Secondary Retention Connector for Secure Contact Latching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for optical and electrical conductors are complex and costly due to the need for additional retention systems and multiple locking mechanisms, especially in compact designs.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a secondary retention mechanism with two mounting arms and a securing element, allowing for a simple and compact structure while ensuring secure locking of the contact assembly in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional retention systems and multiple locking mechanisms are used to ensure proper connection, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the secondary retention means with the mounting structure by integrating the securing element directly into the mounting arm assembly. This merging reduces the number of separate components while maintaining the dual-functionality of both the mounting and retention mechanisms, thereby improving reliability without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into functionally independent modules: the primary mounting mechanism and the secondary retention means. The secondary retention means can be independently activated or deactivated depending on application requirements, allowing the system to maintain high reliability when needed while avoiding unnecessary complexity when the additional security is not required.
2Reliability
If secondary retention means is added to secure conductors, then connection security is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary retention means is integrated into the existing mounting structure, sharing common components such as the mounting arm and securing element. This merging approach allows the additional security function to be added without requiring completely separate manufacturing processes, thereby limiting the increase in manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting arm serves dual functions: primarily for mounting the contact assembly and secondarily for providing retention through the integrated securing element. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, offsetting the cost of adding the retention capability.
3Reliability
If locking element blocks connection in pre-latched position, then connection security is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed to dynamically transition between the blocking position (pre-latched) and the retracted position (final latched). This dynamic behavior allows the system to provide security during the insertion process while automatically enabling connection once the proper latching sequence is completed, maintaining ease of operation without sacrificing security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking element performs a preliminary blocking action that prevents connection until the secondary retention means is properly engaged. This preliminary action ensures security is established before final connection occurs, but the blocking is temporary and automatically resolved through the normal insertion sequence, maintaining user-friendly operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for connection to a mating connector includes a connector housing having a contact chamber configured to accommodate a contact assembly extending from a contact side toward a mating side, and a secondary retention element having two mounting arms and a securing element disposed therebetween. The connector housing has an access opening. The secondary retention element is movable between a pre-latched and a final latched position. One of the mounting arms has a first latching unit which, in the final latched position, is connected to a first mating latching unit disposed on the connector housing. One of the mounting arms has a locking element extending away parallel to a mating axis, which in the pre-latched position, blocks connection to the mating connector. In the final latched position, the securing element extends through the access opening into the contact chamber and locks the contact assembly in place.