Rotatable Securing Lock for Connector Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies in the automotive field face challenges with unintentional disengagement due to vibrational loads, and the use of secondary locks, such as connection position assurance (CPA) devices, complicates the assembly process, making it difficult to achieve a reliably securable locking mechanism that is easy to use.
Innovation Solution
A rotatable securing lock with a sliding guide and resilient element, comprising flexible arms and cylindrical parts, is introduced to differentiate between coupling and locking steps, ensuring easier assembly and reducing the risk of mistakes, while preventing unintentional unlatching through immobilization or coverage of the release end.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a secondary lock (CPA device) is used to prevent unintentional disengagement, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the CPA device with the existing latch mechanism into a single integrated locking system. The securing lock is formed by integrating the latch lever and CPA functionality, where the latch lever itself serves as the securing lock that can be rotated to provide both latching and CPA functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate locking components
Solution Approach 2:
The latch lever is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both the latching mechanism for connecting the first and second connectors, and simultaneously serves as the securing lock (CPA device) that prevents unintentional disengagement. This multi-functional design allows a single component to provide both connection and security assurance
2Reliability
If a secondary lock (CPA device) is used to prevent unintentional disengagement, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the CPA operation with the latching operation into a single user action. When the user pushes the connectors together, the latch lever automatically performs both the latching function and the CPA securing function in one continuous motion, eliminating the need for separate assembly steps for locking and securing
3Ease of operation
If a rotatable securing lock is used to differentiate coupling and locking steps, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The securing lock is designed with rotational movement capability, allowing it to transition between different positions (engaged and disengaged states). This dynamic rotation provides clear tactile and visual feedback to the user about the locking state, making the operation intuitive while the rotational mechanism itself is integrated into the existing latch structure rather than being a separate complex assembly
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
The solution provides a durable and reliable locking mechanism that is simpler to assemble and use, effectively preventing unintentional disengagement by clearly distinguishing between coupling and locking steps and ensuring secure engagement of connectors.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient element forcing the securing lock to slide via the sliding guide into the securing position
Implementation Method 2
The flexible arm can be spring loaded by a slanting surface during movement of the securing lock into its intermediate position
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
A connector assembly (1) comprising a first connector (2), a second connector (3) and a latch (86) for connecting the first and second connectors. A securing lock (29) is rotatable between a release position and a securing position securing the latch in a latching position. Optionally, the assembly (1) comprises a sliding guide (32, 64) and a resilient element (65) forcing the securing lock to slide via the sliding guide into the securing position.