Ribbon Cable Connector With Sliding Cover for Precise Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for ribbon cables in industrial control and data network systems lack efficient and universal solutions for easy assembly and component reuse, particularly in maintaining proper alignment and secure connections within the network.
Innovation Solution
A connector system comprising a housing, cable organizer, and cover with a sliding cover mechanism that aligns and secures the ribbon cable, allowing for universal parts and common tooling across different connectors, facilitating easy assembly and secure connections by using a cable organizer with inverse ribbon profiles and a cover with ribs that translate along tracks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional connector design is used for ribbon cables, then the connector structure is simple, but the alignment and secure connection of the ribbon cable cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple functional components: a housing, a cable organizer with inverse ribbon profiles, and a cover with sliding mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function (alignment, organization, securing) while collectively achieving reliable connection without excessive overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The cable organizer is pre-configured with inverse ribbon profiles that automatically align the ribbon cable conductors with the corresponding contact elements before the cover is closed. This preliminary alignment action ensures proper connection without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms during assembly
2Manufacturing precision
If a connector design without sliding cover mechanism is used, then the assembly process is simple, but the alignment precision of the ribbon cable cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed with a sliding mechanism that moves dynamically during assembly. The cover slides along guide walls to progressively close over the ribbon cable, maintaining alignment precision throughout the motion. This dynamic closing process ensures precise alignment without requiring complex positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The guide walls act as an intermediary element between the cover and housing, providing a controlled sliding path. This intermediary mechanism translates the simple sliding motion into precise alignment action, bridging the gap between ease of operation and manufacturing precision
3Productivity
If universal parts and common tooling are not used, then the connector can be optimized for specific applications, but the assembly efficiency and component reuse cannot be improved
Solution Approach 1:
The connector components, particularly the housing, cable organizer, and cover assembly, are designed as universal parts that can be used across different connector applications. The standardized interface and modular design allow the same components to serve multiple functions and be reused in different configurations, improving assembly efficiency without sacrificing application-specific performance
Data Source
AI summary
A connector for receiving a ribbon cable is provided. The connector includes a housing including an open top and a guide wall including a track and a cable organizer configured to be positioned within an interior of the housing and the open top and to receive the ribbon cable along a surface thereof. The connector also includes a cover configured to selectively cover the open top of the housing to enclose the cable organizer within the interior of the housing. The cover includes a rib configured to slide along the track so that the cover moves relative to the housing along a linear trajectory.