Cage-Forming Connectors for Geophysical Data Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Geophysical data acquisition systems face challenges in mechanical robustness and ease of assembly, with existing designs being sensitive to stress and requiring numerous fasteners, which complicates troubleshooting and increases the risk of equipment failure during operation.
Innovation Solution
The electronic module design features a cage-forming connector configuration with a vertically positioned electronic board, reducing deformation under impact and simplifying assembly by minimizing the number of fasteners needed, while using flexible materials to absorb shocks and distribute forces effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If numerous fasteners are used to secure the electronic board and connectors, then mechanical robustness is improved, but device complexity and ease of assembly deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the electronic board directly into the connector assembly, eliminating the need for separate fasteners. The board is held in place by the connector structure itself, merging two previously separate components (board mounting and connector housing) into a unified assembly that reduces part count while maintaining mechanical strength
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic board is nested within the connector housing structure, where the connector serves as both the electrical interface and the mechanical support structure. This nesting eliminates the need for additional fastening elements while providing robust mechanical support through the integrated design
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional rigid mounting is used for the electronic board, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation and reliability under stress deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the mounting system from rigid fixed positioning to flexible constrained positioning. The connector structure provides precise positioning through its geometry while allowing controlled movement and deformation under stress, transforming the mounting system from brittle to resilient
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly combines rigid structural elements (for precise positioning) with flexible materials or compliant mechanisms (for stress absorption). This composite approach maintains manufacturing precision while enhancing reliability under various stress conditions through material-level design
3Ease of manufacture
If the electronic board is positioned horizontally, then ease of assembly is improved, but mechanical robustness under impact deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric positioning of the electronic board within the connector assembly, orienting it at an angle or in a non-traditional configuration that simultaneously facilitates assembly through gravity-assisted insertion while optimizing the distribution of impact forces along the connector's structural axes for enhanced robustness
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 configuration enhances mechanical robustness, reduces assembly time, and minimizes lateral acceleration during impacts, improving the overall reliability and ease of maintenance of the geophysical data acquisition system.
Implementation Method 1
using flexible materials to absorb shocks and distribute forces effectively
Implementation Method 2
distribute forces effectively
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 2d~2f
AI summary
A module (1) is provided for processing geophysical data coming from at least one geophysical sensor, said module comprising : - an electronic board (3) configured to enable the processing of geophysical data captured by said at least one geophysical sensor, - two cable sections (4) each comprising, at one extremity, a connector (15) designed to be connected to said electronic board. The module is characterized in that each connector (15) forms one half-cage, each connector (15) being arranged so as to cooperate with one other half-cage in such a way as to form a cage in which the electronic board (3) is placed.