Plug Connector Locking Arm Structure With Return Spring Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies face challenges in providing sufficient space for the movement of locking arms and ensuring their return to the original position when external force is removed.
Innovation Solution
The proposed connector assembly includes a plug connector with a housing design that features a first base with an avoidance space, allowing the locking arm to rotate and tilt upwardly. Two return springs are integrated to return the locking arms to their original position after the external force is removed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the locking arm is designed to move between locking and unlocking positions, then the connector can achieve reliable connection and disconnection, but insufficient space is provided for the locking arm movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new spatial dimension by adding an avoidance space at the bottom of the first base, perpendicular to the traditional locking arm movement plane. This allows the abutting portion to tilt upwardly in a vertical direction while the locking latch moves horizontally, effectively resolving the space constraint without compromising connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking arm is divided into distinct functional segments: the locking latch portion that engages with the receptacle, the pivot portion that enables rotation, and the abutting portion that tilts upwardly in the avoidance space. This segmentation allows each part to move independently in its optimal direction, maximizing space utilization
2Device complexity
If the locking arm structure is simplified to reduce space requirements, then the device complexity is reduced, but the locking arm cannot return to its original position when external force is removed
Solution Approach 1:
The return spring is configured to automatically return the locking arm to its original locked position when external force is removed, without requiring additional actuation mechanisms. The spring engages with the abutting portion and uses the upward tilting motion in the avoidance space to compress the spring, which then propels the locking arm back to its locked state
Solution Approach 2:
The return spring acts as an intermediary element between the locking arm and the housing, providing the necessary restoring force. The spring is positioned within the avoidance space, utilizing the vertical tilting motion to store and release elastic energy, thereby enabling reliable return without complicating the overall structure
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 enhances the insertion reliability of the plug connector by providing sufficient space for the locking arm movement and ensuring reliable return, thus improving the overall performance of the connector assembly.
Implementation Method 1
two return springs, each return spring abutting against one locking arm; the two return springs being configured to return the two locking arms after the external force is removed
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly includes a receptacle connector assembly and a plug connector. The plug connector includes a housing, a tongue plate and two locking arms. The housing includes a first housing defining an avoidance space. The two locking arms are installed in the housing. Each locking arm includes a locking latch, an abutting portion and a pivot portion. The locking arm is rotatable around the pivot portion under an action of an external force, thereby causing the locking latch to move toward an interior of the housing along a thickness direction of the plug connector. The avoidance space is configured for the abutting portion to tilt. Each return spring is configured to return the locking arm after the external force is removed.