Connector Connection Failure Detection Using Non-Collinear Passive Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex electronic systems with sophisticated printed circuit board designs often experience connection failures due to loose or improperly connected connectors, which existing technologies fail to detect effectively without altering the active component design.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a passive component connector with a detecting unit that checks at least three points not in the same line and a connection status determining unit to assess the connection status, allowing for connection failure reporting without altering the active component design, using mechanical or optical detection methods such as elastic sheets or light sources and sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If connection detection is implemented using existing technologies, then connection status can be monitored, but the active component design must be altered which reduces flexibility and configurability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional detection approach by placing the detecting unit in the passive component instead of the active component. This allows connection status detection without modifying the active component design, thereby maintaining design flexibility while achieving reliable connection monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detecting unit within the passive component that mediates between the connector connection status and the control unit. This intermediary structure enables indirect detection of connection status without direct modification of the active component, preserving its adaptability.
2Measurement precision
If multiple detection points are used to accurately determine connection status, then detection precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses at least three non-collinear detection points, which is more than the minimum two points needed for basic position detection. This excessive action provides redundant information that improves connection status determination accuracy while the points are arranged in a triangular pattern that optimizes detection coverage without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from linear or single-point detection to two-dimensional non-collinear point arrangement. By detecting positions of at least three points that do not lie on the same line, the system creates a triangular detection pattern that provides spatial distribution information, improving the ability to determine both presence and proper seating of the connector.
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 flexible and non-intrusive detection of connection failures in electronic systems, identifying whether connectors are tightly connected, connected but not tightly, or not connected, enhancing system reliability and configurability without affecting the active components.
Implementation Method 1
using mechanical or optical detection methods such as elastic sheets or light sources and sensors
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic system, connection failure reporting system and related methods. An electronic system may include a passive component of a connector; a detecting unit configured to detect presence of an active component of the connector in at least three points not in the same line on the passive component of the connector; and a connection status determining unit configured to determine a connection status of said connector based upon detecting results of the at least three points on the passive component of the connector. A connection problem of the connector can be identified, including identification of the type of connection failure.