Shielded Connector Hook Structure for Stable Fitted Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors face issues with unintentional release of the fitted state when connected to mating connectors, leading to instability and potential disconnection.
Innovation Solution
The connector design includes a shield with an inner curved part and outer curved part connected via an upper coupling part, forming a protrusion that hooks onto the mating shield to maintain the fitted state, preventing unintentional release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the connector uses a conventional shield structure without coupling parts, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the fitted state cannot be maintained and unintentional release occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The shield is divided into multiple functional parts: outer wall, inner wall, and coupling part. The coupling part is further segmented into inner coupling part, outer coupling part, and upper coupling part. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while maintaining overall structural integrity and preventing unintentional release.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling part extends in the insertion/removal direction (first direction) beyond the typical shield structure. The inner curved part and outer curved part create a three-dimensional hook-like structure that engages with the mating shield, adding a new dimensional aspect to the connection mechanism.
2Reliability
If the shield includes coupling parts with curved structures, then the fitted state is maintained reliably, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling part incorporates curved surfaces (inner curved part and outer curved part) that form a hook-like structure. These curved geometries provide reliable engagement with the mating shield while distributing contact stresses, improving reliability without requiring excessively tight tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner coupling part and outer coupling part have asymmetric curved geometries with different radii and profiles. This asymmetry allows the structure to engage unidirectionally with the mating shield, maintaining the fitted state reliably while accommodating manufacturing variations through the geometric design.
3Device complexity
If the shield structure is simplified without coupling parts, then the device complexity is reduced, but the connector cannot prevent unintentional release
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling part is designed to engage with the mating shield during the insertion process itself. The inner curved part and outer curved part form a preliminary mechanical interlock that prevents unintentional release without requiring additional fastening operations or complex assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The shield structure serves dual functions: providing electromagnetic shielding and creating the mechanical coupling to maintain the fitted state. The coupling part integrates the shielding function with the connection function, allowing the shield itself to prevent unintentional release without requiring separate fastening mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector includes a shield that comes into contact with a mating shield of a mating connector in a fitted state where the connector and the mating connector are fitted to each other. The shield includes an outer wall, an inner wall including an inner facing part, and a coupling part coupling the outer wall and the inner wall. The coupling part includes an inner coupling part connected to the inner facing part. The inner coupling part includes an inner curved part curved and bulging toward an inner side of the connector. A step is formed by a first portion and a second portion on an outer surface of the inner curved part. A part of the first portion is located inside the connector with respect to the second portion.