protective outer shell. This nesting approach secures the connectors while maintaining a compact integrated design, resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates pre-configured locking mechanisms and securing features within the shell structure that automatically engage when the connector is inserted. This preliminary action ensures reliable connection securing without requiring additional complex external securing devices, thus improving connection reliability while controlling device complexity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional three-phase power cord connectors are used without securing mechanisms, then the ease of operation is high for insertion and removal, but the security against theft is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the securing function from the basic connection function by implementing a distinct shell structure with independent locking mechanisms. This segmentation allows the connector to maintain easy insertion and removal capability while adding theft protection through the separate secure locking system, resolving the contradiction between theft vulnerability and ease of operation.
3Reliability
If the primary cavity narrows at both ends to prevent connector escape, then the connection security is improved, but the ease of insertion and removal of connectors is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a hinged shell structure that can dynamically transition between open and closed states. During insertion and removal operations, the shell is opened to provide easy access, and after connection is made, the shell closes to provide secure retention. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between connector retention and ease of insertion.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for locking three-phase electrical connectors together. An apparatus for locking three-phase electrical connectors together, such apparatus including flexible inserts wherein the apparatus is configured for holding and locking three-phase electrical connectors of different sizes. A method of locking three-phase electrical connectors together using an apparatus for locking three-phase electrical connectors together.