Locking Clip With Latching Hook Prevents Accidental Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking clips for electrical connector housings can inadvertently release due to user movement, making it easier to open than close the plug connection, and lack secure locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A locking clip with a locking device that blocks pivoting movement, a C-shaped spring element, and a latching hook, integrated into the actuating grip, ensuring secure locking and easy operation, with a spring force that secures the clip in the locked position and requires deliberate action for release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the locking clip is designed to be easily opened for user convenience, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of the locking function deteriorates due to inadvertent release
Solution Approach 1:
The locking clip incorporates a latching hook that automatically engages with a recess in the housing before the user completes the opening motion. This preliminary latching action prevents inadvertent release while still allowing deliberate opening when the user applies sufficient force to disengage the latch
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element pre-loads the locking clip in the closed position, creating a counter-force that must be overcome to open the clip. This preliminary anti-action ensures the clip remains securely locked during normal use but can be opened when intentional force is applied
2Reliability
If the locking clip uses spring-loaded compression for secure locking, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to upward compression difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is inverted so that the spring element acts to close and lock the clip automatically when engaged, rather than requiring the user to manually compress it closed. The user's action of pulling the actuating grip open triggers the spring to snap the clip into the locked position, reversing the traditional spring-loaded closing mechanism
3Reliability
If the locking clip is positioned in the upper region of the mating connector housing, then the locking function is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to susceptibility to inadvertent activation from user movement
Solution Approach 1:
The latching hook engages with the recess in the housing before the locking clip reaches its final upper position. This preliminary engagement creates a mechanical interlock that prevents the clip from being accidentally actuated by leaning or movement, while still allowing the locking function to operate effectively when properly engaged
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 locking clip provides secure and ergonomic operation, preventing unintentional opening and ensuring a high number of reliable plug-in cycles with a simple, one-handed operation.
Implementation Method 1
By way of the locking clip, the electrical connector housings are compressed against each other by a spring action
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector housing is provided with at least one locking clip, which is mounted pivotably via a bearing pin and has a locking region and an actuation region. In order to reversibly lock the electrical connector housing to a mating electrical connector housing, the locking region engages overbearing journals integrally moulded on the mating electrical connector housing. The locking clip has a locking device or means for blocking the pivot movement of the locking clip. In this manner, an accidental release of the plug-in connection can be prevented.