Side-Loaded Connector Fastener With Integrated Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interface connector systems are costly and complex due to the need for custom retention hardware and manual assembly, which increases manufacturing time and vulnerability to vibration and movement.
Innovation Solution
A connector system with a housing having a cavity and receiving channel that allows side-loading of fasteners with compliant mounting shoulders, enabling secure and removable fastener placement within the cavity to limit transaxial movement while allowing rotation, thus simplifying assembly and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If custom retention hardware with multiple components is used to secure the interface connector, then reliability against vibration and movement is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple retention components (screw, locking ring, groove structure) into an integrated retention mechanism where the housing itself provides the retention structure. The housing includes a retention feature with a cavity and receptacle that directly engage with the connector, eliminating the need for separate custom-made screws and locking rings, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, contains the contact array, and incorporates the retention feature to secure the connector. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for dedicated retention hardware, reducing both complexity and manufacturing cost while ensuring reliable connection under vibration and movement
2Reliability
If custom retention hardware with multiple assembly stages is used, then connector stability is improved, but manufacturing time and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The retention feature is designed as a segmented structure with a cavity portion and a receptacle portion that can be assembled in stages. The interface connector can be inserted into the cavity first, then the housing is secured by engaging the receptacle, allowing for simplified multi-stage assembly without requiring specialized tooling or complex procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The retention feature is designed to be self-aligning and self-securing. The cavity and receptacle geometries guide the assembly process automatically, eliminating the need for specialized assembly tools or complex manual procedures, thus reducing assembly time and complexity while ensuring stable connection
3Reliability
If specialized parts and manual assembly with specialized tooling are used, then connector stability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention feature is designed using standard manufacturing processes and common materials rather than expensive custom-made components. The housing-integrated retention structure can be produced through conventional molding or machining, eliminating the need for costly specialized parts and reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining adequate stability for the application
Data Source
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AI summary
A connector system (100) includes an interface connector (102) having a housing (110) having a main body (112) holding a contact array (150) therein. The housing extends between a front end (114) and a back end (116) along a mating axis (106). The housing includes a cavity (122) therein open to the front end and open to the back end. The cavity is situated proximate to a side (118) of the housing. The cavity has a receiving channel (126) open to the side of the housing. The receiving channel has mounting shoulders (144) at least partially extending therein. The interface connector also includes a fastener (130) having a retention surface (134). The fastener is configured to be side-loaded into the receiving channel through the side of the housing. The mounting shoulders engage the fastener within the cavity to limit transaxial movement of the fastener along the mating axis.