Push-Pull Plug Connector Locking to Prevent Accidental Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push-pull connectors are prone to accidental disconnection due to their simple design, which can lead to unwanted consequences, especially in densely packed arrangements.
Innovation Solution
A push-pull connector with a rotatable locking element that moves between open and locked positions, blocking the sliding element's movement to prevent accidental unlocking, allowing one-handed operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple push-pull locking mechanism is used, then the connector design remains simple and easy to manufacture, but the connector becomes prone to accidental disconnection and lacks reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent parts: a first locking means (locking cam and locking groove) for automatic locking, and a second locking means (securing element with securing protrusions) for preventing accidental unlocking. This segmentation allows each locking mechanism to perform its specific function without interfering with the other, thereby improving overall reliability while keeping the design manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element is designed to be rotatable into a blocking position that prevents the sliding element from moving before the unlocking action is intentionally initiated. This preliminary positioning of the securing element provides advance protection against accidental disconnection while maintaining the simplicity of the base locking mechanism.
2Reliability
If an additional securing element is added to prevent accidental unlocking, then connection reliability improves, but the device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element is designed to be rotatable by the user's finger or tool, allowing one-handed operation. The securing protrusions automatically engage with the sliding element when the securing element is rotated to the blocking position, eliminating the need for complex additional mechanisms or two-handed operation. The system serves itself through the geometric relationship between the securing protrusions and sliding element features.
3Ease of manufacture
If the connector design is simplified for ease of manufacture, then production cost decreases, but the connector lacks protection against inadvertent disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into a basic locking function (first locking means) and a protective function (second locking means). The first locking means uses simple cam and groove geometry that is easy to manufacture, while the second locking means adds minimal complexity with the rotatable securing element and protrusions, providing accidental disconnection protection without significantly complicating the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element is designed to be rotatable, transitioning between a non-blocking position (allowing normal operation) and a blocking position (preventing accidental unlocking). This dynamic feature adds minimal manufacturing complexity while providing significant reliability improvement, as it uses simple rotational motion rather than complex mechanical systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a plug connector which has a base body and a slide element (1), wherein the base body has a plug side and a connection side, wherein the plug connector forms a plug axis (A) which extends from the plug side to the connection side through plug the connector, wherein the slide element (1) surrounds the base body and is arranged on the same to be movable along the plug axis (A). The connector additionally has a securing element (2), wherein the securing element (2) is arranged between the slide element (1) and the connection side of the plug connector, and wherein the securing element (2) is arranged on the base body to be movable between an open position and a locked position.