Lever-Type Connector Lock Protection Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lever-type connectors have a low lock holding force due to the exposure of the lock retaining portion, making it prone to damage and deformation from external forces, which easily cancels the locked condition.
Innovation Solution
A lever-type connector design featuring a retaining portion with a lever claw and a lock arm, where the lock protection portion is positioned away from the rotation center to cover the lock portion, providing elasticity to engage and lock securely, preventing damage and deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lock retaining portion is exposed to the exterior for easy access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to vulnerability to external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The lock protection portion is positioned away from the rotation center to cover the lock portion, creating a nested structure where the protective element envelops the vulnerable locking mechanism. This nesting arrangement shields the lock retaining portion from external forces while preserving its functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock protection portion acts as an intermediary element between the external environment and the lock retaining portion. It mediates the interaction by absorbing or deflecting external forces before they can reach the vulnerable lock mechanism, thus protecting it without preventing normal operation.
2Device complexity
If the lock retaining portion is exposed for simple structure, then the device complexity is reduced, but the strength deteriorates due to susceptibility to damage and deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The lock protection portion is positioned away from the rotation center to cover the lock portion, creating a nested structure where the protective element envelops the vulnerable locking mechanism. This nesting arrangement shields the lock retaining portion from external forces while preserving its functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional elements: the lock retaining portion for engagement, the lock protection portion for shielding, and the lever claw for actuation. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated system.
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 design enhances the lock holding force by protecting the lock portion from external forces and ensuring the locked condition remains intact, with a distinct lock sound confirming successful engagement.
Implementation Method 1
at least one of the retaining portion and the lock arm has elasticity
Data Source
AI summary
A lever-type connector includes a connector housing, a cover attached to the connector housing, a lever rotatably mounted on the connector housing. The lever is rotated in a situation that a mating connector is fitted to the connector housing in a half-fitted condition, thereby moving the mating connector with respect to the connector housing from the half-fitting condition to a completely fitting condition. A retaining portion is provided on the lever. A lock portion provided on the cover is engaged with the retaining portion when the lever has been rotated. A lever claw portion is provided on the retaining portion. The lock portion is provided on a distal end portion of the lock arm. A lock protection portion is provided on the retaining portion so as to be positioned away from a rotation center of the lever than the lever claw portion so that the lock protection portion covers the lock portion.