Stackable Joint Connector Case for Flexible Terminal Count
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing joint connectors have a limited number of connector cases that can be stacked, and the number of terminals cannot be easily or freely changed.
Innovation Solution
The joint connector design features connector cases with engaging claws and grooves on the side plate parts, allowing for flexible stacking without misalignment and securing the cases firmly, enabling the number of cases and terminals to be freely adjusted.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a case holder is used to accommodate stacked connector cases, then the connector cases are securely held, but the number of connector cases is limited to the maximum capacity of the case holder
Solution Approach 1:
The case holder is divided into multiple individual holding positions, each capable of independently accommodating a connector case. This segmentation allows the system to flexibly hold any number of cases from 1 to N by simply adding or removing cases from available positions, rather than being constrained by a fixed capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The case holder is designed with multiple identical holding positions that can universally accommodate any connector case regardless of its specific configuration. Each holding position provides the same securing function through engaging claws and grooves, making the holder adaptable to different numbers and types of connector cases.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of terminals is fixed in the connector design, then the structure is simplified, but the ability to change terminal count is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The connector case design allows dynamic reconfiguration of the terminal count by enabling the stacking of different numbers of connector cases. Each connector case contains a fixed number of terminals, but the overall terminal count of the joint connector can be dynamically adjusted by adding or removing connector cases from the stack, accommodating varying wiring requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Connector cases are pre-manufactured with standardized terminal configurations and engaging structures. This preliminary preparation allows for easy assembly and disassembly of connector case stacks, enabling rapid reconfiguration of the total terminal count without requiring complex manufacturing processes for each specific configuration.
3Ease of operation
If engaging claws and grooves are provided on side plate parts, then connector cases can be easily stacked and secured, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging claws and grooves are integrated directly into the side plate parts of the connector case, merging the securing function with the structural components. This integration eliminates the need for separate securing mechanisms, as the side plates themselves provide both structural support and stacking engagement through the incorporated claws and grooves.
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging claws and grooves are designed to automatically engage with each other when connector cases are stacked, providing self-aligning and self-securing functionality. The protruding claws fit into the recessed grooves without requiring manual intervention, allowing connector cases to be easily stacked and secured through simple pushing motions.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a joint connector formed by stacking connector cases each accommodating a connection terminal. The connector cases each include a main plate part that holds the connection terminal, and a pair of side plate parts perpendicular to the main plate part and parallel to each other. Inner-side surfaces of distal end portions of the respective side plate parts are provided with engaging claws protruding in a direction toward the opposing side plate parts, respectively, and outer-side surfaces of proximal end portions of the respective side plate parts are provided with engaging grooves recessed in a direction toward the opposing side plate parts, respectively. The connector cases are stacked with the engaging claws of one connector case and the engaging grooves of another connector case engaged with each other, respectively.