Coupling Connector Verifier Layout for RFID Connection State Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing coupling connectors face issues with compact design flexibility and reliable automated electronic acquisition of connection states, as well as interference from structural requirements for antenna and switching contacts, limiting modular design and causing false-negative signals.

Innovation Solution

A coupling connector design with a retainer and verifier that are movably mounted on the connector body, incorporating a switching circuit with a chip and antenna on the verifier or retainer, allowing for compact and flexible manufacturing while enabling automated electronic acquisition of connection states, and providing optical and haptic feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If the antenna and switching contacts are arranged on a label affixed to the connector body, then automated electronic acquisition of connection state is enabled, but the label requires a smooth surface and precise structural requirements, limiting design flexibility

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated electronic acquisition of connection stateVSAvoiddesign flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the connector body into distinct functional areas: the label with antenna and switching contacts is separated from the modular coupling sections. This segmentation allows the label to have its specific structural requirements while the coupling sections maintain design flexibility for different modular combinations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different surface quality requirements to different parts of the connector. The label area requires a smooth surface for proper adhesion and electrical contact, while other areas of the connector body can have varied geometries and surface characteristics suitable for different coupling configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Extent of automation

If the label with antenna and switching contacts is affixed to a larger middle section of the connector body, then automated electronic acquisition is achieved, but it takes up a relatively large amount of usable surface area

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated electronic acquisition of connection stateVSAvoidusable surface area

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent positions the label on the axial middle area of the connector body, utilizing the axial dimension rather than consuming excessive radial or circumferential space. This dimensional arrangement allows automated electronic acquisition functionality while preserving usable surface area for other purposes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Device complexity

If the retainer and verifier are radially inserted into the connector body, then both mounting and connection state indication functions are combined, but the switching circuit state cannot be stored electronically

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional integrationVSAvoidelectronic storage of connection state

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the mechanical functions of the retainer (mounting) and verifier (indication) with the electronic function of the RFID chip (state storage and transmission). The retainer and verifier are radially inserted into the connector body, while the RFID chip is applied to an exterior side, combining mechanical and electronic systems into a unified structure that provides both physical connection and electronic state acquisition.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The RFID chip acts as an intermediary between the mechanical switching circuit and external readers. It stores the state of the switching circuit and enables automated electronic acquisition of the connection state without requiring direct electronic connections, thus bridging the gap between mechanical movement and electronic data transmission.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 design ensures reliable and compact electronic acquisition of connection states with flexible manufacturing, reducing interference and enabling modular design, while providing visual and tactile verification of connection status.

Implementation Method 1

the transmitter comprises a chip, an antenna as well as a switch

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12607285B2Readable coupling connector and its connection method

Publication Date: 2026.04.21 TI AUTOMOTIVE FULDABRUCK

AI summary

A coupling connector has a retainer for locking a coupling plug in the connector body. The coupling connector comprises a verifier for indicating a connection state between the coupling connector and the coupling plug. The verifier is movably mounted on the connector body, and indicates the connection state via its position relative to the connector body. The coupling connector comprises a chip, an antenna as well as a switch. The switch has at least one switching contact as well as a closer, wherein the chip, the at least one switching contact and the closer are components of a switching circuit. The coupling connector is designed in such a way that the state of the switching circuit is changed during an insertion of the coupling plug into the connector body. The chip and/or the antenna and/or the at least one switching contact is/are arranged on the verifier and/or on the retainer.