PCB Connector Housing With Integrated Fixing Hook Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conventional method of bolting connectors to printed circuit boards (PCBs) in battery packs is costly and time-consuming, limiting production efficiency and increasing the size and material costs of the battery pack.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a housing with a fixing portion that passes through the PCB, coupled with a connection unit including a terminal receiving portion, coupling portion, and hook mechanism for secure mechanical attachment without additional fixing elements, simplifying the installation and enhancing coupling strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bolting is used to fix the connector to the PCB, then the connector is firmly fixed, but the production cost increases and production efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing portion is integrated directly into the housing structure, combining the housing and fixing elements into a single unified component. This eliminates the need for separate fixing elements and bolting operations, thereby reducing production steps and improving efficiency while maintaining reliable fixation through the integrated structure
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing function is extracted from the housing and implemented through a dedicated fixing portion that extends from the housing to engage with the PCB. This separation allows the fixing mechanism to be simplified and optimized independently, enabling direct engagement without complex bolting procedures
2Reliability
If bolting is used to fix the connector to the PCB, then the connector is firmly fixed, but the production time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing portion is pre-formed as an integral part of the housing structure during housing manufacturing. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for separate fixing element installation and bolting operations during assembly, significantly reducing production time while ensuring consistent fixing strength
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing portion is designed to automatically engage with the PCB through its geometric shape and positioning features, eliminating the need for manual bolting operations. The structure itself performs the fixing function through direct engagement, reducing both time and complexity
3Reliability
If bolting is used to fix the connector to the PCB, then the connector is firmly fixed, but the material cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing portion is merged with the housing structure, eliminating the need for separate fixing elements such as bolts, nuts, or clips. This integration reduces material usage and associated costs while maintaining fixing strength through the unified structural design
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing function is extracted and implemented through a simplified fixing portion that uses minimal material. By separating the fixing function from the housing and implementing it through a dedicated but simplified structure, material costs are reduced while maintaining adequate fixing strength
4Reliability
If a boss hole is formed in the connector for bolting, then the connector can be fixed to the PCB, but the housing size must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing capability is extracted from the housing body and implemented through a dedicated fixing portion that extends from the housing. This separation allows the main housing to remain compact while the fixing portion provides the necessary engagement features for PCB attachment
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of creating a boss hole that increases housing volume, the fixing portion extends from the housing surface in a different dimension. This approach provides fixing capability through surface extension rather than volumetric expansion, maintaining a compact housing design
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a connector with reduced production cost and increased production efficiency. To achieve the object, the connector according to the present disclosure includes a housing mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) and including a sidewall having an empty space that is open to one side and a fixing portion extending from an outer surface of the sidewall, the fixing portion passing through the PCB, a connection terminal having a part passing through the sidewall of the housing and the other part passing through the PCB and configured to be electrically connected to the PCB, and a connection unit including a terminal receiving portion and a coupling portion extending from an outer surface of the terminal receiving portion toward a position of the fixing portion to be mechanically coupled with a part of the fixing portion extending out of the PCB.