Linear Actuation Connector with Reverse Gear Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors require high contact forces for assembly, which can be difficult to apply manually, especially in hard-to-reach areas, and may damage contacts if not connected correctly, while lever-type connectors restrict electrical line placement and require two-handed operation.
Innovation Solution
A connector design with a linearly movable actuation element on opposing sides of the housing portion, using reverse gears to apply force parallel to the connection direction, allowing for compact construction and easy operation without obstructing electrical lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rotating lever is used to connect housing portions, then the housing portions can be connected securely, but the space for electrical lines is limited and two-handed operation is required
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a rotating lever that moves transversely across the housing, the patent employs a linearly movable actuation element that translates parallel to the connection direction. This inversion of the motion direction eliminates the need for transverse lever travel, allowing electrical lines to pass through the actuation element without obstruction and enabling operation with one hand.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reverse gear mechanism as an intermediary between the linearly movable actuation element and the mating connector. This reverse gear converts the linear motion of the actuation element into the necessary movement of the mating connector, achieving secure connection while maintaining operational convenience through linear actuation.
2Reliability
If significant force is applied to connect connector to mating connector, then secure connection is achieved, but manual application becomes difficult and contact damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reverse gear acts as a mechanical intermediary that amplifies the force applied to the actuation element. By converting linear motion into the movement of the mating connector through gear engagement, it multiplies the input force to achieve the significant contact forces needed for secure connection, while keeping the actuation element manageable for manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the dimension of force application by using a linearly movable actuation element that moves parallel to the connection direction, rather than requiring rotational or transverse motion. This dimensional change allows force to be applied in the same direction as the connection force, improving mechanical efficiency and reducing the effort needed for manual operation.
3Ease of manufacture
If lever travels transversely during rotation, then housing portions can be connected, but fingers must engage around and both hands are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional lever mechanism by replacing rotational transverse motion with linear motion parallel to the connection direction. The actuation element moves in the same direction as the desired connector movement, eliminating the need for fingers to engage around the lever and enabling operation with a single hand.
4Adaptability or versatility
If electrical line is placed in the way of the lever, then the lever rotation path is blocked, but the line would otherwise be in the way of the lever
Solution Approach 1:
By inverting the lever mechanism to use linear motion instead of rotational motion, the patent creates a straight-line actuation path that can accommodate electrical lines passing through the actuation element. This eliminates the circular path problem where lines would be in the way of lever rotation, allowing greater freedom in electrical line arrangement without interfering with the connection mechanism.
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
Facilitates secure and reliable connection of connectors with greater freedom for electrical line arrangement, reduces manual effort, and prevents damage by reinforcing the housing portion and guiding electrical lines effectively.
Implementation Method 1
the actuation element can be displaced in a linear manner and the mating connector is then moved by the reverse gear in the direction towards the connector. The actuation direction and the movement direction of the mating connector can be precisely opposed and parallel with each other. Using the reverse gear, the force which is applied to the actuation element can be reinforced.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to an arrangement (1) for a connector (9) which can be connected to a mating connector (11). In order to provide an arrangement (1) which facilitates the connection of a connector (9) to a mating connector (11), is compact and provides the greatest possible freedom in the selection of a line path to the connector (9), there is provided according to the invention an arrangement (1) having a housing portion (5), having an actuation element (3) which can be moved linearly along the housing portion (5) in an actuation direction (B), having a central chamber (4) which is surrounded at the outer side by the housing portion (5) and actuation element (3), and having at least one reverse gear (7a, 7b, 8a, 8b) whose drive (12) is connected to the actuation element (3) and whose output (14) is constructed so as to be able to be brought into engagement with portions of the mating connector (11).