Connector bridge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current infinite switches in cooking appliances face challenges during repair or replacement due to complex wiring configurations, which lead to miswiring and increased time for reconnection, making the process difficult and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A connector bridge system that reorients and simplifies electrical connections by providing a single mounting location and keyed connections, reducing the vertical space required and minimizing the risk of miswiring through a radial wiring connector, allowing wires to exit transverse or parallel to the central axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple discrete wiring connections are used for the infinite switch, then electrical connections can be established, but the wiring process becomes complex and time-consuming with increased risk of miswiring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete wiring connections into a single integrated connector assembly. The connector bridge integrates multiple terminal receivers and wiring connectors into one unified structure that attaches to the packaged circuit element, allowing all electrical connections to be made through a single attachment operation rather than multiple separate wiring steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector bridge serves as an intermediary component between the packaged circuit element and the device wiring system. It provides a standardized interface that simplifies the connection process by mediating between the multiple terminals on the circuit element and the external wiring, reducing the complexity of direct multi-point connections.
2Ease of operation
If wires exit the infinite switch perpendicular to the mounting surface, then electrical connections are established, but the wiring height makes it difficult to replace the infinite switch in the space provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the dimensional orientation of wire exits by providing wiring connectors that allow wires to exit in directions transverse to or parallel with the central axis, rather than perpendicular to the mounting surface. This dimensional reorientation enables the connector assembly to fit within the constrained space behind the appliance panel while maintaining all necessary electrical connections.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple block connectors are used to connect to all terminals, then electrical connections are established, but more space is required and the replacement process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate block connectors into a single integrated connector bridge assembly. This unified structure consolidates what would otherwise require multiple discrete connector components, reducing the total space occupied while simplifying the replacement process to a single attachment operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector bridge provides multi-functional capability by integrating multiple terminal receivers and wiring connectors into a single universal interface. This single component performs the function of multiple separate connectors, allowing all electrical connections to be established through one standardized attachment point.
4Ease of repair
If the infinite switch is accessed for repair by removal of the back panel, then the infinite switch becomes accessible, but the process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection interface by providing a standardized connector bridge that can be attached or detached as a single unit. This segmentation allows the connector assembly to be independently handled and replaced, potentially enabling faster service procedures where the connector can be accessed or replaced without requiring full disassembly of the appliance back panel.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector bridge for a packaged circuit element is provided. The connector bridge includes a connector bridge body defining a mounting axis. It includes a first plurality of terminal receivers at a first location and a second plurality of terminal receivers at a second location. The pluralities of terminal receivers are arranged closer to a side of the connector bridge body than to the mounting axis to receive and electrically connect with terminals of the packaged circuit element in the first wiring orientation. The connector bridge includes a wiring connector at a third location. The wiring connector extends radially outwards of an outermost perimeter defined by radially outermost sides of the packaged circuit element. The first, second and third locations are at different locations. The wiring connector is electrically connected with the at least first and the second terminal receivers and defines a second wiring orientation.