Vehicle Electrical Connector with Threshold Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors for vehicles, such as those conforming to the ISO 11783 standard, do not effectively break away from plugs when disconnected, risking damage to the connector, plug, or wiring harness if the operator forgets to unplug the implement.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector with a dielectric body and pivotable retainer arms featuring a releasable locking mechanism, comprising latch members biased by springs, which releases when an outward force exceeding a threshold is applied, preventing damage during disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the electrical connector uses a fixed locking mechanism to maintain connection, then connection reliability is improved, but damage risk during disconnection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static fixed state to a dynamic breakable state. The retainer arms are held in a locked position by latch members biased by springs, but can pivot to an unlocked position when a threshold force is applied, allowing the connection to break away safely and prevent damage to the wiring harness.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism changes its mechanical parameters based on applied force. Under normal conditions, the spring bias maintains a strong locked connection. When disconnection force exceeds the threshold, the latch members release and the retainer arms pivot, changing the connection state from locked to unlocked and enabling safe breakaway.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the electrical connector uses a strong locking mechanism to prevent accidental disconnection, then connection stability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The latch members are pre-positioned to engage with the retainer arms, creating a locked state that prevents accidental disconnection. The spring bias maintains this locked position during normal operation, providing connection stability while preventing unintended release.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer arms are pre-configured in a locked position by the latch members and springs before any disconnection attempt. This preliminary locking action ensures stable connection during operation, and when disconnection is intended, the threshold force mechanism allows easy release of this pre-established lock.
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
Ensures safe and damage-free disconnection of the electrical connector from the implement by releasing the plug with a controlled force, avoiding damage to the connector, plug, or wiring harness.
Implementation Method 1
The releasable locking mechanism comprises two or more latch members that are biased by corresponding springs against the corresponding pivotable retainer or corresponding pivotable arms
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector comprises a dielectric body having a socket. A plurality of pivotable arms are hinged to the dielectric body. A releasable locking mechanism holds the pivotable arms in a locked position that releases with an outward pulling force exceeding a threshold force. The releasable locking mechanism comprises two or more latch members that are biased by corresponding springs against the corresponding pivotable arms. Each pivotable arm has a protrusion that divides a first region from a second region of the pivotable arm.