Separable Connector Push-Pull Mechanism Shears Adhesion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional separable connector systems face difficulties in safely and easily separating connector assemblies due to interface adhesion, particularly when multiple connectors are involved, leading to deformation and ergonomic issues during disconnection operations.
Innovation Solution
A push-then-pull operation method is introduced, where the connectors are pushed together to shear interface adhesion, making it easier to pull them apart, with specific clearance regions and a latching mechanism to accommodate relative movement and reduce surface contact, allowing for safe and efficient disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If connectors are separated by pulling directly, then electrical disconnection is achieved, but high force is required causing connector deformation and operator injury
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pushing the connectors together before pulling them apart. This push action pre-shears the lubricant bond and creates initial separation, reducing the force needed during the subsequent pull operation. The connector assembly includes a push button that initiates this preliminary separation action, making the final disconnection easier and safer.
Solution Approach 2:
The separation operation is segmented into two distinct phases: a push phase that shears the lubricant bond, and a pull phase that completes the separation. This segmentation allows each phase to be optimized independently, with the push phase handling the high-force bond breaking and the pull phase handling the lower-force final separation.
2Productivity
If multiple connector pairs are separated simultaneously, then efficiency is improved, but interface adhesion makes separation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple connector pairs into a single ganged assembly that can be separated simultaneously by a single operator action. The common housing and shared push button allow all connector pairs to be separated in one operation, improving productivity while maintaining ease of operation through the preliminary push action that reduces interface adhesion effects.
3Ease of operation
If twisting operation is used to break interface adhesion, then connector separation becomes easier, but connector assemblies are deformed and operator injury occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the twisting mechanical operation with a linear push-then-pull motion. The push button mechanism converts rotational twisting into a linear pushing action that shears the lubricant bond without deforming the connector assemblies, maintaining their structural integrity and reliability.
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 push-then-pull method effectively reduces the force required for disconnection, preventing connector deformation and ergonomic strain, enabling safe and efficient separation of multiple connector pairs in power distribution networks.
Implementation Method 1
pushing the connectors together shears interface adhesion between the connectors
Data Source
AI summary
Separating connector assemblies of a separable connector system. The separable connector assemblies include one or more pairs of connectors configured to engage and disengage one another in electrical connection and disconnection operations, respectively. An operator can disengage the connectors by pushing the connectors together and then pulling the connectors apart. Pushing the connectors together shears interface adhesion between the connectors, making it easier for the operator to pull the connectors apart. One of the connectors can include a nose end having an undercut segment configured to not engage an interior surface of the other connector when the connectors are engaged. Limiting the surface area of the nose end that interfaces with the interior surface of the other connector reduces surface adhesion and a pressure drop when separating the connectors, making separation easier to perform.