Connector Shield Termination via Intermediary Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical cable shielding systems in aircraft and similar applications are ineffective when the mechanical connection between the shield termination platform and other components becomes loose, leading to exposure to electromagnetic interference.
Innovation Solution
A wire harness with a primary conductor and a shield conductor, where the shield conductor is electrically connected to a shield termination device through a connector that maintains continuity via a wire or mechanical band, ensuring electromagnetic shielding even if the mechanical connection loosens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical connection is used between shield termination platform and components, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the connection may become loose over time reducing shielding effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into separate components: a connector body, a shield termination platform, and individual electrical contacts. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the mechanical connection provides structural simplicity while the electrical contact maintains reliable electrical connection for shielding continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
An electrical contact serves as an intermediary element between the shield termination platform and the connector body. This intermediary ensures that even if the mechanical connection loosens, the electrical contact maintains the electrical pathway for shielding, decoupling the mechanical and electrical connection functions.
2Reliability
If electrical contacts are positioned in openings of connector body, then electrical connection is maintained, but the connector body complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical contact merges multiple functions: it provides electrical connection for the primary conductor, maintains shielding continuity, and serves as a mechanical interface element. By combining these functions into a single component, the overall connector body complexity is reduced despite the presence of multiple openings.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical contact is designed as a multi-functional element that simultaneously handles signal transmission and shielding continuity. This universal design allows the same component to serve multiple purposes, reducing the need for additional specialized parts and simplifying the overall connector structure.
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 solution maintains electromagnetic shielding by providing a continuous electrical path from the shield termination device, preventing interference even when the mechanical connection is compromised.
Implementation Method 1
a shield conductor configured to electromagnetically shield the primary conductor
Implementation Method 2
a second electrical contact of the first plurality of electrical contacts positioned in a second opening of the connector body and is electrically connected to the shield termination device
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a wire harness including a primary conductor and a shield conductor configured to electromagnetically shield the primary conductor. The apparatus further includes a first connector coupled to the wire harness. The first connector includes a shield termination device electrically connected to the shield conductor. The first connector further includes a connector body defining a plurality of openings to receive a first plurality of electrical contacts. The first plurality of electrical contacts is configured to mate with a second plurality of electrical contacts of a second connector. A first electrical contact of the first plurality of electrical contacts is positioned in a first opening of the connector body and is electrically connected to the primary conductor. A second electrical contact of the first plurality of electrical contacts is positioned in a second opening of the connector body and is electrically connected to the shield termination device.