Plug Connector Latching Member Segmentation Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug connector assemblies face challenges in miniaturization and increased manufacturing costs due to the large volume of latches, which require more material and complex processing.
Innovation Solution
A plug connector assembly with a latching member design that includes a forwardly extending mounting portion, an upwardly extending connecting portion, an elastic portion with a locking portion, and an operating portion that allows for disengagement from a mating connector by pressing the locking portion inwardly, reducing the need for a base portion and minimizing volume and material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional latching members with base portions are used, then the latching structure can effectively lock with mating connectors, but the volume and material consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The latching member is divided into functionally independent segments: the elastic portion provides locking force, the connecting portion transmits force, and the mounting portion secures the component. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function, eliminating the need for a large base portion while maintaining effective latching.
Solution Approach 2:
The base portion is completely removed from the latching member design. The mounting function is extracted and integrated directly into the insulative housing through dedicated mounting structures, allowing the latching member itself to be minimized to only the essential elastic and connecting portions needed for locking functionality.
2Reliability
If traditional latching members with base portions are used, then the latching structure can effectively lock with mating connectors, but the manufacturing cost increases due to more material and complex processing
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the latching member into minimal essential portions and integrating the mounting function into the housing, the total material required is reduced. This simplification directly lowers material costs and reduces processing complexity, making manufacturing more economical while preserving locking reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting function traditionally requiring a separate base portion is merged with the insulative housing structure. The housing itself provides the mounting features, eliminating the need for additional material and simplifying the manufacturing process for the latching member.
3Force
If traditional latching members are used, then adequate locking force can be provided, but the product cannot be miniaturized due to the large latch volume
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic portion is strategically positioned and dimensioned to concentrate locking force exactly where needed at the engagement point with the mating connector. The connecting portion is optimized for efficient force transmission with minimal material. This localized optimization maintains adequate locking force while minimizing overall volume to enable product miniaturization.
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 results in a smaller volume and lower manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for connecting latching members to a base, enabling more efficient production and assembly while maintaining effective latching functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic portion upwardly extending form a top end of the connecting portion, and a locking portion disposed on an extremity end, the elastic portion defining an upwardly extending pressing portion
Data Source
AI summary
A plug connector assembly includes: a mating member including an insulative housing and a pair of latching members spacedly retained in the insulative housing; a cable electrically connected to the mating member; and an outer case enclosing the mating member and the cable and having an operating portion to operate the latching member; wherein each of the latching member includes a forwardly extending mounting portion, a connecting portion upwardly extending from a rear end of the mounting portion, an elastic portion upwardly extending form a top end of the connecting portion, and a locking portion disposed on an extremity end, the elastic portion defining an upwardly extending pressing portion, the operating portion when pressed further pressing the pressing portion to move the locking portion towards an inside of the insulative housing for disengaging the latching member from a mating connector.