Spring Clip Connector Latching on Wiring Carrier
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Solution Overview
Problem
In overvoltage protection arrangements for information and telecommunications technology, existing connectors are complex to connect and disconnect, especially in limited spaces, requiring numerous screw terminals and separate cable connections, which complicates handling and increases the risk of functional failures due to improper connection or disconnection.
Innovation Solution
A compact electrical connector design featuring an insulating housing with insertion openings for contact pins and insulation-free conductor ends, combined with a spring clip that engages a hook-like projection for secure latching and can be easily unlocked using a tool, allowing for secure attachment to a wiring carrier or printed circuit board, and enabling easy detachment without damaging the soldered connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a compact connector design is used to reduce size, then space utilization is improved, but the risk of accidental disconnection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring clip provides a dynamic locking mechanism that automatically engages with the hook-like projection when the connector is inserted, creating a resilient connection that can withstand pulling forces while maintaining compact dimensions. The spring's elastic deformation allows for easy release when force is applied, solving both the compact size and reliable connection requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring clip acts as an intermediary element between the connector housing and the connector strip, providing the locking function without requiring the connector itself to be large or complex. This mediator component enables reliable connection while keeping the main connector body compact.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent accidental disconnection, then connection stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted from the main connector housing and implemented as a separate spring clip component. This separation allows the connector housing to remain simple and compact while the locking mechanism provides the necessary reliability independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring clip automatically engages with the hook-like projection when the connector is inserted, providing self-locking without requiring additional actuators or complex mechanisms. The elastic nature of the spring provides automatic engagement and disengagement based on applied forces.
3Reliability
If screw terminals are used for secure connection, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex handling
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional screw-terminal mechanical fastening system is replaced with a spring-based elastic locking mechanism. This substitution maintains secure electrical connection while eliminating the need for threading, tightening, and loosening operations, significantly improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The static screw fastening system is replaced with a dynamic spring mechanism that provides continuous contact pressure and automatic engagement. The spring's elastic properties allow for tool-free connection and disconnection while maintaining reliable electrical contact.
4Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for connection and grounding, then functional reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring clip integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides mechanical locking, electrical contact, and grounding functionality simultaneously. The conductive material of the spring clip eliminates the need for separate grounding wires or contacts, reducing component count while maintaining functional reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring clip serves multiple purposes: it acts as a locking mechanism, an electrical contact element, and a grounding path. This multi-functional design reduces the overall component count while ensuring proper electrical connection and safety grounding.
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 solution provides a compact, secure, and easily removable connector system that prevents accidental disconnection, simplifies handling, and maintains electrical integrity by ensuring secure contact and easy release, addressing the complexity and space constraints in overvoltage protection arrangements.
Implementation Method 1
a spring clip (17), which has a latching section (18), can be fastened to the wiring support, in particular can be soldered directly to the wiring support, wherein the latching section (18) engages, when the connector (6) is plugged onto the connector strip (15), behind the projection (16) protruding from the insulating housing (13) of the connector (6) or strikes thereon
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a
AI summary
The invention relates to an arrangement for releasably fixing an electrical connector on a wiring carrier, wherein the connector consists of an insulating housing which has plug-in openings on opposite housing sides in such a way that electrical contact pins can be inserted, in particular clamped, on a first side and insulation-free ends of electrical conductors can be inserted, in particular clamped, on a second side. Furthermore, a plug strip which is compatible with the plug-in openings on the first side can be fastened to the wiring carrier. The insulating housing has at least one hook- or nose-like projection which protrudes from the insulating housing and which is situated on the housing side wall which extends substantially parallel to the insertion direction for the electrical contact pins. A spring clip is fastened to the wiring carrier, said spring clip having a latching portion which engages behind the projection protruding from the insulating housing of the connector when the connector is plugged onto the plug strip and forms a stop to counter extraction of the connector.