Electrical Coupler Mating System Using Cam Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical coupler systems in information handling systems face challenges in generating the required high mating force in the correct direction, especially when space is limited and multiple couplings need to be mated simultaneously, which can result in damage to the couplers.
Innovation Solution
An electrical coupler mating system that includes a chassis with guide channels and cam members, along with a movable cam follower in an enclosure, which aligns and mates the electrical couplers by generating the necessary force through structural members outside the chassis housing, ensuring proper alignment and force direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional plugs are used for electrical coupling, then the structure is simple, but the mating force required is insufficient and may cause damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic elements including a cam mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear mating force, and a spring-loaded follower that provides controlled dynamic force application. The cam profile is specifically designed to generate high mating force (approximately 60 pounds) during the coupling operation, while the spring follower ensures smooth force application and prevents damage to the electrical contacts.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a rotational dimension to the coupling mechanism through the cam member that rotates to drive the follower. This rotational motion is converted into linear mating force, adding a dimensional aspect that enables high force generation without requiring complex multi-axial mechanisms. The cam follower translates rotational cam movement into precise linear engagement of the electrical couplers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrical couplings are provided, then functionality is improved, but the force required to mate them simultaneously increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the coupling mechanism into separate cam members, each associated with a specific electrical coupler pair. This segmentation allows each cam to independently manage the mating force for its designated coupler, distributing the total force requirement across multiple independent mechanisms rather than requiring one complex mechanism to handle all couplers simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam-follower mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides alignment guidance for the electrical couplers, generates high mating force, maintains consistent contact pressure during operation, and enables easy separation. This multi-functional design handles multiple couplers efficiently without requiring proportionally increased complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the electrical coupling is placed away from structural members, then accessibility is improved, but the volume available for force-generating mechanisms is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is nested within the chassis structure, utilizing the space between structural members rather than requiring additional external volume. The cam member rotates within a confined space, and the follower is positioned to engage the electrical coupler from within the available volume, effectively nesting the force-generating mechanism within the existing structural boundaries.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism exploits rotational motion in a dimension perpendicular to the mating direction, allowing high force generation within limited linear space. The rotational cam profile converts angular displacement into linear mating force, enabling compact design that fits within the constrained volume between chassis members while maintaining accessibility.
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
This solution allows for efficient and secure mating of electrical couplers with high mating force in the correct direction, minimizing damage and optimizing space within the chassis while ensuring easy access.
Implementation Method 1
a cam member that is located adjacent the first guide channel... and a cam follower that is moveably coupled to the enclosure, wherein with the cam follower located in the first guide channel
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical coupler mating system includes a chassis having a plurality of walls, wherein a chassis housing is defined between the plurality of walls. At least one of the plurality of walls defines a first guide channel and houses a cam member that is located adjacent the first guide channel. A first electrical coupler is located in the chassis housing. An enclosure includes a second electrical coupler and a cam follower that is moveably coupled to the enclosure, wherein with the cam follower located in the first guide channel, the second electrical coupler is aligned with the first electrical coupler and the movement of the cam follower mates the first electrical coupler and the second electrical coupler.