Plug Connector Assembly Securing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug connector assemblies have high complexity and production costs due to the requirements for secure connections, making them inefficient in terms of production effort and cost.
Innovation Solution
A plug connector assembly with a simplified securing mechanism that includes a latching element, a movable securing unit, and a deflection element, which allows for a secure connection without increasing complexity, preventing unintended release and reducing production costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex securing mechanisms are used to prevent unintended release, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the latching element and securing unit into a single integrated component. The latching element has a free end that directly engages with the securing unit, eliminating the need for separate securing mechanisms. This merging reduces device complexity while maintaining connection reliability through the integrated latch-securing interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching element serves multiple functions: it provides the primary latch engagement, acts as a lever for the securing unit, and works with the deflection element to enable the transition between locked and unlocked states. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable connection.
2Stability of the object's composition
If additional securing components are added to prevent unintended release, then connection stability is improved, but manufacturing costs and production effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the securing function into the existing latching element structure. The free end of the latching element directly interacts with the securing unit, eliminating the need for additional separate securing components. This reduces manufacturing steps and assembly complexity while maintaining connection stability through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflection element automatically deflects the free end of the latching element during the locking process, causing the groove to align with the bar without requiring external intervention or complex positioning mechanisms. This self-aligning feature simplifies manufacturing and assembly while ensuring stable connection.
3Device complexity
If a simple latching mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but protection against unintended release is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable securing unit that can transition between locked and unlocked states. The securing unit moves along the latching element, engaging with the bar when locked and allowing release when unlocked. This dynamic mechanism provides reliable protection against unintended release while maintaining relatively simple device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflection element acts as an intermediary between the plug-in unit and the securing mechanism. It mediates the alignment process by deflecting the free end to bring the groove into alignment with the bar, enabling the securing unit to engage properly. This intermediary component enables reliable locking without requiring complex positioning mechanisms.
4Reliability
If multiple securing elements are implemented, then connection reliability is improved, but production time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple securing functions into a single integrated latching element and securing unit assembly. The latching element with its free end, the securing unit with movable base part, and the deflection element work together as a unified system, eliminating the need for multiple separate securing components. This reduces assembly steps and production time while maintaining reliable connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflection element automatically performs the alignment function during insertion, causing the groove to align with the bar without requiring external positioning or adjustment. This self-aligning mechanism reduces manual intervention and assembly time, improving production efficiency while ensuring reliable connection through proper alignment of the securing elements.
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 secure and stable connection for cables to components while reducing the complexity and production costs of the connector assembly, ensuring reliable data and current transmission without the need for complex securing mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
The mating plug-in unit has a deflection element which is configured to deflect the base part when the plug-in unit is moved to the connected position
Data Source
AI summary
A plug connector assembly for a cable includes a plug-in unit, a mating plug-in unit and a securing unit with a base part. A housing of the plug-in unit has a latching element having a free end with a latch that can be latched to a latching seat. In a released position of the securing unit, the base part abuts a bar of the plug-in unit so that movement into a locked position is blocked. The mating plug-in unit has a deflection element that deflects the base part and positions a groove in alignment with the bar, so that the bar is insertable into the groove, and the securing unit is movable into the locked position in which a locking element blocks a movement of the free end, and prevents the latch from leaving the latching seat.