Rotating Lock Cable Connector Assembly for Thin Casings
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Solution Overview
Problem
The limited space in thinner and smaller computer and server casings poses a challenge for cable connectors, as existing connectors like side-by-side RADSOK connectors have insufficient demounting clearance due to the confined space around them.
Innovation Solution
A cable connector assembly featuring a fixing apparatus with a rotatable locking member and an accommodating unit that includes a retaining member and grooves, allowing for compact installation and secure retention of the cable connector, utilizing a pivot pin and notch for space-saving design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional cable connectors are used in thinner casings, then the connector can be installed, but the demounting clearance becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing apparatus is divided into separate functional components: an accommodating unit for housing the connector and a rotatable locking member for securing it. This segmentation allows the connector assembly to have a smaller overall footprint while maintaining secure installation, thus reducing the space required in the casing.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member utilizes rotational motion to transition between locked and unlocked states, converting a linear demounting action into a rotational one. This dimensional change allows for more compact design as the locking mechanism operates in a different motion plane, reducing the clearance needed in the original linear direction.
2Reliability
If the locking member is made rotatable between locking and unlocking positions, then the cable connector can be securely retained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is designed to be manually operable without requiring additional tools or complex actuation mechanisms. The user can directly rotate the locking member to lock or unlock the connector, making the system self-sufficient and avoiding the need for extra actuators, motors, or control systems that would increase complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member integrates multiple functions into a single component: it serves as both the securing element and the operating interface. The locking member combines the functions of a latch, a handle, and a positional indicator into one unified rotatable part, reducing the total number of components and simplifying the overall mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing apparatus for fixing at least one cable connector in a cable connector assembly includes an accommodating unit and a locking member rotatably connected to the accommodating unit. The accommodating unit includes a space accommodating the cable connector, a member fixed in the accommodating space for fixing the cable connector in place, and a first groove and a second groove. The locking member is rotatable between a locking position and an unlocking position. When the locking member is rotated to the unlocking position, the locking member is received and latched in the first groove; and when the locking member is rotated to the locking position, the locking member is received and latched in the second groove.