Plug-and-Socket Connector Alignment for Reliable Device Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a suitable connector and method to couple components of a large volume tissue removal device, specifically for attaching medical device components effectively.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system comprising a first plug detachably coupled to a first housing and a first socket detachably coupled to a second housing, allowing the system to move between configurations where the housings are either engaged or not engaged, facilitating the coupling of the plug and socket for secure electrical and mechanical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a detachable plug and socket coupling system is used, then ease of assembly and disassembly is improved, but connection reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Alignment features (protrusions and recesses) are provided on the housing members before the coupling action occurs. These pre-positioning features guide the plug and socket into proper alignment during the approach phase, ensuring that the coupling surfaces engage correctly and reliably from the start of the connection process.
Solution Approach 2:
Alignment features act as intermediary elements between the plug and socket housing members. These features mediate the coupling process by first establishing geometric alignment through protrusions and recesses, then facilitating the subsequent engagement of coupling surfaces, thereby ensuring both ease of operation and connection reliability.
2Manufacturing precision
If alignment features are added to the coupling system, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment features (protrusions and recesses) are integrated directly into the housing members themselves rather than being separate components. This merging of alignment functionality into the existing structural elements achieves precise alignment without adding discrete parts, thereby maintaining manufacturing precision while avoiding increased device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the coupling system allows movable configurations, then adaptability is improved, but stability of connection worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is designed to be movable between engaged and disengaged configurations, allowing dynamic adaptation to different operational states. The housing members can move relative to each other to establish or break connections as needed, providing the required configurability while maintaining connection stability when engaged through the coupling surfaces and alignment features.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling system and related methods are disclosed. The system has a first plug detachably coupled to a first housing, and a first socket detachably coupled to a second housing. The first socket is configured to receive the first plug. The system is movable between a first configuration wherein the first and second housings are not engaged and a second configuration wherein the first and second housings are engaged and the first plug and the first socket are coupled together.