Quick-Lock Connector Clockwork Spring Assembly for Secure Latching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing quick-lock connectors require a spiral spring arranged along the circumferential direction of the rotary sleeve, necessitating bending and an additional guiding mechanism, which can lead to detachment during assembly and increased labor complexity.
Innovation Solution
A clockwork spring is nested between the connector body and the rotary sleeve, acting as an elastic spiral strip to support the assembly, eliminating the need for bending and a guiding mechanism, ensuring secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spiral spring is used for returning the rotary sleeve, then the rotary sleeve can be locked at the engaged position, but the spiral spring must be bent to form an arc shape and requires an additional guide mechanism for assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the spring configuration from a conventional spiral spring requiring arc bending to a clockwork spring with a specific winding structure that can be directly installed in annular grooves. This parameter change in spring geometry eliminates the need for additional guide mechanisms during assembly while maintaining the elastic return function for reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The clockwork spring is nested within annular grooves formed on both the connector body and rotary sleeve, creating a compact integrated structure. This nesting approach eliminates the need for external guide mechanisms and reduces assembly complexity while ensuring the spring remains properly positioned during operation.
2Reliability
If a spiral spring is used, then the locking function is achieved, but the spiral spring can easily detach from the rotary sleeve if improper force is applied
Solution Approach 1:
The clockwork spring is pre-installed within annular grooves on both the connector body and rotary sleeve before final assembly. This beforehand positioning cushions against improper forces during assembly, preventing detachment while maintaining ease of operation. The groove structure provides mechanical guidance and constraint that protects the spring from damage during the assembly process.
3Reliability
If a spiral spring arranged along the circumferential direction is used, then the locking mechanism works, but additional guiding mechanism is required for assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the spring mounting function with the structural components by forming annular grooves directly on the connector body and rotary sleeve. This integration eliminates the need for separate guiding mechanisms, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly processes while maintaining the reliable locking function of the clockwork spring.
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 solution facilitates easy and labor-saving assembly by preventing the clockwork spring from detaching due to improper forces, enhancing the stability and efficiency of the connection process.
Implementation Method 1
a clockwork spring nested between the connector body and the rotary sleeve for elastically supporting
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A quick-lock connector (10) used for a counterpart connector (100) includes a connector body (1), a rotary sleeve (2) and a clockwork spring (3). The rotary sleeve (2) is rotatably disposed around the connector body (1) and includes a latching structure (21) capable of latching the counterpart connector (100). The clockwork spring (3) is nested passes between the connector body (1) and the rotary sleeve (2) for elastically supporting. Thereby, the quick-lock connector (10) has advantages of easy assembling and labor saving.