[eppeltert]

In general, this design principle is known as poka yoke:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poka-yoke

[Schwolop]

In terms of physical connectors, I've always referred to this as polarisation. The connector is polarised so that it can only be inserted in one orientation, generally by use of a slot and key.

[hilop]

And the problem it solves is Murphy's Law: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murphy%27s_law

[pmarreck]

This is a great design concept to know the name of! Thanks!