Multi-Pole Plug Connector CPA Locking for Cable Bundle Fastening
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Solution Overview
Problem
As the number of poles in multipole plug connector assemblies increases, it becomes challenging to manage and securely fasten connecting lines in an orderly manner, often requiring complex and expensive housing designs or additional fastening elements.
Innovation Solution
A connector position assurance (CPA) locking mechanism that secures the plug connector housings together while also serving as a cable holder, using a spring clamp design to clamp multiple adjacent connecting lines routed in parallel, thereby securing both the housing connection and the cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of poles in multipole plug connector assemblies increases, then the electrical connectivity capability is improved, but the difficulty of managing and fastening connecting lines increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the CPA locking mechanism and cable holder into a single integrated component. The CPA bar serves dual functions: securing the connector housings together through the detent connection and simultaneously fastening the connecting lines through its integrated cable holder function. This merging eliminates the need for separate cable fastening elements, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high pole count capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The CPA locking mechanism is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a structural connector for the housings and as a cable management system. The same component that provides mechanical locking also provides cable fastening through the integrated cable holder, allowing a single element to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate components.
2Reliability
If special fastening sites are provided at the plug connector housings, then the securing of cable bundles is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adding separate fastening sites to the housing structures, the patent merges the cable fastening function into the existing CPA locking mechanism. This eliminates the need for modifications to the housing designs while still providing reliable cable securing through the integrated cable holder on the CPA bar.
Solution Approach 2:
The CPA locking mechanism serves itself by incorporating the cable holder function directly into its structure. The same component that performs the locking function also performs the cable fastening function, eliminating the need for additional dedicated fastening structures on the housings themselves.
3Reliability
If a multipart housing design is used to enclose connecting lines, then the fastening security is improved, but the housing complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cable holder function into the CPA locking mechanism rather than requiring multipart housing designs. The integrated cable holder on the CPA bar provides the necessary cable enclosure and fastening security without requiring the housing to be divided into multiple parts or sections.
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
This solution allows for the efficient and secure fastening of multiple connecting lines with reduced material and installation effort, providing a cost-effective and simple method to manage cable bundles within the plug connector assembly.
Implementation Method 1
The portion of the CPA locking mechanism that forms the cable holder may particularly advantageously be designed as a spring clamp (or spring clip) made up of two oppositely situated spring arms
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly includes a first connector housing, a second connector housing, and a connector position assurance (CPA) locking mechanism. The connector housings are connected via a detent connection. The CPA locking mechanism secures the detent connection against unintentional disconnection. The CPA locking mechanism forms a cable holder for fastening adjacent connecting lines.