Electrical Connector Sliding Mechanism for Reliable Coupling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional magnetic coupling between electrical connectors is unreliable and prone to decoupling, necessitating a more reliable coupling mechanism.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a sliding mechanism between electrical connector assemblies, featuring a sliding rail and guiding ribs, ensures secure mating between contacts by allowing the second mating face to move along a sliding slot and portion of the coupling device to be movable along a sliding opening.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If magnetic coupling is used between connectors, then coupling is achieved, but reliability deteriorates due to decoupling tendency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling reliabilityVSAvoidcoupling stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the magnetic coupling system with a sliding mechanical coupling system. The sliding rail and guiding rib structure provides deterministic mechanical engagement that eliminates the decoupling tendency inherent in magnetic coupling, thereby improving reliability while maintaining coupling stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a sliding mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment and secure positioning of the connector assembly. The sliding rail enables controlled movement along the longitudinal axis while the guiding rib maintains proper alignment, providing both flexibility and stability in the coupling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If sliding mechanism is implemented, then coupling reliability improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoupling reliabilityVSAvoidconnector structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the coupling device into distinct functional components: a sliding rail for longitudinal movement, guiding ribs for alignment, and a locking mechanism for securing the connection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall structure manageable and maintainable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10135178B2Electrical device assembly and electrical connector therewith
Publication Date: 2018.11.20 FOXCONN INTERCONNECT TECHNOLOGY LTD
  • US10135178B2 patent drawing
  • US10135178B2 patent drawing
  • US10135178B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An electrical device assembly includes a first connector assembly coupled with a second connector assembly via a sliding arrangement. The first connector assembly includes a first terminal module and a first coupling device. The first terminal module includes a first mating face and the first contacts exposed thereon. The first coupling device includes the sliding rail forming a sliding slot with an insertion opening including a sliding opening so as to expose the sliding slot to an exterior.