Multi-Latch Terminal Position Assurance for Connector Housing Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing terminal position assurance members require different configurations for each differently configured housing, leading to increased manufacturing and inventory costs due to the need for multiple part numbers and molds.
Innovation Solution
A terminal position assurance member with multiple latches that can be used with different connector housings, featuring terminal engaging projections and latch arms that secure to various mounting portions of the housing, providing visual indication of proper terminal seating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different configurations of terminal position assurance members are used for each differently configured housing, then proper terminal retention is achieved, but manufacturing and inventory costs increase due to multiple part numbers and molds
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal position assurance member is designed with multiple latch arms (first latch arms and second latch arms) that can engage with different mounting portions on various housing configurations. This universal design allows a single terminal position assurance member to function with multiple differently configured housings, eliminating the need for multiple specialized parts and reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining reliable terminal retention across all applications
2Ease of manufacture
If a single terminal position assurance member design is used for all housings, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but proper engagement with all housing configurations cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal position assurance member is segmented into multiple independent latch arms (first latch arms and second latch arms) that can be positioned at different locations. Each latch arm can engage with different mounting portions on various housing configurations, allowing the single unified component to adapt to multiple housing types while maintaining cost-effective manufacturing
3Reliability
If retention features are added to prevent terminal movement, then terminal security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal position assurance member combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: it provides terminal retention through latch engagement, ensures proper terminal positioning within cavities, and prevents unintentional disconnection. By merging these functions into one component rather than using separate retention features, the solution improves terminal security while actually reducing overall device complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
A terminal position assurance member (12) for use with an electrical connector (10, 110). The terminal position assurance member (12) includes a terminal engagement section (40) with terminal engaging projections (46). At least one first latch arm (50a, 50b) extends from the terminal engagement section (40). At least one second latch arm (50a, 50b) extends from the terminal engagement section (40) and is spaced from the at least one first latch arm (50a, 50b). The at least one first latch arm (50a, 50b) engages a portion (34) of the first electrical connector (10) to secure the terminal position assurance member (12) to the first electrical connector (10), or the at least one second latch arm (60a, 60b) engages a portion (134) of a second electrical connector (110) to secure the terminal position assurance member (12) to the second electrical connector (110).