Capacitive Plug Connector Isolation for Shield Current Interference

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Solution Overview

Problem

In train traffic and automotive engineering, high shield currents occur due to converters or poor galvanic connections in state-of-the-art plug connections, leading to potential damage and interference with data transmissions.

Innovation Solution

A capacitive plug connection system is introduced, featuring a first and second connector with holding frames and base modules, where filter bridges electrically connect or isolate the frame parts, utilizing dielectric materials and galvanic insulating covers to manage currents and prevent interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional plug connections are used with galvanic contacts, then power and data transmission can be established, but high shield currents occur that can damage contacts and interfere with data transmissions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidshield current damage and interference
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a capacitive coupling mechanism as an intermediary between the shield connections of male and female connectors. This capacitor-based intermediary allows the shield to be connected while blocking high-frequency shield currents through its impedance characteristics, thus preventing damage and interference while maintaining the necessary electrical connection for power and data transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the electrical parameters of the shield connection by transitioning from a direct galvanic contact to a capacitive coupling. This parameter change modifies the frequency-dependent behavior of the shield connection, allowing low-frequency power transmission while blocking high-frequency interference currents through the capacitor's reactance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Device complexity

If shield currents are allowed to flow in traditional connectors, then simple galvanic connection is maintained, but magnetic fields are generated that interfere with data transmissions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnector structure simplicityVSAvoiddata transmission interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

A capacitive coupling element is introduced as a mediator in the shield connection path. This intermediary component blocks the formation of high-current loops that generate magnetic fields, while still maintaining the shield's protective function and allowing data transmission without interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical galvanic contact system with a capacitive coupling system. This substitution eliminates the direct current path that creates magnetic fields, while maintaining the electrical connection functionality through field-based capacitive coupling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 capacitive plug connection effectively reduces parasitic currents and prevents damage to contacts and connections, while minimizing magnetic interference that can disrupt data transmissions.

Implementation Method 1

The first frame part and the second frame part are electrically isolated from each other by a dielectric isolation element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDielectric isolation: Dielectric

Implementation Method 2

capacitive plug connection, comprising a first connector and a second connector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapacitive connection: Capacitance

Data Source

PatentUS20250141149A1Capacitive plug connection
Publication Date: 2025.05.01 HARTING INT INNOVATION AG
  • US20250141149A1 patent drawing
  • US20250141149A1 patent drawing
  • US20250141149A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A capacitive plug connection has a first connector and a second connector. The first connector includes a first holding frame and a first base module, wherein the first holding frame has a first frame part and a second frame part. The first frame part and the second frame part are electrically isolated from each other by a dielectric isolation element, where a filter bridge connects the first frame part with the second frame part. Alternative or supplementary the second holding frame includes a first frame part and a second frame part, wherein the first frame part and the second frame part are electrically isolated from each other, wherein a filter bridge electrically connects the first frame part with the second frame part or the filter bridge is attached within the first frame part and is configured to connect an input port of the first connector with the second frame part.