Connector Assembly With Non-Contact Terminal Current Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors lack efficient non-contact current detection mechanisms for terminals, particularly in connectors used for power supply devices, which hinder precise monitoring of current flow.
Innovation Solution
A connector design incorporating an insulating body with integrated current sensors mounted on an internal circuit board, allowing non-contact detection of current flow through terminals, and featuring a configuration that enables spaced and overlapping placement of sensors relative to the measurement targets for enhanced detection accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current sensors are mounted on the internal circuit board near the measurement target, then current detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The current sensor is integrated within the connector assembly, nested between the terminal and the circuit board. The sensor is disposed in spaced relation to the measurement target of the first terminal, with the internal circuit board fixed to the body and disposed in spaced relation to the measurement target in a third direction. This nesting approach enables current detection functionality without significantly increasing the overall device footprint or complexity.
2Reliability
If the current sensor is disposed in spaced relation to the measurement target, then non-contact detection is achieved, but detection accuracy may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an intermediary approach by positioning the current sensor in spaced relation to the measurement target of the first terminal. The sensor detects current through the magnetic field generated by the current flow without direct contact, and the internal circuit board provides the necessary electrical connection and signal processing pathway. This intermediary positioning achieves non-contact detection while maintaining reliability.
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
Enables precise non-contact current detection, improving monitoring capabilities and facilitating efficient power management in devices with reduced contact interference.
Implementation Method 1
The or each current sensor is disposed near the measurement target of the or a corresponding first terminal and configured to perform a non-contact detection of a current flowing through the or a corresponding first terminal
Data Source
AI summary
A connector including a body having an insulating property, at least one terminal, a circuit board fixed to the body, and at least one current sensor mounted on the circuit board. The or each terminal includes a distal portion, an externally connectable lead portion, and a body portion therebetween. The distal portion protrudes from the body to one side in the first direction or is exposed from the body. The body portion is at least partly held by the body, and includes a measurement target extending in first and second directions and being disposed inside the body. The circuit board is spaced from the measurement target or targets of the at least one terminal in a third direction. The or each current sensor is disposed near the or a corresponding measurement target and configured to perform a non-contact detection of a current flowing through the or a corresponding terminal.