Plug Connector Locking Mechanism for Vibration Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for connector housing halves fail to securely lock plug connectors against unintentional loosening due to vibration or tensile forces, necessitating an additional locking mechanism to enhance connection stability.
Innovation Solution
A locking device featuring an axially displaceable unlocking ring with a free-standing actuating tab and inwardly angled release pawl, combined with an outwardly angled pawl on the housing upper part, which engages with the unlocking ring's angled portion to provide a heavy-duty push-pull locking mechanism, incorporating a resilient metallic locking plate and latching lugs for secure plugging and unplugging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking device with resilient latches is used to lock connector housing halves, then the connection is secured against unintentional loosening, but the device becomes more complex and requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking mechanism and unlocking ring into a single integrated assembly. The unlocking ring (10) encompasses both housing parts (20, 30) and contains both the latching elements (12) and locking elements (15, 16) within its structure, eliminating the need for separate locking devices and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining dual locking functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The unlocking ring (10) serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a structural housing component, contains the latching mechanism (12), incorporates the locking mechanism (15, 16), and provides the unlocking interface through actuating tabs (14). This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed while achieving reliable connection stability
2Reliability
If an additional locking mechanism is added to the connector housing, then connection stability under vibration and tensile forces is improved, but the ease of operation for plugging and unplugging is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking elements (15, 16) are designed to engage automatically during the plugging process before the connector is fully inserted. The angled surfaces (26, 27) guide the locking elements into their locked position as the housing parts are brought together, so the locking action occurs preliminarily during insertion rather than requiring a separate step, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring connection stability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to self-lock during the plugging process without requiring additional user actions. The resilient locking elements (15, 16) automatically engage with the housing parts as they are inserted, and the unlocking ring (10) maintains the locked state passively until an external unlocking force is applied to the actuating tabs (14)
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 ensures a robust, simultaneous latching and locking mechanism that prevents unintentional disconnection, allowing for secure engagement and release of plug connections, even under stress, while also serving as a ground signal contact.
Implementation Method 1
a locking mechanism, as a resilient locking plate, is preferably made of metallic material
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Locking device has unlocking ring (10), which has three-lateral freely standing and inwardly movable actuating bracket, at which a release handle with a inwardly directed angled section is formed. At the housing upper part (20), an outward facing pawl (25) with angled section is formed. The angled section is arranged fastened to the outward facing pawl of the housing upper part in the locking condition of the plug-in connector.