Connector Structure With Locating Pin For Power Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Connecting multiple connectors on facing surfaces of objects can be difficult, especially when positions cannot be visually checked, leading to unreliable connections.

Innovation Solution

A connector structure featuring a first and second connector unit, where the second connector unit includes a locating pin and an insertion hole, allowing the connectors to be aligned and connected automatically when the pin is inserted into the hole, eliminating the need for manual alignment of multiple connector sections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple connectors are disposed on facing surfaces of objects, then connection capability is improved, but alignment difficulty increases making reliable connection hard to achieve

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection capabilityVSAvoidalignment difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A locating pin is introduced as an intermediary component to facilitate alignment between the panel and battery unit. The locating pin extends from the panel side and inserts into a corresponding hole on the battery unit side, automatically positioning the battery unit at the correct location and orientation, thereby enabling reliable connection of multiple connectors without manual alignment effort

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If manual alignment of multiple connectors is required, then connection reliability may be compromised, but connection time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidconnection time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The locating pin and hole structure is pre-configured on the panel and battery unit respectively, performing the alignment action in advance before the actual connector engagement. When the battery unit is installed, the locating pin automatically guides it into the correct position, ensuring all connectors align properly without requiring manual adjustment during the connection process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11183794B2Connector structure and power storage device
Publication Date: 2021.11.23 PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
  • US11183794B2 patent drawing
  • US11183794B2 patent drawing
  • US11183794B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A connector structure has a first connector unit including a first connector and a first terminal, and a second connector unit including a second connector and a second terminal. The second connector unit has a locating pin and an insertion hole into which the locating pin is inserted. In the connector structure, the first connector and the first terminal, and the second connector and the second terminal are brought into a connectible state when the locating pin is inserted into the insertion hole.