Type-C Connector Retainer Structure for Vibration-Stable Cable Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Type-C USB connectors in automotive applications are prone to electrical failure due to cable displacement caused by vibration, necessitating a solution to secure the cable connection.
Innovation Solution
A type-C signal transmission connector with an inner housing, outer housing, and a retainer that includes inner and outer protrusions and locking mechanisms to securely fasten the cable, along with a connector position assurance (CPA) member to prevent separation and electrical failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional connector with male and female housings is used, then the connector structure is simple, but the cable may undergo displacement due to vibration resulting in electrical failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the inner housing containing the cable is positioned within the outer housing. The retainer component bridges both housings, creating a nested arrangement that secures the cable against vibration while maintaining structural integrity. This nested design prevents cable displacement without requiring overly complex external fastening mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer acts as an intermediary component that connects the inner housing and outer housing. It includes securing members that engage with both housings simultaneously, providing a stable anchor point for the cable. This intermediary structure distributes vibration forces and prevents direct stress on the cable connection, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing overall complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the connector is designed for fixed orientation, then manufacturing is simpler, but it cannot adapt to different installation spaces in automotive applications
Solution Approach 1:
The outer housing incorporates an asymmetric catching portion that can engage with the retainer at multiple orientations. The retainer's securing members are designed with asymmetric features that allow engagement in different angular positions. This asymmetric design enables the connector to be installed at various angles (e.g., 0°, 90°, 180°) while maintaining secure connection, providing adaptability without requiring completely different connector designs for each orientation.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a type-C signal transmission connector. The type-C signal transmission connector includes: an inner housing receiving a USB plug and a cable therein; an outer housing surrounding the inner housing; and a retainer mounted on the inner housing and the outer housing, wherein the retainer has an outer locking portion and a protrusion, the outer locking portion is caught by a catching portion formed on the outer housing, and the protrusion is coupled to an inner protrusion receiving portion formed on the inner housing.