Electronic Cassette Connector Positioning for Grid Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electronic cassette systems face limitations in using a variety of external grids due to the positioning of the female connector, which can be covered by the side panel of the grid, making it difficult to connect the male connector, and requires troublesome processing to avoid this issue, potentially weakening the grid's strength.
Innovation Solution
The electronic cassette system redesigns the housing to position the female connector closer to the rear surface, allowing the male connector to extend parallel to the front and rear surfaces, with a thinner terminal section and a gap between the main and terminal sections, enabling the use of a wider range of external grids without requiring processing, and incorporates an inclined surface for the female connector to facilitate connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the female connector is positioned at the center of the housing thickness, then the connector positioning is standardized, but the side panel of the external grid covers the female connector, preventing male connector connection
Solution Approach 1:
The female connector is positioned asymmetrically within the housing thickness, specifically at an offset position rather than at the center. This asymmetric positioning ensures that the connector remains exposed when the external grid is attached, allowing the male connector to connect properly while maintaining standardized manufacturing processes
2Ease of manufacture
If the side panel is extended to cover the entire side surface, then the grid positioning is improved, but the female connector is covered and cannot be accessed
Solution Approach 1:
The side panel is designed with local quality differentiation, extending to cover most of the side surface for proper grid positioning, but stopping short of the housing end face to leave the female connector exposed. This localized adjustment maintains positioning benefits while ensuring connector accessibility and grid compatibility
3Adaptability or versatility
If the female connector is repositioned closer to the rear surface, then external grid compatibility is improved, but the connector structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The male connector is designed with an L-shaped configuration, extending from the side surface in a direction parallel to the front and rear surfaces. This dimensional change allows the connector to reach the offset female connector position without increasing structural complexity, as the L-shape naturally accommodates the repositioned connector while maintaining a simple overall design
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 allows for the use of a greater variety of external grids without the need for troublesome processing, ensuring compatibility and maintaining the strength of the grid, while also simplifying the connection process and enhancing usability.
Implementation Method 1
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Data Source
AI summary
A center position of a female connector is located near to a rear surface of a housing compared with a center position of the housing in a thickness direction of the housing of an electronic cassette. An inclined surface, which is inclined relative to a side surface and the rear surface of the housing, is formed between the side surface and the rear surface. The female connector is formed on the inclined surface. Therefore, it is possible to attach an outer grid provided with a longer side panel to the housing, in comparison with the case where the center position of the female connector is made coincident with the center position of the housing in the thickness direction of the housing, without requiring any processing.