Rotary electronic connector
Through the innovative structural design of the rotating shaft and rotating sleeve, combined with cylindrical terminals and U-shaped spring terminals, the problems of transmission interruption and high cost of traditional rotary electronic connectors are solved, and stable high current transmission and automated production are realized.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511949393.5
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-22
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-23
AI Technical Summary
Traditional rotary electronic connectors suffer from momentary interruptions in transmission during rotation, making it difficult to achieve high current transmission. Furthermore, they are costly to produce and difficult to automate.
The structure adopts a rotating shaft and rotating sleeve design, and uses the cooperation of cylindrical terminals and U-shaped spring terminals to ensure the stability of electrical connection. The assembly process is simplified by injection molding the shaft and cylindrical terminals together.
It achieves stable electrical connections during rotation, meets the requirements for high current transmission, reduces production costs, and improves production efficiency and product reliability.
Smart Images

Figure CN121394992A_ABST
Abstract
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of connectors, in particular to a rotary electronic connector. BACKGROUND
[0002] In electronic devices, electronic connectors are used to achieve electrical connection between different components.
[0003] At present, the conventional rotary electronic connector is a design style in which two PCBs are stacked, and then a plurality of spring contacts are used to contact the middle of the two PCBs. The defect of this design style is that there is a transmission instantaneous interruption phenomenon during rotation, which cannot meet the large current transmission, and this design style needs to weld spring contacts on the PCB, and after welding, it can only be assembled with the shell by manual method, which is difficult to realize automatic production and has high production cost.
[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to improve the prior art.
[0005] The above information is given as background information only to assist with an understanding of the present application, and does not constitute admission or recognition that any of the above information constitutes prior art with respect to the present application. SUMMARY
[0006] The present application provides a rotary electronic connector to solve the problems in the prior art.
[0007] To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the present application provides the following technical solutions:
[0008] A rotary electronic connector, comprising a rotating shaft and a rotating sleeve; wherein,
[0009] The rotating shaft comprises a shaft body and N cylindrical terminals; N is a natural number greater than or equal to 2;
[0010] The N cylindrical terminals are sequentially sleeved from inside to outside and spaced apart from each other; the cylindrical terminals are embedded in the shaft body, and part of the cylindrical terminals is exposed outside the shaft body;
[0011] The rotating sleeve comprises a sleeve body and M U-shaped spring terminals; M=N, and one U-shaped spring terminal corresponds to one cylindrical terminal;
[0012] The sleeve body is provided with a plug-in hole for inserting the rotating shaft;
[0013] The U-shaped spring terminals are embedded in the sleeve body, and can be clamped on both sides of the exposed part of the corresponding cylindrical terminal when the rotating shaft is inserted into the plug-in hole, and are electrically connected with the exposed part of the corresponding cylindrical terminal.
[0014] Further, the cylindrical terminal comprises a first connecting part, an intermediate part and a second connecting part.
[0015] The first connecting part, the intermediate part and the second connecting part are connected in sequence and electrically conductive.
[0016] When the rotating shaft is inserted into the insertion hole, the first connecting part and the intermediate part are located in the insertion hole, and the second connecting part is located outside the insertion hole.
[0017] The diameter of the first connecting part is larger than the diameter of the intermediate part, so as to be exposed as an exposed part of the cylindrical terminal and electrically connected with the corresponding U-shaped spring terminal.
[0018] The second connecting part is also exposed to the shaft body, so as to be electrically connected with the outside.
[0019] Further, in the rotating electronic connector, when N is an odd number, in the N cylindrical terminals, the second connecting part of one of the cylindrical terminals is cylindrical or arc-shaped and stands alone on a plane.
[0020] The second connecting parts of the remaining cylindrical terminals are arc-shaped, and the remaining cylindrical terminals are divided into (N-1) / 2 groups, each group comprising two adjacent cylindrical terminals; the second connecting parts of the two cylindrical terminals in the same group stand on a corresponding plane but are arranged in a 180° opposite staggered manner.
[0021] Or, when N is an even number, the second connecting parts of the N cylindrical terminals are arc-shaped, and the N cylindrical terminals are divided into N / 2 groups, each group comprising two adjacent cylindrical terminals; the second connecting parts of the two cylindrical terminals in the same group stand on a corresponding plane but are arranged in a 180° opposite staggered manner.
[0022] Further, in the rotating electronic connector, when the rotating shaft is inserted into the insertion hole, both ends of the shaft body are located outside the insertion hole and are provided with an inner recess hole.
[0023] Further, in the rotating electronic connector, the shaft body and the N cylindrical terminals are combined into one body by injection molding.
[0024] Further, in the rotating electronic connector, the adjacent U-shaped spring terminals are arranged in a 180° opposite staggered manner.
[0025] Further, in the rotating electronic connector, the U-shaped spring terminal comprises an intermediate connecting piece and a first clamping piece and a second clamping piece connected to opposite sides of the intermediate connecting piece respectively, and the intermediate connecting piece, the first clamping piece and the second clamping piece are electrically conductive.
[0026] When the rotating shaft is inserted into the insertion hole, the first clamping piece and the second clamping piece are located in the insertion hole and clamped on both sides of the exposed part of the cylindrical terminal;
[0027] The intermediate connecting piece is exposed to the sleeve body for external electrical connection.
[0028] Further, in the rotating electronic connector, the part of the first clamping piece and the second clamping piece clamping contact with the corresponding cylindrical terminal is arc-shaped to adapt to the cylindrical terminal.
[0029] Further, in the rotating electronic connector, the part of the first clamping piece and the second clamping piece clamping contact with the corresponding cylindrical terminal is provided with a convex point structure protruding towards the cylindrical terminal.
[0030] Further, in the rotating electronic connector, the shaft body and the sleeve body are made of insulating material.
[0031] Compared with the prior art, the present application has the following beneficial effects:
[0032] The rotating electronic connector provided by the present application effectively solves the problems existing in the prior art by adopting the structural design of rotating shaft and rotating sleeve. Specifically, the cooperation of the cylindrical terminal on the rotating shaft and the U-shaped spring terminal in the rotating sleeve can ensure the stability of electrical connection during rotation, avoid the transmission instantaneous break phenomenon caused by rotation in the traditional design, meet the demand of large current transmission, and improve the reliability of the product. In addition, the structural design of the present application simplifies the assembly process, does not need to use PCB, and does not need to weld spring contacts, thereby facilitating automatic production, greatly reducing production cost, and improving production efficiency.
[0033] The present application has other characteristics and advantages, which will be apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description incorporated herein, or will be described in detail in the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description incorporated herein, which together serve to explain the specific principles of the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0034] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application or the prior art, the accompanying drawings needed to be used in the embodiments or the prior art description will be briefly introduced. Obviously, the accompanying drawings in the following description are only some embodiments of the present application, and those skilled in the art can obtain other accompanying drawings according to these accompanying drawings without creative labor.
[0035] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a rotary electronic connector (inserted) provided by an embodiment of the present application;
[0036] Figure 2 is a structural schematic diagram of a rotary electronic connector (uninserted) provided by an embodiment of the present application;
[0037] Figure 3 is an (exploded) structural schematic diagram of a rotary electronic connector provided by an embodiment of the present application;
[0038] Figure 4 is a (cross-sectional) structural schematic diagram of a rotary electronic connector provided by an embodiment of the present application;
[0039] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of a rotary shaft and a U-shaped spring terminal provided by an embodiment of the present application;
[0040] Figure 6 is a (cross-sectional) structural schematic diagram of a rotary shaft provided by an embodiment of the present application;
[0041] Figure 7 is a (cross-sectional) structural schematic diagram of a rotary sleeve provided by an embodiment of the present application;
[0042] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of a plurality of cylindrical terminals provided by an embodiment of the present application;
[0043] Figure 9 is a (cross-sectional) structural schematic diagram of a plurality of cylindrical terminals provided by an embodiment of the present application;
[0044] Figure 10 is a structural schematic diagram of two cylindrical terminals provided by an embodiment of the present application;
[0045] Figure 11 is a structural schematic diagram of a U-shaped spring terminal provided by an embodiment of the present application.
[0046] Reference signs:
[0047] rotary shaft 1, rotary sleeve 2, insertion hole 3, inner recess hole 4;
[0048] shaft body 11, cylindrical terminal 12;
[0049] sleeve body 21, U-shaped spring terminal 22;
[0050] first connecting portion 121, intermediate portion 122, second connecting portion 123;
[0051] intermediate connecting sheet 221, first clamping sheet 222, second clamping sheet 223, convex point structure 224. Detailed Implementation
[0052] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0053] Please refer to Figures 1-9 This invention provides a rotary electronic connector, comprising a rotating shaft 1 and a rotating sleeve 2; wherein,
[0054] The rotating shaft 1 includes a shaft body 11 and N cylindrical terminals 12. Here, N is set to a natural number greater than or equal to 2, providing flexibility to meet diverse electrical connection needs. These N cylindrical terminals 12 employ a unique nesting method, nested together sequentially from the inside out at intervals. This nesting structure not only makes full use of space but also lays the foundation for subsequent cooperation with other components. Simultaneously, each cylindrical terminal 12 is cleverly embedded in the shaft body 11, with a portion of its structure exposed. This small amount of exposed portion is carefully considered, ensuring effective contact between the cylindrical terminals 12 and external components while also protecting the unexposed portion of the terminals to some extent, preventing excessive interference from the external environment.
[0055] The rotating sleeve 2 also features a unique structural design, consisting of a sleeve body 21 and M U-shaped spring terminals 22. Of particular note is that the value of M is equal to N; this one-to-one correspondence is crucial for ensuring the accuracy and stability of the electrical connection. Each U-shaped spring terminal 22 corresponds to a cylindrical terminal 12. The sleeve body 21 has a specially designed insertion hole 3 for the rotating shaft 1. The size and shape of this insertion hole 3 are precisely designed and machined to ensure that the rotating shaft 1 can be inserted smoothly and stably without loosening or wobbling during rotation. The U-shaped spring terminals 22 are embedded in the sleeve body 21, their position and angle carefully adjusted. When the rotating shaft 1 is inserted into the insertion hole 3, the U-shaped spring terminals 22 precisely clamp onto both sides of the exposed portion of the corresponding cylindrical terminal 12. This clamping method not only provides a solid mechanical connection, but more importantly, it ensures a stable and reliable electrical connection between the exposed portion of the U-shaped spring terminal 22 and the corresponding cylindrical terminal 12, providing a smooth channel for the transmission of current or signals.
[0056] This invention, through its unique and ingenious structural design of a rotating shaft 1 and a rotating sleeve 2, successfully solves many thorny problems existing in the prior art. Specifically, the cylindrical terminal 12 on the rotating shaft 1 and the U-shaped spring terminal 22 inside the rotating sleeve 2 cooperate and work together to form a highly stable and reliable electrical connection mechanism. During rotation, this cooperation method can maintain the continuity of the electrical connection at all times, effectively avoiding the transmission interruption phenomenon caused by rotation operation in traditional designs. This improved stability is crucial for the normal operation of electronic equipment, especially for equipment with extremely high requirements for electrical transmission stability, such as high-power electrical appliances and high-speed data transmission equipment. It can ensure that they can still stably transmit large currents or high-speed signals under long-term, high-frequency rotation operations, thereby meeting the stringent requirements of high-current transmission and greatly improving the reliability and stability of the product.
[0057] Furthermore, this innovative structural design of the present invention brings about a significant revolution in manufacturing processes. Unlike traditional rotary electronic connector designs, the rotary electronic connector of the present invention does not require the use of a PCB (Printed Circuit Board), a change that fundamentally simplifies the product's structural composition. Simultaneously, it eliminates the need for cumbersome spring contact soldering processes, avoiding various quality problems that may arise from improper soldering, such as weak soldering or incomplete soldering. By eliminating these complex process steps, the rotary electronic connector of the present invention is more easily automated in production. Automated production not only significantly improves production efficiency and shortens the production cycle but also ensures the consistency and stability of product quality, reducing the impact of human factors on product quality. Moreover, automated production reduces reliance on manual labor, thereby effectively reducing production costs and enhancing the product's competitiveness in the market.
[0058] In summary, the rotary electronic connector of the present invention, with its unique structural design, superior performance, and significant manufacturing advantages, has broad application prospects and huge market potential in the field of electronic connectors, and is expected to make an important contribution to the development and progress of electronic devices.
[0059] Please refer to Figure 10 In one specific implementation of this embodiment, the cylindrical terminal 12 has a fine and reasonable structural division, which is composed of three key parts: the first connecting part 121, the middle part 122, and the second connecting part 123.
[0060] From the perspective of structural connection, the first connecting part 121, the middle part 122 and the second connecting part 123 are connected in sequence, and the three parts are electrically connected to each other, ensuring that current or signal can be transmitted smoothly and without obstruction inside the entire cylindrical terminal 12, laying a solid foundation for establishing a stable electrical connection with other components in the future.
[0061] When the rotating shaft 1 is inserted into the insertion hole 3, the various parts of the cylindrical terminal 12 exhibit a clearly defined spatial distribution. Specifically, the first connecting part 121 and the intermediate part 122 are located inside the insertion hole 3. This design allows the first connecting part 121 to be electrically connected to the U-shaped spring terminal 22 after the rotating shaft 1 is inserted. Meanwhile, the second connecting part 123 is located outside the insertion hole 3. This arrangement facilitates the connection of the second connecting part 123 to external devices or wiring, enabling the cylindrical terminal 12 to easily transmit internally transmitted current or signals to external systems.
[0062] Further analysis from a dimensional design perspective reveals that the diameter of the first connecting portion 121 is larger than the diameter of the intermediate portion 122. This difference in diameter serves a crucial function: the larger portion of the first connecting portion 121, acting as the exposed part of the cylindrical terminal 12, allows for a precise and stable electrical connection with the corresponding U-shaped spring terminal 22 after the rotating shaft 1 is inserted into the insertion hole 3. The U-shaped spring terminal 22, with its unique elastic structure, can tightly clamp both sides of the exposed portion of the first connecting portion 121, ensuring a continuous and reliable electrical connection during rotation and effectively preventing problems such as poor contact or signal interruption caused by rotation.
[0063] Furthermore, the second connecting portion 123 is also exposed on the shaft 11. This design is intended to provide a direct interface for the cylindrical terminal 12 to connect with external electrical systems. Through the second connecting portion 123, the cylindrical terminal 12 can be easily connected to external wires, circuit boards, or other electrical components to realize the input or output functions of current or signals, meet the electrical connection requirements of the entire electronic device, and ensure that the device can operate normally and achieve its intended functions.
[0064] In summary, the cylindrical terminal 12 in this embodiment, through the reasonable layout, size optimization and functional division of each part, achieves a stable and reliable electrical connection function in the rotary electronic connector, providing a strong guarantee for the high-performance operation of the entire electronic connector.
[0065] Please refer to this again. Figures 8-9In one embodiment of this invention, the design of the second connecting portion 123 of the cylindrical terminal 12 is carefully and cleverly differentiated based on the different values of N (N is the number of cylindrical terminals 12, and N is a natural number greater than or equal to 2).
[0066] When N is an odd number, we will take N=5 as an example for detailed explanation. Among these N cylindrical terminals 12, there is one special cylindrical terminal 12 (the first one from right to left in the figure), whose second connecting part 123 is designed to be cylindrical or arc-shaped (the figure shows a cylindrical shape), and this second connecting part 123 stands alone on a specific plane. The remaining cylindrical terminals 12 (the second to fifth ones from right to left in the figure) all have their second connecting parts 123 designed to be arc-shaped. Furthermore, these remaining cylindrical terminals 12 are grouped according to a specific rule, specifically into (N-1) / 2 groups (taking N=5 as an example, that is, divided into 2 groups. The second and third cylindrical terminals 12 form one group, and the fourth and fifth cylindrical terminals 12 form another group). For two adjacent cylindrical terminals 12 in the same group, their second connecting portions 123 are both erected on a corresponding plane and are arranged in a 180° relative offset configuration in space. This offset configuration not only increases structural stability but also has unique advantages in terms of electrical connection and space utilization.
[0067] When N is even, the second connecting portions 123 of all N cylindrical terminals 12 are designed to be arc-shaped. Furthermore, these N cylindrical terminals 12 are divided into N / 2 groups according to a rule, with each group containing two adjacent cylindrical terminals 12. Similar to the case when N is odd, the second connecting portions 123 of the two adjacent cylindrical terminals 12 within the same group are erected on a corresponding plane and are spatially offset by 180°. This unified yet flexible design ensures the orderly arrangement of the cylindrical terminals 12 within the overall structure, regardless of whether N is odd or even.
[0068] It is important to note that the core purpose of this ingenious design is to optimize and shorten the length of the rotating shaft 1. Through this clever grouping and layout design of the second connecting portion 123 of the cylindrical terminal 12, the space occupied by the rotating shaft 1 in the axial direction can be effectively reduced, thereby shortening the overall length of the connector product. In today's trend towards miniaturization and thinner designs in electronic devices, this design allows the product to be made smaller and more compact while maintaining performance, thus better meeting the market demand for miniaturized electronic connectors and enhancing the product's competitiveness and applicability in the market.
[0069] Please refer to this again. Figures 4-5In one embodiment of this invention, when the rotating shaft 1 is inserted into the insertion hole 3, both ends of the shaft 11 are outside the insertion hole 3 in terms of spatial position. Furthermore, recessed holes 4 are formed at both ends of the shaft 11.
[0070] It is important to emphasize that the recessed hole 4 plays a crucial role in the overall structural design of the connector product. Functionally, its primary function is to securely fix the rotating shaft 1. During actual use, the rotating shaft 1 must withstand various external forces and frequent rotational movements. Without effective fixing measures, the rotating shaft 1 is prone to wobbling, shifting, or even detachment, which would severely affect the normal operation of the connector and the stability of the electrical connection. The recessed hole 4 provides reliable structural support for fixing the rotating shaft 1. In conjunction with matching fixing components, the recessed hole 4 can precisely fix the rotating shaft 1 in the predetermined position, ensuring that the rotating shaft 1 remains stable during rotation, thereby guaranteeing the reliable operation of the entire connector product.
[0071] Furthermore, the design of the recessed hole 4 also reflects a profound consideration for product size optimization. From a structural perspective, the recessed hole 4 is equivalent to partially "hollowing out" both ends of the shaft 11. This approach cleverly reduces the material usage of the shaft 11 in the axial direction without affecting its overall strength and function, thereby further shortening the length of the rotating shaft 1. Since the rotating shaft 1 is a key component in the connector product, its shortening directly leads to a reduction in the overall length of the connector product. In today's trend towards miniaturization and thinner designs in electronic devices, this size optimization is particularly important. Through the design of the recessed hole 4, the connector product can achieve a smaller size while maintaining performance and quality, thus better adapting to the installation space requirements of various compact electronic devices.
[0072] In one embodiment of this invention, the shaft 11 and the N cylindrical terminals 12 are manufactured using an efficient and reliable process, namely injection molding, so as to achieve a tight and stable combination of the two into a whole.
[0073] Injection molding, a widely used molding technology in industrial production, offers numerous significant advantages. In the process of combining the shaft 11 with N cylindrical terminals 12, the cylindrical terminals 12 must first be precisely placed in specific positions within the injection mold. These cylindrical terminals 12, acting as inserts, play a crucial role in the accuracy of their position and orientation, significantly impacting the quality of the final product. After the mold closes, molten plastic material is injected into the mold cavity. Because the mold cavity is meticulously machined according to the design shape and dimensions of the shaft 11, the molten plastic rapidly fills the entire cavity under high pressure, tightly encasing the pre-placed cylindrical terminals 12.
[0074] As the plastic material gradually cools and solidifies in the mold, the shaft 11 and N cylindrical terminals 12 are firmly bonded together, forming an inseparable whole. This bonding method not only possesses extremely high strength and stability, capable of withstanding various external forces during the use of the connector product, such as rotation, tension, and compression, but also ensures excellent electrical connection performance between the cylindrical terminals 12 and the shaft 11. Because during the injection molding process, the plastic material evenly coats the surface of the cylindrical terminals 12, forming an insulating and sealed protective layer, effectively preventing external environmental factors (such as moisture, dust, and chemicals) from affecting the electrical connection, thereby ensuring the reliable operation of the connector product in various harsh environments.
[0075] Furthermore, injection molding offers advantages such as high production efficiency, low cost, and ease of automation. A single injection molding operation can simultaneously assemble the shaft 11 and multiple cylindrical terminals 12, significantly shortening the production cycle and improving efficiency. Moreover, the design and manufacture of injection molds are relatively simple, allowing for rapid adjustments and replacements to meet diverse product requirements, facilitating diversified and customized production. Simultaneously, the widespread application of automated injection molding equipment further reduces labor costs and enhances the stability and consistency of product quality.
[0076] In summary, using injection molding to integrate the shaft 11 and N cylindrical terminals 12 into one unit is a scientific, reasonable, and effective manufacturing method that can provide a strong guarantee for the high-quality and high-efficiency production of connector products.
[0077] Please refer to this again. Figure 5 In one embodiment of this invention, the layout design of the U-shaped spring terminals 22 is given special consideration. Specifically, adjacent U-shaped spring terminals 22 are arranged in a 180° relative offset configuration in space.
[0078] From a structural design perspective, each U-shaped spring terminal 22 possesses a unique elastic structure and electrical connection function. When arranged in this relatively staggered manner, a more uniform and stable mechanical distribution can be achieved within a limited space. During the operation of the connector product, the rotation of the rotating shaft causes relative movement and contact between the mating cylindrical terminal and the U-shaped spring terminal 22. At this time, the staggered arrangement of adjacent U-shaped spring terminals 22 can effectively disperse the stress generated during rotation, avoiding stress concentration in a localized area. This reduces deformation and damage to the U-shaped spring terminals 22 caused by long-term uneven stress, greatly improving their service life and reliability.
[0079] From the perspective of electrical connection performance, this staggered layout also has significant advantages. When multiple U-shaped spring terminals 22 are involved in electrical connection simultaneously, the 180° relative stagger allows for a more uniform distribution of current among the terminals. This avoids problems such as excessive current density and localized overheating caused by overly concentrated terminal arrangement, helps maintain stable electrical performance, reduces interference and loss during signal transmission, and ensures that the connector product can efficiently and accurately transmit current or signals.
[0080] Furthermore, this staggered layout also positively impacts the overall space utilization and structural compactness of the connector product. Within a limited product size, by rationally arranging the relative positions of adjacent U-shaped spring terminals 22, space can be fully utilized, avoiding unnecessary space waste. This allows the connector product to be further reduced in size while maintaining performance, meeting the design requirements of modern electronic devices for miniaturization and thinness, and enhancing the product's competitiveness and applicability in the market.
[0081] In summary, the design of adjacent U-shaped spring terminals 22 being staggered relative to each other by 180° in this embodiment is an optimized solution that takes into account mechanical performance, electrical performance and space utilization.
[0082] Please refer to Figure 11 In one embodiment of this invention, the U-shaped spring terminal 22 features a clever structural design. The U-shaped spring terminal 22 mainly consists of three key parts: an intermediate connecting piece 221, a first clamping piece 222, and a second clamping piece 223. The first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 are securely connected to opposite sides of the intermediate connecting piece 221, forming an integral structure. Furthermore, from an electrical performance perspective, the intermediate connecting piece 221, the first clamping piece 222, and the second clamping piece 223 achieve electrical conductivity, providing a fundamental guarantee for smooth transmission of current or signals.
[0083] From a structural and functional perspective, when the rotating shaft 1 is inserted into the insertion hole 3, each part of the U-shaped spring terminal 22 performs its specific function. At this time, the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 are located in the internal space of the insertion hole 3. They act like two precise clamps, tightly holding the two sides of the exposed part of the corresponding cylindrical terminal 12. This clamping method not only ensures a stable and reliable electrical connection between the U-shaped spring terminal 22 and the cylindrical terminal 12, preventing the connection from loosening or breaking due to vibration, shaking, or other factors during the use of the connector product, thus ensuring the stable transmission of electrical signals or current; moreover, the elastic design of the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 can also provide a certain clamping force. This clamping force can be precisely adjusted according to actual needs, ensuring good contact without causing excessive compression and damage to the cylindrical terminal 12.
[0084] Meanwhile, the intermediate connecting piece 221 has a unique positional design. Exposed outside the housing 21, this design allows for easy electrical connection to external circuits or equipment. In practical applications, the intermediate connecting piece 221 can be connected to external wires, circuit boards, and other components via soldering or other methods, thereby achieving electrical integration between the connector product and external systems. This design greatly simplifies the installation and use of the connector product, improving its compatibility and scalability.
[0085] In summary, the U-shaped spring terminal 22 in this embodiment, through the coordinated work of the intermediate connecting piece 221, the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223, achieves stable clamping and reliable electrical connection with the cylindrical terminal 12 when the rotating shaft 1 is inserted into the insertion hole 3, while also facilitating electrical connection with the outside.
[0086] Please refer to this again. Figure 5 and Figure 11 In one embodiment of this invention, the design of the U-shaped spring terminal 22 is extremely sophisticated, especially the contact portion between the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 and the corresponding cylindrical terminal 12.
[0087] Structurally, the areas where the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 contact the corresponding cylindrical terminal 12 are both designed to be arc-shaped. The cylindrical terminal 12 itself has a cylindrical appearance and its surface exhibits a continuous arc feature. Designing the contact portions of the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 as arc-shaped allows them to perfectly fit and conform to the surface of the cylindrical terminal 12.
[0088] From a mechanical perspective, this adaptive and fitting design offers numerous advantages. When the rotating shaft 1 is inserted into the insertion hole 3, causing the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 to clamp the exposed portion of the cylindrical terminal 12 on both sides, the arc-shaped contact surface can evenly distribute the clamping force. Compared to planar contact, the arc-shaped contact can avoid excessive stress concentration in local areas, thereby reducing the possibility of deformation or damage to the first clamping piece 222, the second clamping piece 223, or the cylindrical terminal 12 due to excessive stress. This uniform force distribution can greatly improve the stability and reliability of the connection structure, ensuring that the clamping connection remains firm during the long-term use of the connector product and will not loosen or fall off due to frequent rotation, vibration, or other external forces.
[0089] From an electrical performance perspective, the curved contact design also helps improve the quality of electrical connections. Good contact is one of the key factors in ensuring stable transmission of current or signals. The curved contact surface increases the contact area between the first clamping piece 222, the second clamping piece 223, and the cylindrical terminal 12, allowing current to flow more smoothly through the contact point and reducing contact resistance. Lower contact resistance effectively reduces energy loss and heat generation, thereby improving the electrical efficiency and reliability of the connector product.
[0090] In summary, the design of the portion of the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 that contacts the corresponding cylindrical terminal 12 in this embodiment is an optimized solution that takes into account both mechanical and electrical performance.
[0091] Please refer to this again. Figure 11 In one embodiment of this invention, the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 of the U-shaped spring terminal 22 are both provided with protrusion structures 224 that protrude toward the cylindrical terminal 12 in the portion where they clamp and contact the corresponding cylindrical terminal 12. This seemingly minor design actually contains profound engineering principles and has a significant performance improvement effect.
[0092] From a macroscopic mechanical perspective, when the rotating shaft 1 is inserted into the insertion hole 3, causing the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 to clamp the exposed portion of the cylindrical terminal 12 on both sides, the protrusion structure 224 will first contact the surface of the cylindrical terminal 12. Due to the protrusion structure 224's specific height and shape, it generates concentrated and increased contact pressure in a localized area. This increased contact pressure is further transmitted to the entire clamping contact surface, making the clamping between the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 and the cylindrical terminal 12 tighter and more stable. Compared to the case without the protrusion structure 224, this enhanced clamping force effectively prevents loosening or connection interruption due to external forces such as vibration, shaking, or rotation during the use of the connector product, thereby greatly improving the reliability and stability of the connection.
[0093] From a microscopic perspective of contact principles, there is a close relationship between contact pressure and contact area. In the microscopic world of a conductor's surface, the surface is not completely smooth and flat, but contains countless tiny protrusions and depressions. When the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 contact the cylindrical terminal 12, the actual contact area for effective current transmission is only the portion where these microscopic protrusions come into contact with each other. The increased contact pressure brought by the bump structure 224 allows the microscopic protrusions on the conductor surface to be flattened more thoroughly. As the microscopic protrusions are flattened, the number of originally separated microscopic contact points increases, and the actual contact area also increases significantly. According to the formula for calculating resistance, contact resistance is inversely proportional to the contact area; that is, the larger the contact area, the smaller the contact resistance. Therefore, by increasing the contact area, the bump structure 224 effectively reduces the contact resistance between the first clamping piece 222, the second clamping piece 223, and the cylindrical terminal 12.
[0094] In applications where connectors need to transmit high currents, reducing contact resistance is crucial. Lower contact resistance reduces energy loss and heat generation during current flow. Excessive contact resistance during high current transmission generates significant heat, wasting energy and potentially causing the connector to overheat, affecting its performance and lifespan, and even posing safety hazards. The bump structure 224, by reducing contact resistance, ensures that the connector maintains a lower temperature during high current transmission, allowing for stable and efficient operation and meeting the requirements of high current transmission.
[0095] In summary, the protrusion structure 224 provided in this embodiment at the part where the first clamping piece 222 and the second clamping piece 223 clamp and contact the corresponding cylindrical terminal 12 is a clever and effective design. By increasing the contact pressure, increasing the contact area, and reducing the contact resistance, the high performance and high reliability of the connector product in high current transmission scenarios can be guaranteed.
[0096] In one embodiment of this invention, both the shaft 11 and the sleeve 21 are made of insulating material.
[0097] From an electrical safety perspective, the application of insulating materials effectively prevents accidental current conduction. During the operation of connector products, the shaft 11 and sleeve 21, as important structural components, may come into close proximity or contact with conductors or circuit parts at different potentials. If the shaft 11 and sleeve 21 are not insulating materials but conductive materials, current may pass through them, forming short-circuit paths between circuits that should not be conducting, causing electrical faults, and even potentially leading to serious safety accidents such as equipment damage and fires. However, the shaft 11 and sleeve 21, made of insulating materials, act like a robust barrier, isolating different electrical circuits and ensuring that current can only be transmitted between conductors along a predetermined path, thereby guaranteeing the safe operation of the connector product and the entire electrical system.
[0098] From the perspective of electrical performance stability, insulating materials can reduce interference from external factors on electrical signals. In practical applications, connector products may be in various complex electromagnetic environments, and electromagnetic fields generated by other electrical equipment may exist nearby. If the shaft 11 and sleeve 21 are conductive, they may act like antennas, receiving these external electromagnetic signals and introducing them into the internal electrical circuit of the connector, leading to signal interference, distortion, and other problems, affecting the accuracy and stability of the electrical signals transmitted by the connector product. Insulating materials, on the other hand, have excellent electromagnetic shielding properties, effectively blocking interference from external electromagnetic fields, providing a relatively clean environment for the transmission of electrical signals within the connector, ensuring accurate and stable signal transmission, and improving the electrical performance quality of the connector product.
[0099] From the perspective of product reliability and durability, insulating materials typically possess good chemical stability and mechanical properties. In harsh environments, such as high temperatures, humidity, and corrosive gases, conductive materials may undergo oxidation and corrosion, leading to decreased conductivity and reduced mechanical strength, thus affecting the lifespan and reliability of the connector. Insulating materials, on the other hand, generally exhibit good resistance to chemical corrosion and high temperatures, maintaining the stability of their physical and chemical properties under various harsh conditions and are less susceptible to damage from external environmental factors. This allows the shaft 11 and sleeve 21, made of insulating materials, to provide long-term stable structural support and electrical protection for the connector, extending its lifespan and improving its reliability.
[0100] Furthermore, the selection of insulation materials also considers economic factors and technological feasibility. Currently, various types of insulation materials are available on the market, such as plastics, rubber, and ceramics. These materials are relatively reasonably priced and have good processing performance. Manufacturers can select suitable insulation materials based on the specific requirements and operating environment of the connector product, and manufacture the shaft 11 and sleeve 21 using common processing techniques such as injection molding and die casting, without significantly increasing the product's manufacturing cost or production difficulty.
[0101] In summary, in this embodiment, both the shaft 11 and the sleeve 21 are made of insulating materials, which is an optimized design that takes into account multiple factors such as electrical safety, stable performance, reliability and durability, and economic feasibility.
[0102] Although this invention frequently uses terms such as shaft and sleeve, the possibility of using other terms is not excluded. These terms are used merely for the convenience of describing and explaining the essence of this invention; interpreting them as any additional limitation would contradict the spirit of this invention.
[0103] Finally, it should be noted that although the above embodiments have been described in the description and drawings of this invention, this should not limit the scope of patent protection of this invention. Any technical solutions that are based on the essential concept of this invention, utilize the content described in the description and drawings of this invention to make equivalent structural or procedural substitutions or modifications, as well as the direct or indirect application of the technical solutions of the above embodiments to other related technical fields, are all included within the scope of patent protection of this invention.
Claims
1. A rotary electronic connector, characterized in that, Includes a rotating shaft (1) and a rotating sleeve (2); wherein, The rotating shaft (1) includes a shaft body (11) and N cylindrical terminals (12); N is a natural number greater than or equal to 2; N cylindrical terminals (12) are sequentially arranged from the inside out and spaced apart from each other; the cylindrical terminals (12) are embedded in the shaft (11), and a portion of the cylindrical terminals (12) is exposed outside the shaft (11). The rotating sleeve (2) includes a sleeve body (21) and M U-shaped spring terminals (22); M=N, and one U-shaped spring terminal (22) corresponds to one cylindrical terminal (12). The sleeve (21) has a plug hole (3) for inserting the rotating shaft (1); The U-shaped spring terminal (22) is embedded in the sleeve (21) and can be clamped on both sides of the exposed part of the corresponding cylindrical terminal (12) when the rotating shaft (1) is inserted into the insertion hole (3), and is electrically connected to the exposed part of the corresponding cylindrical terminal (12).
2. The rotary electronic connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cylindrical terminal (12) includes a first connecting part (121), a middle part (122), and a second connecting part (123); The first connecting part (121), the middle part (122), and the second connecting part (123) are connected in sequence and are electrically conductive; When the rotating shaft (1) is inserted into the insertion hole (3), the first connecting part (121) and the middle part (122) are located inside the insertion hole (3), and the second connecting part (123) is located outside the insertion hole (3); The diameter of the first connecting part (121) is larger than the diameter of the middle part (122) so as to be electrically connected to the corresponding U-shaped spring terminal (22) as the exposed part of the cylindrical terminal (12); The second connecting part (123) is also exposed on the shaft (11) for electrical connection to the outside.
3. The rotary electronic connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, When N is an odd number, among the N cylindrical terminals (12), the second connecting part (123) of one of the cylindrical terminals (12) is cylindrical or arc-shaped and stands alone on a plane; The second connecting portion (123) of the remaining cylindrical terminals (12) are all arc-shaped, and the remaining cylindrical terminals (12) are divided into (N-1) / 2 groups, each group including two adjacent cylindrical terminals (12); the second connecting portions (123) of the two cylindrical terminals (12) in the same group are both erected on a corresponding plane, but are arranged in a 180° relative offset. Alternatively, when N is an even number, the second connecting portions (123) of the N cylindrical terminals (12) are all arc-shaped, and the N cylindrical terminals (12) are divided into N / 2 groups, each group including two adjacent cylindrical terminals (12); the second connecting portions (123) of the two cylindrical terminals (12) in the same group are both erected on a corresponding plane, but are arranged in a 180° relative offset.
4. The rotary electronic connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the rotating shaft (1) is inserted into the insertion hole (3), both ends of the shaft body (11) are located outside the insertion hole (3) and both are provided with concave holes (4).
5. The rotary electronic connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shaft (11) and the N cylindrical terminals (12) are integrated by injection molding.
6. The rotary electronic connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The adjacent U-shaped spring terminals (22) are arranged in a 180° relative offset.
7. The rotary electronic connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The U-shaped spring terminal (22) includes an intermediate connecting piece (221) and a first clamping piece (222) and a second clamping piece (223) respectively connected to opposite sides of the intermediate connecting piece (221). The intermediate connecting piece (221), the first clamping piece (222) and the second clamping piece (223) are electrically connected. When the rotating shaft (1) is inserted into the insertion hole (3), the first clamping piece (222) and the second clamping piece (223) are located inside the insertion hole (3) and clamped on both sides of the exposed portion of the corresponding cylindrical terminal (12); The intermediate connecting piece (221) is exposed outside the sleeve (21) for electrical connection with the outside.
8. The rotary electronic connector according to claim 7, characterized in that, The portions of the first clamping piece (222) and the second clamping piece (223) that clamp and contact the corresponding cylindrical terminal (12) are both arc-shaped to fit and conform to the cylindrical terminal (12).
9. The rotary electronic connector according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first clamping piece (222) and the second clamping piece (223) are provided with protrusion structures (224) that protrude toward the cylindrical terminal (12) at the parts that clamp and contact the corresponding cylindrical terminal (12).
10. The rotary electronic connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the shaft (11) and the sleeve (21) are made of insulating material.