Connector Shorting Spring for Data Bus Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for data connections have large formats, increasing manufacturing complexity and cost, and disrupt data bus connections when disconnected.
Innovation Solution
A connector system with a housing, terminals, and a shorting spring that maintains data bus connection in an unmated state by using a shorting spring to connect terminals, and disconnects in a mated state through deflection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If connectors are used in existing data bus configurations, then data connections can be established, but the data bus connection is interrupted when connectors are disconnected
Solution Approach 1:
The shorting spring is pre-configured within the connector housing to automatically connect adjacent terminals when the connector is inserted. This preliminary arrangement ensures that the data bus remains continuous without requiring complex external bridging components or additional connection steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The shorting spring acts as an intermediary element between adjacent terminals, providing a mechanical and electrical bridge that maintains data bus continuity. This intermediary component simplifies the overall system by eliminating the need for complex external connection mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If large format connectors are used for various applications, then different data connection requirements can be met, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates a universal shorting spring mechanism that can be applied across different connector types and applications. This multi-functional approach allows the same basic connector housing and terminal structure to serve various data connection requirements without requiring application-specific manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into modular components: a standardized housing, interchangeable terminals, and a reusable shorting spring assembly. This segmentation allows manufacturers to produce standardized base units and customize only the necessary terminal configurations, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Reliability
If shorting spring connects terminals in unmated state, then data bus continuity is maintained, but connector structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The shorting spring is designed to automatically perform its function of connecting terminals upon insertion without requiring external actuation or complex control mechanisms. This self-service capability maintains data bus continuity while minimizing the overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shorting spring utilizes a flexible metallic element that can elastically deform to establish electrical contact between terminals. This flexible component achieves the desired electrical connection function with a simple, lightweight structure rather than requiring rigid, complex mechanical assemblies.
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
Facilitates flexible and cost-effective connections with maintained data bus continuity in both unmated and mated states, reducing structural changes and ensuring reliable communication.
Implementation Method 1
a shorting spring that is resiliently biased to connect the pair of terminals in a connected position
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical system includes a connector and a mating connector matable with the connector. The connector has a housing with terminals and a shorting spring disposed in the housing. The shorting spring abuts a pair of terminals in a first set of terminals and connects the pair of terminals in a connected position. The shorting spring is in the connected position when the connector and the mating connector are in an unmated state. The first set of terminals are connected with mating terminals of the mating connector in a mated state; the first set of terminals are connected to each other in the mated state by at least one of the shorting spring and a short connecting the mating terminals.