Ratchet Connector Coupling for Secure Locking and Easy Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector devices face issues with inconvenient separation and easy uncoupling due to reliance on locking grooves or lack thereof, leading to potential accidental separation.
Innovation Solution
A ratchet gear mechanism comprising a toothed gear, ratchet gear, stopper, and spring, allowing for secure coupling and convenient separation by controlling the direction of rotation through the stopper's interaction with gear teeth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a locking groove and locking part are used to couple the first connector and the second connector, then the coupling strength is improved, but the ease of separation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking part is designed to transition between a locked position (engaging the locking groove) and an unlocked position (disengaged from the locking groove). This dynamic mechanism allows the connector to maintain strong coupling during normal use while enabling easy separation when needed by simply pressing the release button to shift the locking part to the unlocked position.
Solution Approach 2:
The release button serves as an intermediary element that controls the state of the locking part. By pressing the release button, the locking part is actuated to move between locked and unlocked positions, providing a user-friendly interface for controlling the coupling state without requiring direct manipulation of the locking groove or locking part themselves.
2Ease of operation
If no locking groove and locking part are used, then the ease of separation is improved, but the reliability of coupling deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector automatically maintains its coupled state through the automatic engagement of the locking part with the locking groove upon insertion. The spring-loaded locking part self-actuates to engage the locking groove, ensuring reliable coupling without requiring additional locking actions from the user, while still allowing easy release through the release button.
3Reliability
If the connector is designed for secure coupling, then the safety is improved, but the convenience of disconnection deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The release button acts as a mediator that provides mechanical advantage and controlled actuation of the locking part. By pressing the release button, the user can easily overcome the locking force without requiring excessive force or complex manipulation, thus maintaining safety during normal use while enabling convenient disconnection when needed.
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
Enhances safety and convenience by ensuring connectors remain coupled unless intentionally separated, preventing accidental uncoupling and facilitating easy disconnection when needed.
Implementation Method 1
the stopper may continuously move from a groove to another groove between the gear teeth of the ratchet gear while being pulled in a direction toward the ratchet gear by the elastic force of the spring
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a connector device comprising: a first connector which is fastened to a substrate, and comprises a terminal body having an opening provided in one surface thereof and a terminal provided in the opening and electrically connected to the substrate; a second connector which is fastened to an electric wire, and comprises a socket body inserted into the opening of the terminal body and a socket provided inside the socket body and contacting the terminal; and a ratchet part by which the first connector and the second connector are coupled so as not to be separated or uncoupled so as to be separable. The ratchet part comprises a toothed gear, a ratchet gear, and a stopper.