Low Profile Connector Assembly with Vertical Locking and Overlapping Tongue
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies are lengthened due to non-overlapping locking structures and wide insulating bodies, which hinder size reduction.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a first connector with a receiving space between the top wall and locking plate for the second connector, and a second connector with an extending portion overlapping the tongue plate vertically, allowing for a shorter length by optimizing the use of height without increasing the front-rear length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the locking structure and tongue plate are designed to be non-overlapping in the vertical direction, then the locking function is realized, but the connector length increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the locking structure from a horizontal arrangement to a vertical arrangement, allowing it to overlap with the tongue plate in the vertical direction. This dimensional change enables the locking function to be achieved without increasing the connector length in the mating direction, as the locking structure now utilizes the vertical space above the tongue plate rather than extending horizontally.
2Ease of operation
If the first insulating body is designed to be relatively wide, then positioning grooves can be provided to clamp the metal shell, but the connector size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the insulating body to have different widths at different locations: the main body remains narrow to minimize overall size, while localized positioning grooves are created by recessing portions of the insulating body. These localized wide portions provide the necessary clamping function for the metal shell without increasing the overall connector dimensions.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the receiving space width is narrower than the slot width, then the second connector is securely positioned, but the height utilization must be optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a receiving space with a width smaller than the slot width by utilizing the vertical space above the tongue plate. The locking structure is positioned vertically above the tongue plate, and the receiving space is formed between the locking structure and the insulating body top surface. This vertical arrangement allows the receiving space to have sufficient height to accommodate the second connector securely while maintaining a narrow width for stable positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a connector assembly including a first connector and a second connector. The first connector including a first insulating body, a first terminal module and a first shell. The first insulating body includes a first top wall shielded by an upper wall of the first shell. The upper shell includes a locking plate. The first connector includes a receiving space between the first top wall and the locking plate for positioning the second connector. A width of the receiving space is narrower than a width of the slot. The second connector includes a second insulating body and a second terminal module. The second insulating body includes a main body, a tongue plate and an extending portion. The extending portion is located above the tongue plate. The extending portion and the tongue plate at least partially overlap along a vertical direction.