Connecting Terminal Locking Structure for Connector Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current locking structures for electrical connecting terminals do not provide stable connections between the terminals and the connector housing, leading to potential disengagement.
Innovation Solution
A connecting terminal design featuring a locking structure with a first and second locking surface on the upper and lower sides of the abutting portion, which extends perpendicularly to the insertion direction, along with elastic tabs and a fixing member to enhance retention within the connector housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking structure is added to prevent disengagement, then connection stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking structure is integrated into the abutting portion as a unified component rather than a separate mechanism. The first and second locking surfaces are formed directly on the abutting portion body, merging the locking function with the existing structural element, thereby improving connection stability without significantly increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is divided into multiple locking surfaces (first locking surface on upper side, second locking surface on lower side) that work together to provide comprehensive locking. This segmentation allows each surface to contribute to overall stability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
2Force
If multiple locking surfaces are provided on upper and lower sides, then retaining force is increased, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking surfaces are formed on a single abutting portion component during one manufacturing process. The first locking surface on the upper side and the second locking surface on the lower side are integrated into the same part, allowing simultaneous formation and reducing manufacturing steps compared to assembling multiple separate locking components
Solution Approach 2:
The locking surfaces are designed with specific geometric parameters (perpendicular to insertion direction, positioned on opposite sides) that optimize retaining force while being compatible with standard manufacturing processes. The perpendicular orientation and strategic positioning maximize mechanical advantage without requiring complex manufacturing techniques
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting terminal is disclosed having a wire connection portion with at least one pair of side arms, and an abutting portion attached at a second end to the wire connection portion. The Abutting portion includes at least one mating terminal receiving chamber and a locking structure. The locking structure includes a locking surface facing the wire connection portion and extending perpendicularly to an insertion direction of the connecting terminal, a first locking surface formed on an upper side of the abutting portion and a second locking surface formed on a lower side of the second end of the abutting portion.