Plug Connector Assembly with Curved Locking Spring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing plug connector designs, such as those described in China Patent No. CN3047525725, are inconvenient to use due to the need for manual pressing of a push-type locking spring to unlock and connect with a receptacle connector.

Innovation Solution

A plug connector with a shell and a locking spring featuring a mating curved surface that allows for direct locking and unlocking with a receptacle connector, facilitating easy insertion and removal without manual operation of the locking spring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a push-type locking spring is used, then the locking mechanism can be released, but manual pressing is required which reduces ease of operation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking mechanismVSAvoidease of operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking spring is designed to automatically lock and unlock the connector based on insertion and removal forces, without requiring manual operation. The spring engages with the receptacle during insertion and disengages during removal, making the system self-servicing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring active pressing to unlock, the design inverts the mechanism so that the natural removal force automatically unlocks the connector. The locking spring passively responds to the direction of force applied during connector manipulation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Reliability

If a locking spring is mounted on the upper casing, then the locking function is achieved, but the structure becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelocking functionVSAvoidstructure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking spring is integrated with the upper casing structure, combining the locking mechanism with the existing housing. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining the locking function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The upper casing serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, houses the locking spring, and participates in the locking mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated locking components, simplifying the overall structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 design enhances user convenience by enabling passive latch operation, ensuring reliable mating and demating of the plug connector with the receptacle connector through the use of a mating curved surface, reducing the risk of PIN collapse and improving the friction force during insertion and removal.

Implementation Method 1

a locking spring mounted on the shell and including a mating curved surface for directly locking to and unlocking from a receptacle connector

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS11050188B2Plug connector assembly

Publication Date: 2021.06.29 FOXCONN (KUNSHAN) COMPUTER CONNECTOR CO LTD

AI summary

In a plug connector assembly, a plug connector for mating with a receptacle connector, includes: a shell and a locking spring mounted on the shell and including a mating curved surface for directly locking to and unlocking from a receptacle connector.