Electromechanical Connector Locking to Prevent Disconnection Under Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors in aircraft EWIS systems face challenges in ensuring reliable and secure interconnections under varying current and voltage conditions, particularly due to increased electrical equipment proportion and power demands, which can lead to unsafe disconnections and potential arc formation.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector with an electromechanical locking system using a polarized ferromagnetic locking element that moves between locking and non-locking positions based on current intensity, ensuring secure connection and preventing disconnection under load, complemented by mechanical retention systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical locking system is used to prevent disconnection, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces a purely mechanical locking system with an electromechanical system that uses electromagnetic actuation. The locking element is moved between locked and unlocked positions using electromagnetic forces generated by a coil, rather than purely mechanical actuators. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining reliability through controlled electromagnetic engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameter from purely mechanical force to electromagnetic force. By controlling the current through the coil, the system can dynamically change the state of the locking element. This parameter change allows for simplified mechanical structures while maintaining reliable locking through electromagnetic actuation and control.
2Power
If current intensity increases to improve electrical performance, then power transmission is improved, but arc formation and wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a locking system that engages before high current flows through the connector. The electromagnetic locking mechanism is activated during connection establishment or when current is low, securing the contacts in place before full power transmission begins. This preliminary locking action prevents contact movement and arc formation during high current operation, reducing wear and harmful effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potentially harmful effect of high current into a useful function by using electromagnetic force generated by the current itself to enhance locking. The electromagnetic field produced during power transmission can be utilized to maintain or strengthen the locked position, turning the source of potential harm (high current causing arcs) into a mechanism that reinforces connection stability and prevents wear.
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
The connector provides enhanced safety and reliability by preventing disconnection under load, reducing wear and arc formation, and optimizing contact resistance, thereby enhancing protection and conductivity.
Implementation Method 1
when an electric current of an intensity greater than a predetermined threshold passes through the connection plug and the socket of the electrical connector, the induced magnetic field causes the magnetized locking element to move between the non-locking position and the locking position
Implementation Method 2
the locking element comprises a polarized ferromagnetic material
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an electrical connector (100) having at least one male or female plug (110) configured to be connected to a socket (122), the electrical connector (100) comprising at least one locking system (130, 150) having a polarized ferromagnetic locking element (130) and a return element (150), configured to have a first form corresponding to a locking configuration of the electrical connector (100), at least partially complementary to a form of the plug (110) or the socket (122) when a current intensity through the plug (110) is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, and a second form corresponding to a non-locking configuration of the electrical connector (100) when the current intensity through the plug (110) is less than the predetermined value,so as to provide an electromechanical locking of the connection plug (110) in the socket (122) of the connector (100). This improves and enhances the security of electrical connections between different pieces of equipment on board an aircraft.