Cantilever Electrode Connector for Easy Grip and Durable Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrode connectors for capturing physiological signals from animals or humans require improved ease of installation and removal without applying significant force, while maintaining a durable and robust electrical connection.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a cantilevered arm that moves between a rest and flexed position, allowing for easy gripping and release of an electrode with a single-handed pinch, utilizing a stationary arm with electrical contact to secure the connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a snap-on connector design is used for electrode connection, then the electrical connection is durable and robust, but the installation and removal require significant force and are not easy to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a flexible cantilevered arm that can dynamically change its position between a first position (for easy insertion) and a second position (for secure gripping). This dynamic structure allows the connector to adapt its mechanical properties during different operational phases, enabling easy installation while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into distinct functional segments: a flexible cantilevered arm for engagement, a stationary arm with electrical contact for signal transmission, and a body structure. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the cantilevered arm provides mechanical engagement while the stationary arm ensures electrical connectivity.
2Ease of operation
If a simple connector structure is used for easy operation, then the installation and removal are easy, but the electrical connection may not be sufficiently durable and robust
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cantilevered arm provides dynamic engagement capability, allowing the connector to be easily inserted by flexing the arm out of the way, then automatically securing to the electrode post when released. This dynamic mechanism achieves both ease of operation and secure connection without requiring complex structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design allows for self-service operation where the flexible cantilevered arm automatically engages and secures to the electrode post upon insertion, and automatically releases upon removal. The spring-like properties of the cantilevered arm provide self-latching functionality without requiring additional locking mechanisms.
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
Enables a simple, robust, and durable electrical connection that can be readily installed and removed from an electrode post, ensuring reliable signal capture and processing.
Implementation Method 1
A cantilevered first arm of the body has an end and is coupled to the body for cantilevering toward the internal space. The cantilevered first arm has a rest position and a flexed position.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly for coupling with one or more electrodes includes one or more cables with wires. A plug is electrically coupled with an end or ends of the cables. An electrode connector structure is electrically coupled with the cables and includes a body that is configured for forming an internal space. A cantilevered first arm has an end that cantilevers toward the internal space. The cantilevered first arm has a rest position and a flexed position. A stationary second arm and arm end extend into the internal space opposite the first arm. At least one of the ends of the cantilevered first arm and stationary second arm include an electrical contact. In the rest position, the end of the cantilevered first arm is positioned opposite the stationary second arm a first distance. In the flexed position, the cantilevered arm, moves away from the stationary second arm to separate the ends to a greater distance to receive the electrode and returns to the rest position to grip the electrode.