Conductive Self-Mating Fastener for Sliding Electrical Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fasteners lack the ability to maintain an electrical connection while being slidable, which is essential for applications requiring both mechanical joining and electrical conductivity.
Innovation Solution
A self-mating fastener design featuring a backing with protruding rail elements, where the rail elements have a base portion and a cap portion with a wider cap width that overhangs the base, and an electrically conductive contact element is integrated to facilitate sliding while maintaining an electrical connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing fastener designs are used, then mechanical joining is achieved, but electrical connection cannot be maintained during sliding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical fastening and electrical connection functions into a single integrated fastener system. The conductive contact element is incorporated directly into the fastener structure, allowing both mechanical joining and electrical connectivity to be achieved simultaneously through the same component assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener is designed to perform multiple functions: mechanical fastening through the backing and rail element structure, and electrical conduction through the integrated conductive contact element. This multi-functional design allows a single component to replace what would traditionally require separate mechanical and electrical elements.
2Reliability
If conductive elements are added to fasteners, then electrical connection is enabled, but sliding capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive contact element is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to maintain electrical contact during sliding movements. The element can flex and adjust its position while maintaining continuous electrical connection, enabling the fastener to slide without compromising the integrity of the electrical pathway.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive contact element incorporates flexible conductive materials that can deform and adapt during sliding operations. This flexibility allows the conductive element to maintain contact and electrical continuity even as the fastener components move relative to each other.
3Reliability
If rail elements with overhanging cap portions are used, then mechanical engagement is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rail element is segmented into distinct functional portions: the base portion that provides structural support and attachment to the backing, and the cap portion that provides the overhanging engagement feature. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the manufacturing process through modular construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The design utilizes parameter variations in the rail element geometry, specifically the transition from a narrower base portion to a wider cap portion with overhang. By carefully controlling these geometric parameters, the design achieves improved mechanical engagement through the overhanging cap while managing manufacturing complexity through standardized dimensional relationships.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a self-mating fastener that includes a backing having a first side, and a rail element protruding perpendicularly from the first side of the backing. The rail element extends in a longitudinal direction along the backing. The rail element has a base portion attached to the first side of the backing and a cap portion distal from the backing. The cap portion has a cap width that is greater than a width of the base portion and the cap portion overhangs the base portion on opposing sides. The self-mating fastener includes an electrically conductive contact element proximate to the rail element.