Plug-In Connector Latching Structure for Simpler Molding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-in connectors, such as RJ-45 connectors, require increased tooling and setup effort in the injection-molding process, particularly when angled cable outlets are involved, due to the integral formation of the latching device with the cable receiving body.
Innovation Solution
The latching device is designed with separate first and second latching arms that latch onto the cable receiving body, allowing independent production of the cable receiving body and latching device, reducing the need for complex molds and enabling varied cable outlet directions without additional effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the latching device is integrally formed with the cable receiving body through injection-molding, then the connection between latching device and cable receiving body is secure, but the tooling and setup effort in the injection-molding process increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The latching device is separated from the cable receiving body into two independent components. The latching device can be produced separately and then attached to the cable receiving body, eliminating the need for complex integral injection-molding while maintaining secure connection through dedicated attachment features.
2Force
If the latching device is designed with complex arcuate form to achieve spring effect, then the spring action is sufficient, but the injection-molding tooling and setup effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring effect is achieved through a separate latching device component rather than through the overall arcuate form of an integrally molded assembly. This segmentation allows the spring action to be implemented through simpler, more manufacturable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring effect is achieved by changing the material properties or cross-sectional geometry of the latching device arms rather than requiring complex arcuate shaping, making the injection-molding process simpler while maintaining sufficient spring action.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the latching device is integrally formed with the cable receiving body, then the structural integrity is high, but the adaptability to different cable outlet directions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the latching device from the cable receiving body, the design allows the cable receiving body to be optimized for different cable outlet directions while the latching device can be standardized. This segmentation enables greater adaptability to various cable outlet configurations without compromising the structural integrity of either component.
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 design simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces tooling complexity, and allows for diverse cable outlet configurations while maintaining a secure and stable connection through form-fitting undercuts, ensuring easy operation and secure latching.
Implementation Method 1
a latching device, which is spring-elastic at least in regions, via which the plug-in connector can be latched to the mating plug-in connector
Data Source
AI summary
A plug-in connector for connecting to a mating plug-in connector includes: a contact receiving body, in which at least one contact element for connecting to a mating contact element of the mating plug-in connector is received; a cable receiving body connected to the contact receiving body, in which a cable for connecting to the at least one contact element of the contact receiving body is receivable; and a latching device, which is spring-elastic at least in regions, via which the plug-in connector is latchable to the mating plug-in connector. The latching device has a first end via which the latching device is connected to a plug-in face of the contact receiving body. The latching device has a second end opposite the first end. A first latching arm and a second latching arm are formed on the second end. The first and second latching arms in a latching position are latched.