Socket Connector Latch Mechanism for Secure Pin Engagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power connector systems have limitations such as current carrying capacity constraints and difficulties in unmating the pin from the socket, necessitating a cost-effective and reliable socket connector solution.
Innovation Solution
A socket connector system with a housing and latch mechanism that securely engages and disengages with pins, featuring a latch release for easy uncoupling, and multiple pin access openings to accommodate increased current capacity and efficient mating/unmating processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional pin connector system is used, then the structure is simple, but the current carrying capacity is limited and unmating is problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate components: a socket connector with housing and latch mechanism, and a pin connector. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, enabling the socket connector to provide enhanced current carrying capacity through robust construction while maintaining ease of connection and disconnection through the latch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is nested within the housing structure, with the latch movably received in a latch pocket formed in the housing. This nested arrangement allows the latch to be integrated into the overall connector design without adding excessive external complexity, while still providing reliable engagement and disengagement functionality.
2Reliability
If a secure connection is provided, then reliability is improved, but ease of unmating deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The latch is designed to be movable between a latched position (providing secure connection) and an unlatched position (enabling easy disconnection). The latch can be actuated by moving the latch body within the latch pocket, allowing transition between engaged and disengaged states. This dynamic mechanism ensures reliable connection during operation while enabling easy unmating when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed to maintain engagement automatically once connected, providing self-latching functionality. The latch engages with the pin connector and remains in the latched position without requiring continuous external force, ensuring secure connection. To disconnect, the user simply actuates the latch release, which moves the latch to the unlatched position, allowing easy removal.
3Reliability
If a latch mechanism is added for secure engagement, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is merged with the housing structure, with the latch movably received in a latch pocket formed directly in the housing. The latch body is integrated with the housing, and the latch release is accessible through the housing structure. This merging reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall assembly, while still providing reliable engagement and disengagement functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides secure engagement of the pin connector, enables easy disconnection through actuation, and maintains connection stability during operation. The single latch structure performs all these functions, avoiding the need for multiple separate mechanisms and reducing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A socket connector includes a housing having a pin access opening through a bottom open to a cavity configured to receive a pin. The socket connector includes a socket in the cavity electrically connected to a pin. The socket connector includes a latch movably received in a latch pocket to engage the pin to secure the socket connector to the pin. The latch includes a latch release accessible exterior of the housing to release the latch. The latch release moves the latch between a latched position and a clearance position. A latching rib of the latch engages the pin in the latched position and is released from the pin in the clearance position to allow uncoupling of the socket connector from the pin.