Welding Lead Screw Lock Structure for Secure Connector Retention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Welding leads are prone to loose connections, posing safety hazards and theft risks, and existing securing mechanisms are inadequate.

Innovation Solution

A three-part screw lock apparatus comprising hollow members with ridges and screw threads that securely fasten welding lead connectors together, preventing disconnection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If welding lead connectors are designed to be easily connected and disconnected, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates as connections become loose or disengaged

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of connectionVSAvoidconnection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is divided into separate components: a first locking element that engages with a second locking element, allowing independent assembly and disassembly while maintaining secure connection when engaged

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking elements act as intermediary components between the welding lead connectors, providing a mechanical interface that secures the connection without requiring permanent attachment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If welding lead connectors are easily disconnected, then ease of operation is improved, but security deteriorates making them susceptible to theft

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of disconnectionVSAvoidtheft risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The locking elements provide localized security features at critical connection points, with ridges and engagement surfaces designed to prevent unauthorized removal while allowing authorized users to disconnect when needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If existing securing mechanisms are added to welding leads, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidsecuring mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking elements are integrated with the welding lead connector structure, combining the securing function with the existing connector design rather than adding separate, complex securing devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism is designed to be self-securing through mechanical engagement of the locking elements, eliminating the need for additional tools or complex assembly procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12350759B2Screw lock for securing welding lead connectors together
Publication Date: 2025.07.08 ALPHA OMEGA ENERGY SOLUTIONS LLC
  • US12350759B2 patent drawing
  • US12350759B2 patent drawing
  • US12350759B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A screw lock kit and apparatus including three hollow members for securing welding lead connectors together wherein a first hollow member is held against a second hollow member by engagement of a third hollow member with the second hollow member. A method for securing welding lead connectors together using the screw lock apparatus.