Power Controller Housing Connector Retention Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power control systems face issues with premature failure of connectors due to repeated connections and disconnections, leading to costly downtime and process yield losses, as they require customized mounting and wiring with numerous connections, which are prone to connector retention clip failure.
Innovation Solution
A power controller housing with a coupler and biasing mechanism that secures the connector in place, reducing the need for frequent connections and disconnections by providing a biasing force to maintain the connector's engaged position, thus minimizing wear and tear on the connector retention mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If connectors are subjected to repeated connections and disconnections, then the system can be reconfigured and maintained, but the connector retention clips are subject to premature failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the retention function from the connector itself and places it in the housing. The housing includes a retention structure that holds the connector in place, separating the retention mechanism from the connector components that undergo wear during connection/disconnection cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention structure is pre-configured in the housing to automatically engage and secure the connector upon insertion. This preliminary retention action prevents the connector from becoming loose or disconnected during operation, addressing the reliability issue before it can manifest.
2Adaptability or versatility
If customized mounting and wiring with numerous connections are used, then the power control system can be adapted to specific applications, but the opportunity for connector failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing with integrated retention structure provides a universal solution that can accommodate different connector types and configurations. The standardized housing design maintains adaptability for customized applications while incorporating a reliable retention mechanism that reduces connection failures across all configurations.
3Strength
If connector retention clips are used, then the connector can be secured to the coupler, but the retention clips are subject to premature failure leading to costly downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the retention structure as an integral, non-replaceable part of the housing rather than a separate consumable component. This eliminates the need for replacement retention clips and reduces downtime, as the housing itself provides permanent retention throughout its service life.
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 solution effectively reduces the likelihood of connector failure, minimizing downtime and process yield losses by securely holding the connector in place, thereby extending its lifespan and maintaining system reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The housing has a biasing portion located proximate to the coupler opening for providing a biasing force to an engaging portion of a connector when the connector is coupled with the coupler
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a housing assembly including a case defining an opening, and a coupler positioned within the opening and configured for coupling to a connector, wherein the case defines a securing portion positioned proximate to the opening and is configured for securing a portion of the connector when coupled with the coupler.