Modular Latching Tab for Robust Plug Connector Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug connectors with latching mechanisms are insufficient for applications requiring robust securing or locking of electrical connections, often necessitating complex modifications and changes to manufacturing tools.
Innovation Solution
A modular latching tab with resilient latching clips and actuating portions that can transition between latching and release positions, allowing for secure and easy assembly with various configurations, enabling robust locking and unlocking of electrical plug connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If standard latching devices are used for plug connectors, then the design is simple and manufacturing is straightforward, but the securing or locking strength is insufficient for special cases requiring robust connections
Solution Approach 1:
The latching tab is divided into functionally independent segments: a resilient latching clip portion for forming detachable latching connections, a plug portion for forming plug connections with retaining portions, and an actuating portion for actuating the latching clip. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching tab is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides latching functionality (through the resilient latching clip), plug connection functionality (through the plug portion), and actuation functionality (through the actuating portion). This universal design eliminates the need for separate latching mechanisms and reduces overall device complexity.
2Reliability
If complex modified designs or extensions are made to existing latching devices to achieve robust securing, then the locking strength improves, but manufacturing tool changes are required and production becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the latching clip, plug portion, and actuating portion into a single integrated latching tab component. This consolidation achieves robust and reliable plug connections without requiring complex modified designs or multiple separate components, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture and avoiding the need for manufacturing tool changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient latching clip is designed with specific material properties and geometric parameters that enable it to provide robust securing forces. By optimizing parameters such as clip thickness, length, and resilience characteristics, the invention achieves high reliability without requiring complex designs or special manufacturing processes.
3Strength
If a resilient latching clip extending in the plug-in direction is used, then the latching connection is robust, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The latching tab is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides latching functionality (through the resilient latching clip), plug connection functionality (through the plug portion), and actuation functionality (through the actuating portion). This universal design eliminates the need for separate latching mechanisms and reduces overall device complexity.
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 modular latching tab provides a simple and efficient solution for securing and releasing electrical connections, accommodating different applications without the need for extensive tool modifications, ensuring reliable and versatile plug connector designs.
Implementation Method 1
at least one latching clip resiliently configured to form a detachable latching connection with a latching portion of the mating plug connector
Data Source
AI summary
A latching tab for locking an electrical plug connection between a plug connector and a mating plug connector in a plug-in direction includes: at least one latching clip for resiliently forming a detachable latching connection with a latching portion of the mating plug connector and extending at least partly in a first direction; at least one plug portion for forming a plug connection with a retaining portion of the plug connector, the at least one plug portion extending at least partly in a second direction; and at least one actuating portion for actuating the at least one latching clip. The latching tab transfers the at least one latching clip from a latching position into a release position by actuation of the actuating portion in at least one direction from the first direction and the second direction.