Detachable Plug-in Connector Self-locking Member Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing detachable plug-in connectors have complex self-locking structures that are inconvenient to install.

Innovation Solution

A detachable plug-in connector with a simple structure featuring an insertion tube, a receiving part, and a self-locking member comprising two limiting arms and an elastic bending portion, which allows for easy assembly and secure locking of the insertion tube.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a traditional self-locking structure is used in the detachable plug-in connector, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidself-locking structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The self-locking member is segmented into two limiting arms connected by an elastic bending portion, allowing independent movement of each arm while maintaining overall structural simplicity. This segmentation enables the locking mechanism to achieve reliable engagement without requiring a complex integrated structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The elastic bending portion provides self-service by automatically returning the limiting arms to their locked position after insertion, eliminating the need for additional locking mechanisms or complex control systems. The structure locks itself through the elastic recovery force.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If a traditional self-locking structure is used in the detachable plug-in connector, then the locking reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connector performs self-locking automatically upon insertion through the elastic bending portion returning the limiting arms to engage with the insertion tube, eliminating the need for manual locking operations and making installation as simple as push-in.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring active action to lock the connector, the design inverts the mechanism so that locking occurs passively through elastic recovery, while unlocking requires active pressing of the pressing portion. This reversal simplifies the most common operation (insertion).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

3Ease of manufacture

If the self-locking member uses a simple structure with elastic bending portion, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the locking force may be insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveself-locking member manufacturabilityVSAvoidlocking force
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The elastic bending portion's geometry and material properties are optimized to provide sufficient locking force. By adjusting the elastic modulus, thickness, and curvature radius of the bending portion, the locking force can be tuned to meet requirements while maintaining a simple single-piece structure that is easy to manufacture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The self-locking member is made from elastic plastic material that combines rigidity for structural integrity with elasticity for locking force. This composite material approach allows a single-component design that achieves both manufacturability and adequate locking force.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

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 connector provides a straightforward installation process while ensuring secure engagement and easy disengagement of the insertion tube, with enhanced sealing and anti-falling features.

Implementation Method 1

The moving portions and the limiting arm separating portion squeeze against each other when the elastic bending portion is pressed, and thereby the two limiting arms move away from each other

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10404013B2Detachable plug-in connector
Publication Date: 2019.09.03 LINHAI YONGHENG AUTO TECH
  • US10404013B2 patent drawing
  • US10404013B2 patent drawing
  • US10404013B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present application relates to a detachable plug-in connector, which includes an insertion tube having a lock engaging portion, a receiving part for accommodating the insertion tube, and a self-locking member for limiting the movement of the insertion tube. The self-locking member is accommodated in the receiving part. The self-locking member comprises two limiting arms each defining a limiting protrusion, an elastic bending portion connected between the two limiting arms, and two moving portions. The receiving part comprises a limiting arm separating portion configured for cooperating with the moving portions. The moving portions are fixed at inner sides facing towards each other of the two limiting arms. The surfaces of the moving portions adjacent to the limiting arm separating portion are inclined surfaces that facilitate the two limiting arms move away from each other when the moving portions and the limiting arm separating portion squeeze against each other.