Locking Lever Connector Assembly for Protected 3-Axis Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies face issues with the locking mechanism, where the engagement protrusion is not properly disengaged due to structural errors, leading to increased likelihood of damage and failure under external impacts, as the disengagement direction does not align with the engagement direction, and there is no separate structure to protect the engagement structure.
Innovation Solution
The connector assembly incorporates a locking lever with a locking lever arm that engages with the first connector through a 3-axis direction, allowing the first guide protrusion to disengage the locking lever from the first connector, preventing external forces from canceling the engagement force and reducing the risk of damage by rotating in both opening and closing directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the locking lever arm engages with the first connector through a 3-axis direction, then the engagement force is protected from cancellation by external forces, but the device complexity increases due to the additional protective structure
Solution Approach 1:
The locking lever arm engages with the first connector through a 3-axis direction rather than a single-axis engagement. This multi-dimensional engagement approach prevents external forces from easily canceling the engagement force, as forces would need to act in multiple directions simultaneously to disengage the connection. The guide protrusion also moves through a complex path involving multiple axes during the engagement and disengagement process.
2Ease of operation
If the locking lever is designed to rotate in both opening and closing directions, then ease of operation is improved, but the risk of damage under external impacts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking lever is designed to rotate in both opening and closing directions, making it a dynamic component rather than a fixed one. This allows the lever to adapt to operational needs by moving freely in both directions during normal use, improving ease of operation. The guide protrusion works with the locking lever to enable controlled rotation while maintaining engagement.
3Ease of operation
If the first guide protrusion disengages the locking lever from the first connector, then the locking mechanism can be released, but the engagement force may be canceled by external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The guide protrusion acts as an intermediary element between the locking lever and the first connector. During disengagement, the guide protrusion interacts with the locking lever to facilitate controlled movement and release. This intermediary mechanism ensures that disengagement occurs in a controlled manner while the 3-axis engagement structure maintains resistance to external forces that might otherwise cancel the engagement force.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly comprises a first connector, a locking lever rotatably attached to the first connector, and a second connector engageable with the first connector. The second connector defines a first guide protrusion extending from a surface thereof. In a closed position, the locking lever engages with the second connector and prevents the second connector from disengaging from the first connector. The first guide protrusion disconnects the locking lever from the first connector and biases the locking lever in an opening direction toward an open position.