Spring Lock Interface for Cross-Thread-Free Cable Connections

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing interface devices for securing and locking electrical connectors lack efficient mechanisms to prevent cross-threading and contamination, while also accommodating larger wire bundles.

Innovation Solution

The interface device incorporates a test adapter assembly with a multi-start Acme lead screw and a locking mechanism that includes a spring lock nut and a handle, allowing for consistent low-torque engagement and preventing cross-threading, while the angled collar design accommodates larger wire bundles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a standard locking mechanism is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot prevent cross-threading and contamination

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprevention of cross-threading and contaminationVSAvoidlocking mechanism structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring-loaded locking pins are pre-positioned and automatically engage with the receptacle slots before the threading operation begins. This preliminary positioning ensures that the threaded rod cannot be cross-threaded and prevents contamination by establishing the correct alignment and sealed connection in advance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If a straight collar design is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate larger wire bundles

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecable capacityVSAvoidcollar structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The collar is designed with an angled configuration rather than a straight alignment, creating additional spatial dimension for wire bundle routing. This angular orientation allows larger wire bundles to be accommodated by utilizing the angled space, effectively increasing cable capacity without significantly complicating the overall collar structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 reliable and contamination-free connection for electrical connectors, preventing cross-threading and allowing larger wire bundles to be securely attached, thus enhancing the efficiency and durability of the interface device.

Implementation Method 1

spring lock nut

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

multi start Acme lead screw provides a, consistent, low torque means of engagement

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentEP3955009B1Spring lock interface with increased cable capacity

Publication Date: 2025.06.11 VIRGINIA PANEL

Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C

AI summary

A test adapter assembly for an interface. The test adapter assembly has a test adapter frame having a first pair of opposing sides, a second pair of opposing sides and an engagement mechanism support member, the second pair of opposing sides being shorter than the first pair of opposing side, the first and second pairs of opposing sides forming a test adapter face; and a collar support member, the collar support member having plate portion mounted to one of the second pair of opposing sides of the test adapter frame and a collar mounting portion extending from the plate portion at an angle of 40-50° relative to the face of the test adapter frame;