Connector Status Indication via Light Transmissive Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors in junction and distribution boxes often have light sources that are obstructed by peripheral connectors and cables, making it difficult for operators to determine the status of individual connectors, and the use of light pipes adds complexity and cost to manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly with a housing, a light source, and a cover element featuring light transmissive areas that allow light to be directed outward from the mating face, ensuring visibility of connector status without physical obstructions, and optionally using insert molded films to enhance light transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If light sources are placed inside the housing or mounted next to connectors, then the connector status can be indicated, but the light may be obstructed by peripheral connectors and cables, preventing operators from seeing the status
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the light emission from a point source (0D) to a linear light guide structure (1D) that extends along the connector assembly. This dimensional change allows the light to travel along the length of the connector, making it visible from multiple angles and positions, thereby overcoming the obstruction problem caused by peripheral connectors and cables.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a light guide as an intermediary element between the light source and the external environment. The light guide acts as a mediator that transports the light from the internal light source to the exterior, allowing the status indication to be visible despite the presence of obstructing peripheral connectors and cables.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If light pipes are used to transmit light from the housing to the outer surface, then the light visibility is improved, but the complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The light guide structure serves multiple functions: it acts as both a structural component of the connector assembly and a light transmission medium. By integrating the light guide into the existing connector housing or cover, the patent eliminates the need for separate, complex light pipe components, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining improved light visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the light guide function with the existing connector housing or cover structure. Instead of adding separate light pipe components, the light guide is integrated into the housing or cover itself, simplifying the overall device structure and reducing manufacturing steps while achieving the desired light transmission.
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 ensures that the status of electrical connectors is clearly visible from various angles, even when obstructed by peripheral connectors and cables, without the need for complex light pipes, thereby improving operational visibility and reducing manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
The light source generates light directed toward the mating face of the housing to indicate a status of the connector
Implementation Method 2
The cover element includes a light transmissive area that is positioned to receive the light generated by the light source and transmit the light outward from the mating face
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly includes a housing, a light source located within the housing, and a cover element covering at least a portion of a mating face of the housing. The housing includes a connector that is arranged to electrically mate with a peripheral connector proximate to the mating face of the housing. The light source generates light directed toward the mating face of the housing to indicate a status of the connector. The cover element includes a light transmissive area that is positioned to receive the light generated by the light source and transmit the light outward from the mating face in order to indicate the status of the connector.