OBD-II Connector Locking Mechanism for Secure Fleet Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current OBD-II connectors are either labor-intensive to install and uninstall or are prone to accidental or intentional disconnection due to their design, which is not secure against unintentional or malicious removal.
Innovation Solution
A covert locking mechanism for OBD-II connectors that can be easily installed and uninstalled by a technician but is difficult for operators to remove without permission, utilizing a connection retention component that can be moved from an unlocked to a locked position using existing features of the standard female OBD-II connector, such as sliding or rotating, to physically interfere with the port's protrusion and prevent disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard OBD-II connector is used, then the connection is easy to install and uninstall, but the connection is prone to accidental or intentional disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism includes a movable locking component that can transition between locked and unlocked states. The locking component is biased by a spring to engage with the port protrusion, and can be actuated by a button or tab to disengage. This dynamic mechanism provides secure locking during normal operation while allowing intentional release when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism proactively prevents disconnection by engaging the locking component with the port protrusion before any accidental or intentional removal attempt. The spring-loaded locking component continuously applies locking force, and only releases when deliberately actuated by the user through the button or tab mechanism.
2Reliability
If a hard-wired device is installed, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the installation is labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate components: a removable connector assembly with locking mechanism and the main device body. The connector can be independently attached to the vehicle's OBD-II port without requiring wiring installation, while the main device body remains separate. This segmentation allows quick connector attachment/detachment while maintaining secure connection during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is pre-configured with spring-loaded locking components that automatically engage with the port protrusion upon connector insertion. The button or tab actuator is pre-positioned for easy access. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for complex installation procedures while ensuring secure locking is immediately established upon connection.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to the connector, then the connection security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated into the connector housing rather than being a separate assembly. The locking components, spring elements, and actuator mechanisms are combined within the existing connector structure, utilizing the same materials and manufacturing processes. This merging approach provides enhanced security while minimizing additional complexity and maintaining compatibility with standard OBD-II port dimensions.
Data Source
AI summary
A diagnostic port connector for a vehicle that includes a locking mechanism is disclosed. The system can comprise a connector body, such as a male OBD-II connector. The connector can include a plurality of connector pins, with the pins capable of passing signals and messages from the vehicle's on board diagnostic system to a device in electrical communication with the connector. The connector can also include a connection retention component. The connection retention component can be configured to maintain a connection between male connectors and female connection ports by interfering with a protruding portion of the female connection port.