Rocker Terminal Lock for Fast Electrical Connector Terminal Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical connector systems require time-consuming and multi-step processes for removing terminals, necessitating the release of both primary and secondary locking features individually, which affects the efficiency of terminal replacement and recycling.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable terminal lock mechanism that functions as both a secondary lock and a terminal position assurance device, allowing simultaneous release of primary and secondary locking features with a single operation, enabling terminals to be removed quickly and efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple independent locking features are implemented to ensure terminal positional integrity, then reliability of terminal fixation is improved, but device complexity and difficulty of terminal removal increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the secondary lock and terminal position assurance (TPA) device into a single integrated component. The TPA device includes a TPA arm that can engage with terminals to provide both secondary locking and position assurance functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate independent locking features and simplifying the overall structure while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The TPA device is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as a secondary lock to prevent terminal displacement, serves as a position assurance device to detect and prevent incorrect terminal insertion, and can be released to enable terminal removal. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed in the connector system
2Reliability
If multiple independent locking features are implemented to prevent terminal displacement, then reliability is improved, but terminal removal time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the secondary lock and TPA device into one integrated component, the release operation can simultaneously disengage both locking functions with a single action, eliminating the need for multiple sequential release steps and reducing terminal removal time
Solution Approach 2:
The TPA device is designed with a release mechanism that, when actuated, simultaneously releases both the secondary lock engagement and the TPA arm engagement with the terminal. This preliminary coordinated release action allows for rapid terminal removal without requiring multiple separate release operations
3Device complexity
If a rotatable terminal lock mechanism is used to provide both secondary lock and TPA functions, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to maintain positional integrity during operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The TPA arm is designed as a dynamic component that can rotate or pivot between different positions. During normal operation, it maintains an engaged position providing position assurance. During removal, it can be rotated to a released position. This dynamic capability allows a single component to reliably maintain positional integrity when needed while still allowing for controlled release
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
Facilitates rapid and streamlined removal of terminals from the connector assembly without compromising positional integrity, improving the speed and ease of terminal replacement and recycling processes.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic terminal latch fixing the terminal in an installed position within the connector body
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector assembly includes a connector body, a plurality of terminals arranged within the connector body, and a rotatable terminal lock. The plurality of terminals each include an elastic terminal latch fixing the terminal in an installed position within the connector body. The terminal lock is rotatably connected to the connector body between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the unlocked position a first portion of the terminal lock biases each of the terminal latches into a release state whereby the terminals may be removed from connector body in a removal direction. In the locked position a second portion of the terminal lock opposes each of the terminals in the removal direction.