Connector Element Layout With Variable Insulation for Signal Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector systems for sensors lack the ability to perform complex signal processing, such as analog-to-digital conversion, close to the sensor head, leading to signal distortion and the need for separate replacement of sensors and sensor heads, while ensuring correct pairing and minimizing creeping currents.
Innovation Solution
A connector element with varying insulation radii for contact members, made of high-insulation-resistant plastic, arranged in a compact design to reduce signal interference and allow for easy replacement of sensors, featuring a plug-and-socket system with coding structures for correct orientation and EMC shielding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the insulation distance between contact members is increased to reduce creeping currents, then signal distortion is minimized, but the connector size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different insulation radii to different contact members based on their specific functional requirements. Contact members carrying sensitive analog signals are assigned larger insulation radii to minimize creeping currents and signal distortion, while other contact members use standard insulation radii. This localized differentiation optimizes signal quality for critical connections without unnecessarily increasing the overall connector dimensions.
2Ease of repair
If the connector design allows easy sensor replacement, then maintenance efficiency is improved, but the risk of incorrect contact member pairing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric coding structures on the contact member carrier that create a unique geometric pattern. This asymmetric design provides mechanical guidance that ensures contact members can only be inserted in the correct orientation, preventing wrong pairing while allowing users to easily replace sensors themselves without specialized tools or complex procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex signal processing functions are moved to the sensor head, then signal processing capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the connector system into modular components: a contact member carrier containing multiple contact members with different insulation radii, and a counterpart connector element. This segmentation allows the sensor head to be equipped with specific contact members for analog signals while keeping the overall system modular and manageable, enabling advanced signal processing without proportionally increasing complexity.
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 reduces signal interference, enables efficient signal processing close to the sensor, allows for independent replacement of sensors and sensor heads, and ensures correct pairing, while maintaining a compact and reliable design suitable for various environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
made of high-insulation-resistant plastic
Data Source
AI summary
A connector element for a connector system includes at least three contact members for making electric contact and a contact member carrier. The contact member carrier has a front face. The contact members extend through the contact member carrier from the front face to a back face on a back side of the contact member carrier and project from the back side. Each contact member has an insulation radius being, when measured in a view onto the front face, a minimum clearance between the outer boundaries of said contact member and the closest neighboring contact member. The insulation radius of at least one of the contact members exceeds the insulation radius of another one of the contact members.