Network Connector Lever Unlocking for Deep Socket Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network connectors in industrial automation devices require tools to be removed from deep within communication devices, making them inconvenient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A network connector design featuring a spring-loaded locking tab and an actuating element with angled deflection levers allows tool-free removal by pivoting the levers to unlock the connector from a network socket, utilizing a film hinge and preload mechanism for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the network connection socket is located deep within the communication device, then mechanical stability and robust cable support are improved, but accessibility of the locking tab for tool-free removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating element changes the dimension of operation by pivoting about an axis transverse to the plug's longitudinal axis. This allows the locking tab to be actuated from the side rather than requiring direct access from the front, enabling tool-free removal while maintaining deep socket integration for mechanical stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating element serves as an intermediary mechanism between the user's manual pressure and the locking tab. By applying pressure to the actuating element, the force is transmitted through the deflection levers to unlock the locking tab, enabling indirect access to the locking mechanism without requiring direct manipulation of the tab itself.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is provided for secure connection, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of removal without tools deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the actuating element that responds to manual pressure. The spring-mounted locking tab automatically engages with the recess in the socket to provide secure connection, and can be automatically disengaged by applying pressure to the actuating element, enabling tool-free removal while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking tab is spring-mounted, providing dynamic locking engagement. The spring force ensures reliable engagement during normal operation, while the actuating element can overcome this spring force when pressure is applied, enabling easy unlocking. This dynamic design allows the system to transition between locked and unlocked states without tools.
3Speed
If the locking tab is spring-mounted for automatic engagement, then connection speed is improved, but complexity of the locking mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the spring-mounted locking tab for automatic engagement, the actuating element with deflection levers for unlocking, and the connection elements. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function simply, with the spring tab providing automatic locking and the actuating element providing controlled unlocking, reducing overall complexity while maintaining fast connection.
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
Enables easy, tool-free disconnection of network connectors located deep within communication devices, enhancing convenience and reducing installation and maintenance time.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient locking tab which can be brought into engagement with a corresponding recess or undercut in a connection area of a network connection socket
Implementation Method 2
an actuating element acting on the locking tab, which comprises a first and a second angled deflection lever, each of which has an angle and can be pivoted there about a rotational axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the plug
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a network connector plug that can be plugged into a network socket of a communication device and comprises a connector (12) having several contacts for conductors of a network cable (2), which projects from a connector housing (11) along a longitudinal axis (10) of the connector and can be plugged into a connection area (31) of a network socket (3) provided with corresponding contacts. Furthermore, an actuating element (100) acting on a locking tab (13) is provided, comprising a first (101) and a second angled deflection lever (102), each of which has an angle and is pivotable about a pivot axis (110, 120) transverse to the longitudinal axis of the connector. The first deflection lever is hinge-connected at a first end to the locking tab and at a second end to a first end of the second deflection lever.The first end of the second deflection lever and the second end of the first deflection lever can be pivoted away from the longitudinal axis of the connector by applying pressure to the second end of the second deflection lever. This allows the first end of the first deflection lever to move towards the longitudinal axis of the connector for an unlocking action acting on the locking tab.