Terminal Position Assurance Lock for Electric Connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies for electric terminals lack effective resistance against accidental pull-out from the housing, which can lead to improper installation and operational issues in vehicles with multiple electric components.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly featuring a terminal position assurance mechanism with a movable lock that transitions between pre-lock and locked positions, utilizing resilient arms and retainer latches to secure the electric terminals in place, preventing unintended removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the terminal position assurance is made movable to allow transition between pre-lock and locked positions, then resistance to pull-out is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal lock mechanism combines multiple functions into a single integrated assembly: the resilient arm provides both the initial retention force and the triggering mechanism for locking; the terminal position assurance serves as both the terminal retention component and the housing engagement component; and the locked position provides both enhanced terminal security and automatic engagement with the housing. This merging reduces the need for separate components while achieving the desired functionality.
2Reliability
If a terminal lock mechanism with automatic locking is implemented, then accidental pull-out is prevented, but the ease of terminal installation may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal lock mechanism is designed to perform the locking action automatically upon terminal insertion, without requiring separate manual locking steps. The resilient arm and terminal position assurance work together to automatically transition from the pre-lock position to the locked position as the terminal is installed, making the system self-securing and eliminating the need for additional user actions to ensure terminal retention.
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 effectively secures electric terminals within the housing, ensuring they remain properly installed and resistant to pull-out forces, maintaining operational integrity throughout the vehicle's life.
Implementation Method 1
The typical terminal lock includes a resilient arm that engages the body of the electric terminal when the electric terminal is installed in the housing
Implementation Method 2
A terminal position assurance lock retains the terminal position assurance in a pre-lock position relative to the connector housing. The terminal position assurance lock also retains the terminal position assurance in a locked position relative to the connector housing
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly includes a housing that is adapted to hold an electric terminal in a terminal cavity. The connector assembly also includes a terminal position assurance that is movable relative to the housing. A terminal position assurance lock retains the terminal position assurance in a pre-lock position relative to the housing. The terminal position assurance lock also retains the terminal position assurance in a lock position relative to the housing.