Multi-Channel Connector Insert With Retractable Data Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-channel connectors, such as the LKA 32/25 type, are limited to carrying audio-speaker signals and lack compatibility with additional signal types like data control signals, necessitating a solution that maintains compatibility with existing connectors while enabling the carriage of both audio and data signals.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel connector design featuring main contacts for audio signals and secondary retractable contacts for data control signals, arranged on concentric circles, allowing compatibility with standard connectors by retracting when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If secondary contacts are added to carry data control signals, then the functionality and signal carrying capacity are improved, but the device complexity and incompatibility with existing connectors worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary contacts are designed to be retractable rather than fixed, allowing them to dynamically adjust their position. When engaged, they extend to provide additional data control signal paths; when retracted, they disappear from the engagement surface, maintaining compatibility with standard connectors. This dynamic configuration resolves the contradiction by making the additional functionality conditional rather than permanent.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is segmented into two independent contact systems: main contacts for audio-speaker signals and secondary retractable contacts for data control signals. This segmentation allows each system to operate independently, with the secondary contacts only becoming active when specifically engaged, thus adding functionality without permanently complicating the basic connector structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If secondary retractable contacts are added for data control signals, then additional functionalities are enabled, but the ease of operation and compatibility with standard connectors worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable nature of the secondary contacts creates a dynamic system that automatically adapts to the type of connector being engaged. When a standard connector is used, the secondary contacts remain retracted and do not interfere. When a compatible connector with corresponding recesses is used, the secondary contacts extend to enable additional functionalities. This eliminates the need for users to manually configure or worry about compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system performs self-configuration based on the engagement type. The secondary contacts automatically extend or retract based on whether corresponding recesses are present in the engaged connector, eliminating the need for user intervention or manual switching. The system serves itself by detecting the engagement condition and adjusting its configuration accordingly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connector is designed to support both audio-speaker and data control signals, then the versatility is improved, but the manufacturing complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into producing the base connector structure with main contacts (standard, simple manufacturing) and separately producing the retractable secondary contacts (complex manufacturing). These can be assembled in a modular fashion, allowing the complex retractable contact mechanism to be manufactured and tested independently before integration, thereby managing overall manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary retractable contacts are nested within the connector housing, concealed when retracted and only visible when extended. This nesting approach allows the complex secondary contact mechanism to be integrated within the existing connector form factor without significantly increasing external dimensions or requiring completely new manufacturing processes for the entire assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
An insert for a multi-channel connector comprising a plurality of main contacts for carrying signals, said plurality of main contacts being arranged according to a main arrangement on a first face of said insert. The insert comprises a plurality of secondary contacts for carrying further signals, in particular for carrying data control signals. Said plurality of secondary contacts are arranged according to a secondary arrangement at empty spaces of said first face of said insert. Moreover, said secondary contacts are configured in such a way as to be operational and allow the carrying of said further signals when said insert for said multi-channel connector is coupled to a further reciprocal insert for a reciprocal multi-channel connector at respective first faces, said further reciprocal insert having the same main arrangement of a reciprocal plurality of main contacts and the same secondary arrangement of a reciprocal plurality of secondary contacts.