Connector Detection Circuit for Preventing Arcing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connectors face the challenge of accidental disconnection leading to arcing or shorting due to power present on their contacts, which can cause damage or safety hazards when they come into contact with grounded objects.
Innovation Solution
A connector system that includes a detection unit to verify a sustained disconnection state, triggering a protection unit to switch to a high resistance/low current path for the power line, thereby reducing or eliminating power on the power contact, preventing arcing or shorting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If power is continuously supplied to the connector contacts, then the connector can maintain operational readiness and provide immediate power transmission, but the risk of arcing or shorting increases if accidental disconnection occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The detection unit continuously monitors the communication line state before disconnection actually occurs. When a change in state is detected (indicating impending disconnection), the system proactively switches to the high resistance path before the connector fully disconnects, preventing arcing or shorting from occurring in the first place
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a high resistance path as an intermediary circuit element between the power source and the connector contacts. This intermediate path allows the system to maintain electrical continuity while significantly reducing current flow, thereby preventing harmful arcing or shorting effects during transition states
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~1D
Figure 1E~2A
AI summary
A system that detects electrical disconnection of one connector from another connector includes a detection circuitry and a protection circuitry. The detection circuitry detects that a plug connector has been electrically disconnected from a corresponding receptacle connector. In response to the detection, the detection circuitry sends a signal to the protection circuitry. In response to the signal, the protection circuitry lowers or terminates power being supplied to a host device via one of the contacts of the plug connector. This helps to prevent shocks/shorts that may be caused by accidental disconnection of the plug connector.