Re-wireable Connector with Slidable Handle Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing re-wireable electrical connectors are not convenient for re-wiring, especially for inexperienced users, and often require excessive space due to their length and locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A compact, lockable re-wireable electrical connector design featuring a primary and secondary chassis with a slidable handle and control arm that releases the locking mechanism, allowing for secure cable management and reduced length, facilitating easier assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is incorporated into the connector, then the connector can be securely locked to the mating connector, but the connector length increases requiring more space
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the handle assembly, where the handle itself serves as the locking element. When the handle is in the extended position, it engages with the mating connector to provide locking security, eliminating the need for a separate locking mechanism that would increase connector length.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle performs multiple functions: it provides user grip for operation, serves as the locking mechanism when extended, and acts as a release mechanism when retracted. This multi-functionality allows the connector to achieve secure locking without adding extra components that would increase overall length.
2Ease of operation
If the connector is designed for easy re-wiring by inexperienced persons, then the assembly process becomes simpler, but the connector structure becomes more complex requiring additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into distinct functional modules: a removable handle assembly, a main body housing, and internal terminal components. This segmentation allows inexperienced users to easily access and re-wire the terminals by simply removing the handle, without needing to disassemble the entire connector structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle assembly is extracted as a separate removable component from the main body. This extraction allows users to access the terminals for re-wiring by removing only the handle, simplifying the re-wiring process while keeping the overall connector structure relatively simple through modular design.
3Length of moving object
If the handle is made slidable to enable locking and release, then the connector becomes more compact, but the cable may be subjected to sliding movement
Solution Approach 1:
A cable retention mechanism acts as an intermediary between the slidable handle and the cable. This mechanism prevents the cable from being subjected to harmful sliding movements during handle operation, while still allowing the handle to slide for locking and release functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable retention mechanism applies preliminary counter-action to prevent cable sliding before the sliding damage can occur. By securing the cable against the housing during handle movement, it neutralizes the potential harmful effect of cable displacement.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A re-wirable electrical connector comprising a housing top (13) and a housing base (14) securable together to house a primary chassis member (25), wherein said primary chassis member is removable from the housing top and housing base and comprises at least one terminal (22) to which a cable conductor may be secure, said terminal being configured to be an electrically conductive contact with a terminal socket (21) into which the pin of a complimentary conductor may be inserted.