E-Cigarette Atomizer Connector With Ball-Lock Quick Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly and detachment of atomizers and power supplies in electronic cigarettes are inconvenient due to the need for multiple rotations, and existing solutions, such as deformable connectors with steel balls, do not adequately address this issue.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a first connector with a cylindrical plug and a second connector featuring a holder, movable steel balls, and a force exerting component, allowing for easy engagement and disengagement by using elastic forces to facilitate smooth insertion and secure mechanical and electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the atomizer and power supply are coupled threadedly, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the assembly and detachment require multiple rotations which is inconvenient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a dynamic engagement mechanism where the deformable body can change its shape during assembly. The steel ball deforms under insertion force to allow passage through the through-hole, then returns to its original shape to lock the atomizer in place, providing both ease of assembly and secure connection without requiring multiple rotations
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into distinct functional components: the deformable body (steel ball) that provides dynamic engagement, the through-hole that guides insertion, and the flange that provides positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, contributing to both ease of operation and connection reliability
2Ease of operation
If a deformable body with steel ball is used in the connector, then the assembly process is simplified, but the structural complexity of the connector increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector utilizes a deformable body made of elastic material that can flex and deform during assembly. This flexible component allows the steel ball to change shape temporarily to pass through the through-hole, then return to its original form to secure the connection, simplifying the assembly process while adding minimal structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable body performs the engagement function automatically through its own elastic deformation properties. When the atomizer is inserted, the steel ball deforms under the insertion force and then self-restores to lock the connection, without requiring additional actuating mechanisms or complex control systems
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
This solution simplifies the assembly and disassembly process of electronic cigarettes by enabling easy engagement of the atomizer and power supply through elastic forces, ensuring reliable mechanical and electrical connections while maintaining structural stability.
Implementation Method 1
The force exerting component is configured for exerting an elastic force on the movable component
Data Source
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AI summary
An exemplary electronic cigarette includes an atomizer and a power supply. The atomizer includes one of a first connector and a second connector, and the power supply includes the other of a first connector and a second connector. The first connector includes a cylindrical plug. The plug has a recessed portion in a side surface thereof. The second connector includes a holder, a movable component, and a force exerting component. The holder is configured for receiving the plug. The movable component is movable arranged on a sidewall of the holder. The force exerting component is configured for exerting an elastic force on the movable component. The movable component is configured for ejecting from the sidewall to engage in the recessed portion when the movable component ejecting from the sidewall, and for retracting relative to the sidewall when the plug is inserted into the holder.