Asymmetric Connector Contact Layout for Compact Signal Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector systems for signal transmission face challenges in ensuring reliable, dirt-proof, and interference-resistant connections, particularly in harsh environments, with a need for user-friendly disconnection and reconnection without risking incorrect contact alignment and while minimizing size.
Innovation Solution
A connector element with four non-equidistantly arranged contact members on a circumferentially extending contact surface, made of high-insulation-resistant plastic, featuring a bayonet lock mechanism and O-ring sealing, and designed to accommodate a printed circuit board with specific alignment structures to prevent incorrect wiring and enhance mechanical stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If contact members are arranged equidistantly on the connector element, then the connector design is simple and symmetric, but the insulation distance between contact members of the same group is reduced, increasing the risk of creeping currents and interference
Solution Approach 1:
The contact members are arranged non-equidistantly on the circumferentially extending contact surface, with different insulation distances between adjacent contact members. Specifically, contact members of the same group have larger insulation distances between them compared to contact members of different groups, reducing creeping currents and interference while maintaining a relatively simple connector structure.
2Volume of moving object
If the connector element is made compact to minimize size, then the overall dimensions are reduced, but the insulation distance between contact members may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector element features locally optimized insulation distances between contact members. The insulation radius is defined as the minimum clearance between the outer boundaries of a contact member and the closest neighboring contact member. By varying the insulation distance locally between different contact member pairs (larger for same-group contacts, smaller for different-group contacts), the design achieves compact overall size while maintaining sufficient insulation where critical.
3Ease of operation
If the connector interface is made releasable for user-friendly connection and disconnection, then ease of operation is improved, but the risk of incorrect contact alignment and dirt contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector element incorporates asymmetric coding structures including a coding key with a specific profile and a corresponding coding slot with matching geometry. This asymmetric design allows the connector to be inserted only in the correct orientation, preventing incorrect contact alignment. The coding key and slot work together to guide proper engagement while maintaining a simple plug-and-socket interface for ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector element for a connector system includes four contact members for making electric contact on a front side of the connector element, and a contact member carrier. The contact members extend in an axial direction on a circumferentially extending contact surface of the contact member carrier. The contact members have a free contact surface which is accessible on the circumferentially extending contact surface of the contact member carrier. Each contact member has an insulation radius, when measured in a view onto the front face, is a minimum clearance between outer boundaries of said contact member and a closest neighboring contact member. The contact members are grouped into two groups of contact members where a closest neighboring contact member to a respective contact member belongs to the other group of contact members than the respective contact member.