Post-Based Connection Assembly with Angular Returning Means
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection assemblies face challenges in achieving reliable and rapid connection/disconnection in a small volume, as existing fastening methods like screws or hooks are cumbersome and difficult to operate in confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
A connection assembly design featuring a post that penetrates into a fastening passage and is secured by an abutment device, allowing alignment and secure fastening, with angular returning means like springs to facilitate easy disassembly by external torque or axial thrust, enabling quick transition between fastening and free positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screws are used to fasten connectors, then reliable and proven fastening is achieved, but connection and disconnection operations become long and difficult in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening mechanism is segmented into modular components: a post element, a fastening passage with abutment device, and angular returning means. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling rapid connection by simply inserting the post and automatic engagement of the abutment device, while maintaining reliable fastening through the dedicated locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism incorporates dynamic elements including the angular returning means (spring) that automatically returns the post to its predetermined angular range after connection, and the abutment device that dynamically engages to prevent disassembly. This dynamic behavior enables rapid connection operations without manual tightening while ensuring secure fastening.
2Reliability
If hooks are used to attach connectors, then satisfactory fastening reliability is achieved, but connection and disconnection operations become difficult in very small spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from the conventional hook-based lateral engagement to a post-based axial insertion mechanism with angular positioning. The post inserts axially into the fastening passage and engages the abutment device through radial displacement, utilizing multiple dimensions of movement (axial insertion + angular rotation + radial engagement) to achieve secure fastening in confined spaces with improved ease of operation.
3Volume of moving object
If connectors are miniaturized for small space applications, then space constraints are satisfied, but fastening and unfastening operations become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is designed to be self-servicing: the angular returning means (spring) automatically returns the post to its predetermined angular range after insertion, and the abutment device automatically engages to lock the connection. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual tightening operations even in miniaturized connectors, maintaining ease of operation despite reduced size.
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
Enables reliable alignment and secure connection while allowing rapid disconnection without external tools, specifically suited for miniaturized applications like the MIL-DTL-32139 standard, improving operational efficiency in constrained spaces.
Implementation Method 1
angular returning means, comprising for example a spring, configured to return the post into said predetermined angular range relative to the axis of the post
Data Source
AI summary
A connection assembly including a first connector comprising a post, and a second connector.A body of the second connector comprises a fastening passage. The post can penetrate into said fastening passage by moving in a fastening direction, so as to reach a fastening position. In the fastening position, the post cannot move in a disassembly direction opposite to the fastening direction. The connectors are configured in such a manner that an external action applied solely to the post allows the post to pass from the fastening position to a free position, in which the post can move in translation in the disassembly direction.In fastening position, the post is in a predetermined angular range. The connection assembly further comprises angular returning means to return the post into said predetermined angular range relative to the axis of the post, when the post is fastened to a body of the first connector.