Lock Arm Connector Structure for Mud-Resistant Unlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
External matters such as mud can enter the space between the housing and the pressing portion of a connector, causing the pressing portion to malfunction and affecting the operability of unlocking the lock arm.
Innovation Solution
A connector design that includes a housing body, a resiliently deformable lock arm, a pressing portion at the rear end of the lock arm, and an external matter discharge portion closer to the housing body than the pressing portion, which helps to discharge external matters and ensure proper operation of the pressing portion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the connector housing is designed with a tight seal to prevent external matter entry, then sealing performance is improved, but the pressing portion becomes vulnerable to malfunction when external matter enters the space between housing and pressing portion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful external matter from the critical space between the housing and pressing portion by providing a dedicated discharge path. The external matter discharge portion creates a separate exit route that removes mud and debris before they can interfere with the pressing portion's operation, thus resolving the contradiction between sealing and operational reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new spatial dimension for matter discharge by forming the external matter discharge portion at a location different from the pressing portion. This creates a multi-dimensional approach where matter can be discharged laterally or from a different direction, preventing accumulation in the critical pressing area while maintaining overall housing integrity.
2Strength
If the space between housing and pressing portion is sealed to maintain structural integrity, then structural strength is improved, but external matter accumulation affects pressing portion functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the internal space of the housing by creating a dedicated external matter discharge path that is spatially separated from the pressing portion. This segmentation allows the main housing structure to remain intact and strong while providing a separate channel for matter discharge, preventing contamination of the critical pressing area.
Solution Approach 2:
The external matter discharge portion acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the sealed housing structure and the external environment. It provides a controlled path for matter egress that protects the pressing portion from direct exposure to external contaminants while maintaining overall structural integrity.
3Reliability
If the pressing portion is positioned closer to the housing front to improve locking engagement, then locking reliability is improved, but external matter entry into the pressing area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing the external matter discharge portion that proactively removes external matter before it can reach and affect the pressing portion. This preventive measure allows the pressing portion to be positioned optimally for locking engagement while the discharge path预先 prevents matter accumulation that would interfere with its operation.
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 connector ensures operability during the unlocking process by effectively discharging external matters from the space between the housing and the pressing portion, preventing malfunctions and maintaining the functionality of the lock arm.
Implementation Method 1
a resiliently deformable lock arm extending in a front-rear direction
Data Source
AI summary
A connector (10) includes a housing body (21) connectable to a mating housing (90) from front and a resiliently deformable lock arm (47) extending in a front-rear direction and configured to lock the mating housing (90). A pressing portion (53) for releasing locking with the mating housing (90) by being pressed toward one surface side of the housing body (21) is formed in a rear end part of the lock arm (47). An external matter discharge portion (40) is formed closer to the one surface side of the housing body than the pressing portion (53).