Quick Lock Interconnect Slide Latch Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical interconnect systems in aerospace vehicles are inefficient in terms of space, weight, and cost, requiring excessive volume, unique bracket designs, and labor-intensive installation processes, which hinder the ability to accommodate increasing electrical connections and reduce assembly flow times.
Innovation Solution
The development of a quick lock production interconnect system that uses a slide latch coupling mechanism, thermoplastic materials with metallic plating, and modular brackets to reduce installation costs and time, eliminate the need for specialized tools and mechanical fasteners, and incorporate polarization features to prevent misconnection, allowing for efficient assembly and reduced weight and volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional circular connectors are used, then electrical connections can be established, but excessive volume is required and weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate halves that can be assembled together. This segmentation allows for more efficient space utilization and reduces the overall packaging volume required compared to conventional circular connectors, while also reducing weight through optimized material distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design transitions from a traditional circular cross-section to a D-shaped or split configuration, utilizing dimensional optimization to reduce the bounding box volume while maintaining electrical connection functionality. This dimensional change allows tighter packing and reduced overall volume.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional rectangular connectors are used, then packing ratio improves, but unique bracket designs are required for each location increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with universal mounting features including integrated brackets and standardized attachment mechanisms that can be used across multiple locations and applications. This eliminates the need for custom bracket designs for each location, reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is merged with the connector body as an integrated component rather than a separate piece. This integration eliminates the need for unique bracket designs and simplifies the overall device while maintaining the ability to accommodate various mounting locations.
3Reliability
If conventional connectors with mechanical fasteners are used, then secure electrical connections are achieved, but installation time and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector replaces traditional mechanical fasteners (screws, bolts, rivets) with a friction-fit or snap-together mechanism that achieves secure electrical connections without requiring tools or complex mechanical assembly. This substitution maintains connection reliability while dramatically reducing installation time and eliminating the need for specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design incorporates self-aligning and self-securing features that allow the connection to be made without external tools or complex procedures. The friction-fit mechanism automatically secures the connection when components are brought together, enabling rapid installation while maintaining reliable electrical contact.
4Reliability
If conventional connectors are used, then electrical connections are established, but polarization features are missing leading to potential misconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates asymmetric features including a D-shape cross-section or polarization keys that prevent incorrect mating. This asymmetry provides built-in polarization guidance that ensures proper connection orientation while preventing misconnection, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing overall structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Electrical connection devices and systems for the electrical interconnection of systems and components within an aerospace vehicle, such as a production airplane, are disclosed. A typical quick lock interconnect comprises a manually installed and coupled modular electrical connector. The connector receptacles may be designed to “snap” onto a structural support, such as a stamped and formed or extruded rail, providing an inherent electrical ground path. A typical quick lock production interconnect may be fabricated from thermoplastic materials and plated with a metallic finish to provide for electrical bonding and shielding. The connector device may also include a novel slide latch coupling mechanism that provides a positive visual indication of a fully coupled connector eliminating the need for specialized tools. The structural support may be part of an aircraft fuselage section where the plurality of electrical connector shells each support the one or more electrical conductors coupled between separate fuselage sections.