Rotating Connector Lock for Snap-Fit Connection Assurance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Some connector assemblies with snap connectors lack sufficient connection assurance and may not adequately restrict movement, leading to incomplete assembly or unintended disconnection.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly design featuring a body with apertures and a rotating member that rotates to engage protrusions with contact portions, restricting relative movement between the body and mating member, thereby ensuring secure connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If snap connectors are used for connection, then the assembly process is simple and quick, but the connection assurance is insufficient and movement restriction is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating member transitions from a movable state during assembly to a locked rotational position that prevents further movement. The member rotates to engage protrusions with contact portions, dynamically changing from an unlocked to a locked state that provides both ease of assembly and secure connection assurance.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism is divided into distinct functional elements: the rotating member with protrusions, the contact portions on the body and mating member, and the locked position. This segmentation allows the assembly process to be simple while the locked state provides robust movement restriction and connection assurance.
2Device complexity
If snap connectors are used for connection, then the device structure is simple, but the movement restriction is insufficient leading to unintended disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating member provides a simple yet effective mechanism that transitions from a free rotational state to a locked position. This dynamic element adds minimal structural complexity while providing substantial movement restriction through the engagement of protrusions with contact portions in the locked state.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating member acts as an intermediary element between the body and the mating member. Through its protrusions engaging with contact portions, it mediates the connection and provides reliable movement restriction without requiring complex direct coupling mechanisms.
3Reliability
If protrusions engage contact portions via rotation, then connection assurance is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating member with protrusions provides a dynamic locking mechanism that enhances connection assurance. The rotation to locked position creates reliable engagement between protrusions and contact portions, providing strong movement restriction while maintaining relatively simple overall connector structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism is segmented into the rotating member with protrusions and the corresponding contact portions. This segmentation enables reliable connection assurance through the engagement interface while keeping each component relatively simple in structure, avoiding the need for complex integrated designs.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly may include a body including a first aperture and a second aperture; a rotating member disposed at least partially in the first aperture; and/or a mating member having a portion disposed at least partially in the second aperture. The rotating member may be configured to rotate to limit movement of the mating member.