Panel-Mount Connector Latch for Tool-Free Secure Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors require additional securing components like brackets, clamps, or threaded bolts for mounting, increasing assembly complexity and occupying valuable space on connector panels, which are already in short supply due to space limitations.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector design featuring a connector housing with a base, flange, and plug, incorporating a deflectable latch arm and latching finger, allowing tool-free mounting by sliding laterally into a panel opening and engaging the inner edge to secure the connector without hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mounting methods (brackets, clamps, threaded bolts) are used to secure electrical connectors to panels, then the connectors are reliably fixed in place, but the assembly complexity increases and additional space is required on the connector panel
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting function is merged with the connector housing itself. The housing includes integrated mounting features (flange with mounting holes, or snap-fit elements) that combine the structural support and securing functions into a single component, eliminating the need for separate brackets, clamps, or bolts
Solution Approach 2:
The connector housing provides its own mounting capability through self-contained features. The housing can be directly mounted to the panel using integrated flange mounts or snap-fit mechanisms, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating dependency on external mounting hardware
2Reliability
If traditional mounting hardware (brackets, clamps, bolts) is used to secure electrical connectors, then reliable fixation is achieved, but the space required on the connector panel increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting function is merged with the connector housing itself. The housing includes integrated mounting features (flange with mounting holes, or snap-fit elements) that combine the structural support and securing functions into a single component, eliminating the need for separate brackets, clamps, or bolts
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting mechanism transitions from a two-dimensional panel surface occupation to a three-dimensional engagement. The snap-fit elements or flange mounts engage the panel in a perpendicular direction, allowing secure mounting without occupying additional panel surface area
3Reliability
If additional securing components (brackets, clamps, bolts) are used for mounting electrical connectors, then the connectors are securely fixed, but the overall device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting function is merged with the connector housing itself. The housing includes integrated mounting features (flange with mounting holes, or snap-fit elements) that combine the structural support and securing functions into a single component, eliminating the need for separate brackets, clamps, or bolts
Solution Approach 2:
The connector housing serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, houses the electrical contacts, and incorporates mounting capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the total component count and simplifies the overall system
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 solution provides a compact, tool-free mounting mechanism that saves space on connector panels by eliminating the need for additional hardware, simplifying assembly, and reducing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The latch member includes a deflectable latch arm and a latching finger extending from the latch arm
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector includes a connector housing having a base, a flange, and a plug. The connector housing has a contact channel holding a contact. The electrical connector includes a latch member integral with the connector housing and located within the flange. The latch member includes a deflectable latch arm and a latching finger extending from the latch arm. The plug is configured to be inserted into a panel opening of the panel in a loading direction. The connector housing is movable laterally relative to the panel in a latching direction to a latched position. The plug is movable in the panel opening in the latching direction. The latching finger engages an inner edge of the panel opening when the housing is in the latched position to hold the connector housing in the latched position.