Sealed Connector PLR Mechanism for Secure Terminal Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors face challenges with fixed locking mechanisms that make maintenance and repair cumbersome, lack flexibility for terminal access, and fail to provide a secure and stable connection, while movable locking devices often compromise stability and reliability.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector design featuring a primary lock reinforcement device (PLR) that moves between three positions - locking, intermediate, and unlocking - to securely lock and release terminals, providing a versatile locking mechanism and clear indication of locking status, allowing for easy access and secure connection without disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed locking mechanisms are used to secure terminals in place, then connection stability is improved, but maintenance and repair become cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed locking mechanism into a movable PLR that can be actuated between different positions. The PLR is biased by a spring and can be moved by an actuator to either block or release the terminal locking features, enabling terminals to be easily accessed without disassembling the entire connector while maintaining secure locking during normal operation.
2Ease of operation
If movable locking devices are incorporated to allow terminal release, then ease of operation is improved, but connection stability and reliability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the locking function into two independent components: the primary locking mechanism that secures terminals in place, and the PLR that acts as a secondary control element. The PLR can be moved independently to block or release the primary locking features, allowing terminal release without compromising the overall connection stability when locked.
3Reliability
If secondary locking means are added to enhance connection security, then connection stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing the PLR to perform multiple functions: it acts as a secondary locking means to enhance connection security, serves as a control element for releasing terminals, and provides a visible indicator of the locking status through its position relative to the housing. This single component accomplishes what would otherwise require multiple separate elements.
4Reliability
If PLR blocks primary locking means to provide secondary locking, then connection stability is improved, but terminal access becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the PLR movable between different positions through a spring bias and actuator mechanism. When the actuator is not engaged, the spring returns the PLR to a position that blocks the primary locking means for enhanced security. When terminal access is needed, the actuator moves the PLR to release the locking, providing both security and accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector is disclosed, including an inner housing with multiple cavities, an outer housing accommodating the inner housing, two terminals housed in the cavities, and a primary lock reinforcement device (PLR). The PLR is mounted on the inner housing and can be moved parallel to the longitudinal direction between three positions: a locking position where the PLR is covered by the outer housing and provides secondary locking means, an intermediate position where the terminals are locked in their final positions, and an unlocking position where the terminals are released. This design allows for secure locking of terminals within the connector while providing ease of unlocking for maintenance or replacement purposes.