Multi-connector Interlock Plate for Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection-sequencing interlock mechanisms are application-specific and require custom-produced connectors, leading to increased system costs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-bay connector header with an integrated interlock plate that moves to prevent access to selected bays, using a detent lock feature to ensure a make-first/break-last sequence for power connectors and a make-last/break-first sequence for signal connectors, allowing for the use of conventional or inexpensive connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If custom-produced connectors are used for connection sequencing, then the connector insertion/removal sequence can be controlled, but system cost significantly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is segmented into two functional parts: a connector header that receives connectors and an interlock plate that controls access to connector bays. This segmentation allows the interlock mechanism to be implemented as a separate, inexpensive component rather than requiring custom connectors, thereby controlling insertion sequence while reducing system cost
Solution Approach 2:
An interlock plate is introduced as an intermediary component between the user and the connector bays. This plate physically blocks access to certain bays until specific conditions are met (other connectors are inserted), providing sequence control without requiring modification of the connectors themselves
2Reliability
If an interlock mechanism is implemented to control connector sequence, then component damage is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interlock plate is designed to be movable rather than fixed, transitioning between a base position (blocking access) and a shifted position (allowing access). This dynamic behavior enables automatic sequence control based on connector insertion status, providing protection while maintaining simplicity through motion-based logic rather than complex mechanical interlocks
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically controls access to connector bays based on the insertion status of other connectors. The interlock plate responds to connector insertion by automatically shifting positions, eliminating the need for external control systems, sensors, or complex mechanical interlocks, thereby preventing damage while maintaining simplicity
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
An interlock plate (30) slidably affixed to a multi-bay connector header (12) ensures a preordained connection sequence of multiple plug-in connectors (16, 20). The interlock plate (30) covers portions of the connector header (12), and can move with respect to the connector header (12) to prevent access to selected bays (14, 18) of the header (12). When in a base position, the interlock plate (30) allows insertion of one or more make-first/break-last connector plugs (16), but blocks insertion of one or more make-last/break-first connector plugs (20). When in a shifted position, the interlock plate (30) prevents removal of the inserted make-first/break-last connector plug(s) (16), and allows insertion of the make-last/break-first connector plug(s) (20). Insertion of the make-last/break-first connector plug(s) (20) locks the interlock plate (30) in the shifted position, so that the make-last/break-first connector plug(s) (20) must be removed prior to the make-first/break-last connector plug(s) (16).