Reinforced Connector Terminal Structure for Secure Locking Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing terminals in connectors have weak single-layer annular structures that lead to easy disengagement from housings and unstable electrical contacts, resulting in unreliable connections.
Innovation Solution
The terminal design includes reinforcement structures at both the front and rear end portions, with U-shaped reinforcement portions enhancing structural strength and multiple electrical contacts for stable engagement, along with a primary locking tab and secondary lock for secure locking in the housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single-layer annular structure is used for the front end portion of the terminal, then the structure is simple, but the structural strength is poor resulting in easy disengagement of the primary locking tab from the housing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a multi-layer composite structure at the front end portion, combining a first annular portion with a first reinforcement portion. The reinforcement portion includes a first bottom plate, first side plate, and first engagement plate that work together to enhance structural strength. This composite structure prevents disengagement of the primary locking tab while maintaining reasonable complexity through integrated design.
2Strength
If a single-layer annular structure is used for the rear end of the mating portion, then the structure is simple, but it has poor strength and is prone to deformation resulting in easy disengagement from the secondary lock
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-layer composite structure at the rear end portion of the mating portion, combining a second annular portion with a second reinforcement portion. The reinforcement portion includes a second bottom plate, second side plate, and second engagement plate that collectively enhance structural strength and prevent deformation, ensuring reliable engagement with the secondary lock.
3Reliability
If only a single cantilever and single electrical contact are formed on the terminal, then the device complexity is low, but the electrical contact between terminals is unstable and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrical contact system into multiple independent cantilevers and electrical contacts arranged in an array. Each cantilever with its electrical contact works independently to establish reliable electrical connection. This segmentation approach ensures that if one contact fails, others can maintain the electrical connection, significantly improving overall reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A terminal includes a primary locking tab and a mating portion having front and rear end portions. The front end portion has a front annular portion and a front reinforcement portion. The front annular portion has a first top wall, a first bottom wall, and a pair of first side walls. The front reinforcement portion has a first bottom plate, a first side plate, and a first engagement plate. The first side plate and the first engagement plate are located on one of two sides of the first bottom plate. The primary locking tab extends obliquely rearward and upward from the front end portion. A root portion of the primary locking tab is connected to a rear side of the first top wall. The first bottom plate abuts an outer side of the first bottom wall. The first side plate, connected to the first top wall, abuts an outer side of one first side wall. The first engagement plate engages with an other first side wall.