Automotive Module Connector Impedance Sensing for Disconnection Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automotive lighting devices face challenges in reliably detecting accidental disconnections of card edge connectors without using spare pins for connector position assurance, as the ease of connection also leads to easy disconnection, and existing solutions are not feasible due to limited spare pins in the main connector.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system where connector position assurance terminals are connected to the ground via impedance, using resistors, allowing connection status to be determined through impedance measurement between the conductive part and ground, eliminating the need for dedicated pins in the main connector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If card edge connectors are used for ease of connection, then connection operation becomes simple, but accidental disconnection risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by measuring impedance between the conductive part and ground to detect connector connection status. The system continuously monitors the electrical connection state and provides feedback about whether connectors are properly connected, allowing the control unit to respond to disconnection events.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement system using impedance measurement as a mediator to detect connection status. Instead of directly monitoring mechanical connection, the system uses electrical impedance characteristics to indirectly detect whether connectors are properly connected, adding a layer of reliable detection without affecting the simple card edge connection mechanism.
2Reliability
If connector position assurance pins are used to detect disconnection, then connection status detection improves, but the main connector requires spare pins which are not available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by using the existing conductive part and ground connection infrastructure to provide connection status detection. Instead of adding dedicated detection pins to the connector, the system utilizes the already-present conductive elements and ground paths to perform impedance measurements, making the detection function serve itself using existing resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by making the existing conductive part and ground connections serve dual purposes: their primary function for power and signal transmission, and a secondary function for connection status detection through impedance measurement. This eliminates the need for dedicated detection pins while maintaining detection capability.
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 solution provides a reliable method to detect connector connection status without using spare pins, enabling effective quality control and assembly adjustments by determining the number and status of connected connectors, even when multiple modules are involved.
Implementation Method 1
the second connector position assurance terminal is connected to the ground connection of the first electronic circuit by the interposition of a first connection impedance and the first connection impedance comprises at least a first resistor
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides an electronic device (10) for an automotive vehicle. The electronic device (10) comprises a main connector (3), a first module (30), a first module connector (5) and an electrically conductive part (8). The first module (30) comprises a first electronic circuit (4) mounted with an electronic element (9) and a ground connection. The first module connector (5) comprises first terminals and a receptacle portion affixed on the first electronic circuit (4) comprising second terminals. One of the first terminals is a first connector position assurance terminal (27) and one of the second terminals is a second connector position assurance terminal (20), configured to provide information about the connection status with the first connector position assurance terminal (27). The second connector position assurance terminal (20) is connected to the ground connection of the first electronic circuit by the interposition of a first connection impedance and the second connector position assurance terminal (20) is connected to the electrically conductive part (8).