Push-Pull Connector Locking Element with Resilient Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing push-pull connectors require excessive force and abrupt release when disconnecting from sockets, making it difficult to meter and estimate the force required for separation.
Innovation Solution
A securing element with a cylindrical base, guide wall, and resilient spring design that allows for controlled disengagement by moving the spring along the connection direction, reducing the force needed for actuation and enabling easier and more precise separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a securing element with securing lugs is used to prevent detachment, then connection reliability is improved, but excessive force is required for separation
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element incorporates a resilient spring that can dynamically change its state between engaged and disengaged positions. The spring's elasticity allows it to flex during connection and release during disconnection, transforming the static securing mechanism into a dynamic one that requires less force for separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring's physical state changes during operation - compressed during engagement and extended during disengagement. This parameter change allows the securing element to transition between high-strength connection and low-force release states, resolving the contradiction between connection reliability and separation force.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional securing elements are used, then connection stability is maintained, but the release process becomes abrupt and unpredictable
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient spring provides a gradual transition during release by flexing and extending progressively rather than snapping abruptly. This dynamic behavior allows the operator to control the release process smoothly, transforming an unpredictable abrupt release into a controlled gradual disengagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring acts as a cushioning element that absorbs and distributes the release energy gradually. By pre-positioning this elastic element, the system prepares for a controlled release that prevents sudden jerky movements, improving ease of operation while maintaining connection stability during use.
3Strength
If securing lugs engage firmly in the socket, then connection strength is improved, but force metering becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The spring's gradual extension during release provides a measurable parameter change that can be used to estimate the force required. By observing the spring's deflection and extension progress, operators can meter and estimate the separation force, transforming an unmeasurable abrupt force into a gradually varying measurable parameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring's physical state during engagement and disengagement provides visual and tactile feedback about the force being applied. This feedback mechanism allows operators to sense and estimate the required separation force, improving force metering precision while maintaining strong connection during use.
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 design facilitates a simple and convenient release of the push-pull connector from the socket by reducing the required force and allowing for better force estimation, improving the operational delicacy and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
at least one spring which extends from the base along the connection direction, the at least one spring having a nose and being spaced from the at least one guide wall by recesses
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
One aspect concerns a locking element (1) for a push-pull connector (100) for connecting the push-pull connector (100) to a complementary plug socket, comprising: - a cylindrical base (3) extending from an initial position (AP) along a connection direction; - a cylindrical locking area (2), wherein the locking area (2) extends from the base (3) along the connection direction to an end position (EP), the locking area (2) further comprising: - at least one guide wall (5) extending from the base (3) along the connection direction to the end position (EP);and - at least one spring (6) extending from the base (3) along the connection direction, wherein the at least one spring (6) has a nose (9) and wherein the at least one spring (6) is spaced apart from the at least one guide wall (5) by recesses (4), and wherein the at least one spring (6) in an actuated state is spaced apart from or contacts a termination plane (AE) which is spanned orthogonally to the connection direction at the end position (EP).