Locking Receptacle Mechanism for Vibration-Resistant Plug Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical connectors rely solely on friction for securing the connection between plugs and receptacles, which is unreliable, especially in mechanically active environments, potentially leading to unintentional disconnections.
Innovation Solution
A clamping or retention mechanism is introduced that enhances the frictional engagement of the connection, requiring a deliberate act to release, and can be manually or automatically activated, ensuring secure connections in environments prone to vibration or mechanical strain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If friction only is used to secure the electrical connection, then the device complexity is low and manufacturing is easy, but the reliability of the connection is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism automatically engages when the plug is inserted into the receptacle without requiring manual intervention. The spring-loaded clamping elements are biased to automatically grip the prongs, providing self-securing functionality that improves reliability while maintaining simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The retention mechanism is divided into separate clamping elements that can independently engage with eachprong of the plug. This segmentation allows the system to provide secure holding force while maintaining manufacturing simplicity and ease of assembly
2Stability of the object's composition
If friction only is used to secure the electrical connection, then the ease of operation is high, but the connection stability is poor in mechanically active environments
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism uses spring-loaded clamping elements that dynamically adjust to the insertion force and maintain optimal clamping pressure. The mechanism automatically transitions from an open state during insertion to a closed locked state, providing stability while requiring minimal user effort
Solution Approach 2:
The natural insertion force that would otherwise simply push the plug into the receptacle is converted into the activating force that engages the retention mechanism. The insertion action itself triggers the locking function, improving stability without adding operational complexity
3Reliability
If a retention mechanism is added to enhance frictional engagement, then the reliability of the connection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping elements serve dual functions: they provide the retention locking action and simultaneously maintain electrical contact pressure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while improving reliability
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 mechanism provides a reliable and secure electrical connection that resists inadvertent disconnections, compatible with existing infrastructure, and can be adjusted to meet safety standards, reducing the risk of damage to cords and plugs.
Implementation Method 1
The frictional coefficient varies depending on a variety of conditions, including, but not limited to, manufacturing processes, foreign materials acting as lubricants, and wear and distortion of the assemblies.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for securing an electrical connection formed by a mating structure including prongs of a male assembly and receptacles of a female assembly are provided. In certain embodiments, the electrical connection can be secured by frictional engagement between the plug and receptacle housings. This can be accomplished by forcing a wedge into an interface between the housings or expanding a locking element, such as an elastomeric ring, into the interface. Such locking and releasing of the secure connection can be actuated using a locking nut.