Axisymmetric Power Connector With Magnetic Self-Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power connector systems for electronic devices are difficult to connect, have a high profile, and often fail to convey data signals effectively, making them inconvenient for modern, slim electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
The development of an axisymmetric power connector system with magnetic guidance, canted springs for tactile feedback and secure mating, and self-aligning features to facilitate easy connection while reducing the profile and enabling the conveyance of power and data signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a connector receptacle is placed in the rear surface of an electronic device, then power connection is achieved, but it becomes difficult for users to insert the connector
Solution Approach 1:
The connector receptacle is repositioned from the rear surface to the side surface of the electronic device, changing the spatial dimension of access. This allows users to easily reach and insert the connector from the side rather than requiring access to the rear, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining a simple device structure
2Reliability
If the connector receptacle depth is increased to ensure proper connection, then connection reliability is improved, but the device thickness increases
Solution Approach 1:
A spring mechanism is introduced into the connector receptacle assembly, allowing the contact elements to dynamically adjust their position. The spring provides sufficient contact pressure for reliable electrical connection while accommodating variations in insertion depth, ensuring consistent connection reliability without requiring a fixed deep receptacle structure that would increase device thickness
Solution Approach 2:
The design utilizes elastic deformation of spring elements to achieve the necessary contact force. By changing the physical state from rigid to elastic, the system can provide reliable electrical contact with a shallower receptacle depth, thereby maintaining connection reliability while reducing the overall device thickness
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions (power and data) are combined in one connector, then device versatility is improved, but connector complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector receptacle is designed with multiple contact elements arranged in a standardized axisymmetric pattern that can simultaneously handle power transmission and data signaling. By integrating multiple functions into a single universal connector interface, the system achieves versatility without proportionally increasing complexity, as all functions share the same physical pathway and connection mechanism
4Ease of operation
If magnets are added to guide connector insertion, then ease of connection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Magnetic fields are introduced to replace or supplement mechanical alignment features in the connector system. The magnets provide automatic guidance and alignment forces that assist users in properly inserting the connector, improving ease of operation. While this adds magnetic components, it eliminates or reduces the need for complex mechanical alignment features, resulting in a net reduction or maintenance of overall system complexity
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
The solution provides a user-friendly, low-profile power connector system that securely connects and conveys power and data signals, reducing arcing during mating and enhancing the usability of slim electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
Magnets can be used to help guide a connection between a connector insert and a connector receptacle
Implementation Method 2
Canted springs can be used to provide a tactile response to the insertion of the connector insert into the connector receptacle
Implementation Method 3
to help to secure the connector insert in place when mated with the connector insert
Data Source
AI summary
Power connectors that are easy to connect, have a low profile, and can convey one or more data signals. One example can provide a power connector that is easy to connect by providing an axisymmetric connector receptacle and connector insert. Magnets can be used to help guide a connection between a connector insert and a connector receptacle. Canted springs can be used to provide a tactile response to the insertion of the connector insert into the connector receptacle and to help to secure the connector insert in place when mated with the connector insert. Keying or self-aligning features can be included on either or both the connector insert and the connector receptacle to help guide mating.