Receptacle Terminal With Segmented Elastic Arms
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Receptacle terminals with single integral curved elastic arms exert excessive contact pressure on plug terminals, making insertion difficult due to high insertion force requirements.
Innovation Solution
A receptacle terminal design featuring multiple pairs of elastic arms with varying distances from the base portion, where the middle pair has a greater elastic deformation, reducing overall contact pressure by distributing force more evenly, allowing easier insertion and secure clamping of the plug terminal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single integral curved elastic arm is used, then the overall rigidity is improved, but the contact pressure becomes excessively large making insertion difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The single integral elastic arm is divided into multiple separate elastic arms (first elastic arm, second elastic arm, third elastic arm). Each elastic arm independently contacts the plug terminal at different positions, distributing the contact pressure and reducing the force required for insertion while maintaining adequate rigidity through the combined structure.
2Ease of operation
If multiple pairs of elastic arms with varying distances are used, then the contact pressure is reduced and insertion is easier, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different elastic arms are positioned at different distances from the base portion to create localized variations in contact pressure. The first and third elastic arms are positioned farther away to provide stable contact, while the second elastic arm is positioned closer to provide additional support during insertion. This local differentiation optimizes insertion ease without requiring complex adjustable mechanisms.
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 reduces the insertion force required for plug terminals, making the insertion process easier while maintaining secure contact and preventing the plug from shaking or moving within the receptacle terminal.
Implementation Method 1
A distance from the contact portions of a middle pair of elastic arms to the base portion is less than a distance from the contact portions of another two pairs of elastic arms to the base portion
Data Source
AI summary
A receptacle terminal includes a base portion having a plate shape extending in a transverse direction and a longitudinal direction and a plurality of pairs of elastic arms arranged in sequence and spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. Each of the elastic arms has a contact portion contacting a plug terminal inserted into the receptacle terminal. A distance from the contact portions of a middle pair of elastic arms to the base portion is less than a distance from the contact portions of another two pairs of elastic arms to the base portion.