Connector Grounding Structure With Direct-Fit Space Saving

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connector grounding structures face challenges in achieving space savings due to the intervention of grounding components, limiting design flexibility and efficiency in electronic device and antenna connections.

Innovation Solution

A connector grounding structure that allows the first and second connector parts to connect without intervening grounding components, utilizing a protruding outer circumferential surface and inner circumferential surface with step surfaces, and an electrically conductive insertion portion, optionally with a washer or nut, to facilitate space-saving and adjustable connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If grounding components are used to connect first and second connector parts, then grounding reliability is improved, but device complexity and space consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrounding reliabilityVSAvoidconnector structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the grounding function with the connector structure itself. The outer circumferential surface portion of the first connector part and the inner circumferential surface portion of the second connector part directly form the grounding connection, eliminating the need for separate grounding components. This merging approach maintains grounding reliability while reducing device complexity and space consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector parts are designed to serve multiple functions: the outer and inner circumferential surface portions simultaneously provide both mechanical connection and grounding connection. This multi-functionality allows the same structural elements to fulfill both connection and grounding roles, reducing the overall number of components needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If grounding components are inserted between connector parts, then grounding path is established, but connection space and design flexibility are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrounding path establishmentVSAvoidconnector assembly volume

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The grounding path is established through the direct interface between the outer circumferential surface portion and inner circumferential surface portion of the connector parts. By merging the grounding function into the connector interface itself, the patent eliminates the need for additional grounding components that would increase the overall volume of the connector assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If traditional grounding components are used, then grounding function is achieved, but design freedom and adjustability are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegrounding functionVSAvoiddesign flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The grounding function is merged into the connector design, allowing the grounding characteristics to be adjusted by modifying the connector geometry itself. This provides greater design flexibility and adaptability, as the grounding can be optimized for different applications by changing the outer and inner circumferential surface dimensions rather than selecting from fixed grounding components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

This configuration enables space-saving designs for electronic devices and antennas by allowing direct connection of components without grounding components, enhancing design freedom and functionality, and can serve as a surge protector or ground plane.

Implementation Method 1

the grounding component has an insertion portion that is electrically conductive and into which the outer circumferential surface portion is insertable

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS20240063582A1Connector grounding structure

Publication Date: 2024.02.22 YOKOGAWA ELECTRIC CORP

AI summary

A connector grounding structure includes: a connector including a first connector part and a second connector part connectable to each other; and a grounding component. The first connector part has an outer circumferential surface portion that protrudes and a first step surface extending radially outward from a base end thereof. The second connector part has an inner circumferential surface portion connectable to the outer circumferential surface portion and a second step surface extending radially outward from a tip end thereof. The grounding component has an insertion portion that is electrically conductive and into which the outer circumferential surface portion is insertable. In a state where the outer circumferential surface portion is inserted into the insertion portion and connected to the inner circumferential surface portion without the grounding component intervening, the connector can hold the insertion portion between the first step surface and the second step surface.