Identical Electrical Connector Units Single Mold Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors, particularly vertical or straight type connectors, face challenges in manufacturing efficiency due to the need for separate molds for different units, and there is a lack of symmetry in shielding structures which can complicate assembly and reliability.
Innovation Solution
The electrical connector design features a terminal module with two identical units and a shielding plate, where each unit has an insulative body with a rear base, front tongue, and intermediate step, and a row of contacts, all symmetrically arranged to allow for dual orientation mating and secure assembly using a single set of molds, with a shielding shell enclosing the module for enhanced reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate molds are used for different units in existing electrical connectors, then each unit can be customized for specific functions, but manufacturing efficiency decreases and production time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the first and second units with identical structures that can perform different functions through contact configuration rather than structural differentiation. This allows a single mold to produce both units, improving manufacturing efficiency while maintaining functional versatility through alternative contact arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies asymmetry in the reverse sense - by making the units structurally symmetric (identical) rather than asymmetric. This deliberate symmetry allows both units to be manufactured using the same mold, resolving the contradiction between customization and manufacturing efficiency.
2Reliability
If asymmetric shielding structures are used in existing electrical connectors, then specific shielding requirements can be met, but assembly complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning the shielding plate only on one side of the terminal module rather than symmetrically on both sides. This asymmetric shielding configuration meets specific shielding requirements while simplifying assembly, as fewer shielding components are needed compared to a symmetric design.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector includes: a terminal module including a first unit, a second unit, and a shielding plate between the first and second units, each of the first unit and the second unit having an insulative body and a row of contacts, the insulative body including a rear base and a front tongue; and a shielding shell enclosing the terminal module, wherein the first unit and the second unit have same structure.