Pushbutton Plug-In Connector With Tilt-Spring Lock Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-in connectors require complex operation for locking and unlocking, which can be cumbersome and prone to unintentional release.
Innovation Solution
A plug-in connector design featuring an asymmetric annular coil spring with multiple orientations, a pushbutton with grooves, and a mechanism allowing the coil spring to tilt between locking and release positions, enabling simple one-handed operation and secure locking and unlocking by pressing the pushbuttons together.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex locking device with multiple components is used, then the reliability of locking is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking components (first and second locking levers, spring elements, and engagement features) into a unified locking mechanism that operates through a single pushbutton action. The first and second locking levers work together with the pushbutton to provide both locking and unlocking functions, eliminating the need for separate complex operations while maintaining reliable locking through the coordinated action of multiple spring elements and engagement features.
2Ease of operation
If a simple locking mechanism with minimal components is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of locking deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different functional features at different locations within the locking mechanism. The first locking lever engages with a first engagement feature while the second locking lever engages with a second engagement feature, creating localized locking points that collectively ensure reliable locking. The spring elements are positioned to provide localized elastic forces at specific engagement points, maintaining reliability through distributed local features rather than a single complex component.
3Adaptability or versatility
If asymmetric coil springs with multiple orientations are used, then the functionality is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic asymmetric coil springs that can change their orientation and engagement state based on the operational requirements. The springs transition between engaged and disengaged states, and between different orientations, in response to pushbutton actuation. This dynamic behavior allows a single spring component to perform multiple functions (locking and unlocking) without requiring additional static components, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.
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 simplifies the operation of the plug-in connector, allowing for easy locking and unlocking with minimal components, enhancing user experience and operational reliability by preventing unintentional release.
Implementation Method 1
an annular, asymmetric coil spring which is arranged in each passage opening with its outer region in the housing channel and which may assume at least two different orientations relative to the passage opening and to the pushbutton pin
Data Source
AI summary
A plug-in connector has two pushbuttons arranged laterally thereon. An annular, asymmetric spiral spring is inserted in such a manner that the spiral spring, in its locking orientation, permits the respective pushbutton pin to move into the plug-in connector housing and prevents the pushbutton pin from moving out of the plug-in connector housing. The spiral spring can tilt from its locking orientation into its release orientation when arranged with its inner region in a release groove of the pushbutton pin. In its release orientation, the spiral spring permits the pushbutton pin to move out of the plug-in connector housing. This permits actuation similar to a ballpoint pen with only a few components and with high operating comfort.