PCB Edge-Contact Latching for Stable Plug Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latching systems for edge-contact plugs on printed circuit boards face challenges in providing a stable and flexible fastening solution, especially when the geometry of the edge-contact plug deviates from standard dimensions, making standardization difficult and potentially leading to issues with retention and insertion force.
Innovation Solution
A latching system featuring retaining arms with latches on the printed circuit board that engage with set-back portions on the edge-contact plug, allowing for a standardized and stable connection regardless of plug length, with options for wedge-shaped, notch-shaped, or stepped designs to enhance retention and ease of detachment without additional tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional retaining systems are developed to hold the edge-contact plug on the printed circuit board, then the retention stability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the retaining function with the connection function by integrating retaining arms directly into the printed circuit board structure. The retaining arms are formed as integral parts of the board, merging two functions (connection and retention) into a single unified system, thereby improving retention stability without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining arms are designed with elastic properties, allowing them to deform during insertion and then return to their original position to provide retaining force. This dynamic behavior enables the system to adapt to different plug geometries while maintaining stable retention, resolving the contradiction between reliability and complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If the geometry of the edge-contact plug deviates from standard dimensions, then the adaptability to different applications is improved, but the standardization of the locking system becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining arms are designed with a universal geometry that can accommodate different plug lengths and configurations. The arms feature a standardized latch structure that engages with mating latches on various plug types, allowing a single retaining system design to serve multiple applications without requiring customization, thus maintaining standardization while achieving adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the elastic properties of the retaining arms as a variable parameter that can compensate for geometric deviations in different plugs. By allowing the arms to deform elastically, the system can adapt to different plug dimensions while maintaining the same standardized latching mechanism, resolving the standardization issue
3Reliability
If the retaining arms are designed to engage on the back side of the edge-contact plug, then the retention force is improved, but the insertion force requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining arms are pre-loaded with elastic energy through their spring-like design, storing force in advance. During insertion, this pre-stored elastic force automatically engages with the mating latches on the plug, providing retention force without requiring excessive insertion force from the user. The preliminary elastic deformation of the arms reduces the peak insertion force needed while ensuring reliable engagement
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 stable and flexible fastening mechanism that can accommodate edge-contact plugs of varying lengths, ensuring secure retention while allowing easy detachment and preventing unintentional damage, with a design that can be reused for different numbers of poles and is cost-effective to manufacture.
Implementation Method 1
two retaining arms (13, 14), in particular two spring-elastic retaining arms (13, 14), each having a latch (15, 16)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a latching system, including a printed circuit board and an edge-contact plug, for establishing a latching connection between the printed circuit board and the edge-contact plug, including two retaining arms, each having a latch, the edge-contact plug including two mating latches for establishing the latching connection with the latch. The mating latches being formed on two different outer sides of the edge-contact plug as a set-back portion on the outer sides in each case, and the latches being able to engage with the set-back portions on the outer sides to establish the latching connection.