Sliding Locking Plate for Multi-Section Housing Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional toggle-lever-based locking systems for multi-part housings require solid construction due to high forces and complex joint systems, making them mechanically complex and difficult to assemble, with locking hooks needing to be placed around pins before actuation, which complicates the locking and unlocking process.
Innovation Solution
A mechanically simple locking system using a sliding element with a spring-elastic locking plate arranged symmetrically on both sides of the connector housing, where the locking plate is connected to the upper housing half via locking pins, allowing for resilient pressing of the housing halves together, and is released by pulling the sliding element towards the upper half, utilizing a guide ramp and V-shaped bending mechanism for reliable guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional toggle-lever-based locking systems are used, then reliable locking is achieved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple joint systems and bracket elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex joint systems (pivot joints, suspension points) from conventional toggle-lever locking mechanisms. The locking system is reduced to a single lever element that directly engages with locking and bearing pins, removing unnecessary intermediate components while maintaining reliable locking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system is segmented into distinct functional elements: the lever with its specific geometry, locking pins for engagement, and bearing pins for support. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while reducing overall complexity compared to integrated joint systems.
2Force
If conventional toggle-lever-based locking systems are used, then locking force is sufficient, but the parts must be built solidly increasing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The lever element is designed with locally optimized geometry: a thicker cross-section at the locking end to withstand high locking forces, and a thinner cross-section toward the bearing pin to reduce material usage. This local quality variation allows the part to be both strong where needed and easy to manufacture overall.
3Reliability
If locking hooks are placed around locking pins before actuation, then proper engagement is achieved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The lever is pre-positioned and pre-oriented during assembly so that when the locking operation is initiated, the locking end is already correctly positioned to engage with the locking pin. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for manual alignment steps, making the operation simpler while ensuring reliable engagement.
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
This design achieves a secure, tight seal against environmental influences and reduces the number of components and assembly complexity by replacing pivot joints with contact surfaces, allowing for a sliding movement that aligns with the assembly direction, enhancing ease of handling and assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-elastic locking plate is arranged inside, which is bent apart in a V-shape under tension between the outer retaining tabs held on the bearing pins and the centrally arranged locking tab from their otherwise common surface
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A locking system is proposed for locking a housing consisting of at least two parts, in particular a connector housing, which operates similarly to a toggle lever mechanism. A locking plate (10) is arranged on both sides of a first and a second housing half (3, 6) within a shell-shaped sliding element (20). This locking plate is movably held on the second housing half (6) by bearing pins (7), while detent pins (4) are provided on the first housing half (3). These detent pins engage with corresponding window openings (12) in the locking plate (10) when the sliding element (20) is moved into its locking position to hold the two housing halves (3, 6) together.