Quick Release Latch for Panel Mount Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors require tools for removal and are susceptible to inadvertent disconnection due to the separation of fixing pins, which can lead to unreliable connections.
Innovation Solution
A quick release locking latch system for electrical connectors that eliminates the need for special tools and ensures the latch remains attached during actuation, utilizing a housing with projections and slots for secure engagement and a latch mechanism that can be actuated manually without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tool is used to remove the fixing pin, then the connector can be securely fastened, but the removal process becomes complex and requires special tools
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to be actuated directly by the user's finger on the external surface of the housing, eliminating the need for separate tools. The thumb actuation feature allows the user to directly engage and disengage the latch without requiring screwdrivers or other specialized removal tools.
2Reliability
If a fixing pin is used to secure the connector, then reliable connection is achieved, but the pin can be separated and lost during removal
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is integrated as an integral part of the connector housing rather than being a separate removable component. This merging ensures that the latch cannot be separated or lost during removal, as it is permanently attached to the housing structure while still providing secure engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch extends from the external surface into the panel opening, creating a multi-dimensional engagement system. The latch has engagement portions that interact with features on both the housing and the panel, providing security in multiple spatial dimensions and preventing inadvertent removal.
3Reliability
If a latch extends into the panel opening, then movement is restricted, but the latch may be inadvertently actuated
Solution Approach 1:
The latch and its engagement features are designed with asymmetric geometries that require a specific actuation motion to disengage. The engagement portions have complementary asymmetric shapes that allow intentional actuation while preventing accidental activation through random forces or misaligned movements.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector is adapted for mounting onto a panel having an opening and slots formed along the opening. A mating connector is disposed within the panel. The connector includes a housing having projections configured and disposed to engage the panel opening, corresponding projections and slots properly aligning the connector with the panel opening. Once the connector engages the panel opening, the connector is moved so that the connector projections are misaligned with the panel opening, preventing removal of the connector from the panel opening. A latch slidably engaged along the connector housing is actuated to a latched position so that the latch is positioned within the panel opening, preventing relative movement of the connector with respect to the panel. The latch cannot be removed from the connector by actuating the latch from a latched to an unlatched position.