Cylindrical Connector With Spring-Loaded Conductors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for interconnecting circuit board conductors often experience dislocation or inadequate mechanical connections due to mechanical or vibrational stress, and may not securely mount on circuit boards with spatial limitations.
Innovation Solution
A connector with a generally cylindrical dielectric body and axially extending conductors, featuring embedded and spring-loaded mating portions that secure into metallic through-holes, along with a fastener system that ensures proper seating and mechanical stability, including recessed or elevated central surfaces to form stops for secure alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If connector conductors are pressed into holes in circuit boards, then electrical connection is achieved, but conductors become dislocated or dislodged due to mechanical or vibrational stress
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs spring-loaded conductors that can dynamically adjust their position and apply continuous contact pressure against the circuit board holes. This dynamic mechanism allows the conductors to maintain stable electrical connection while accommodating mechanical stress and vibration without dislocation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector body is segmented into multiple independent conductor elements, each capable of individual movement and compression. This segmentation allows each conductor to independently respond to mechanical stress, preventing simultaneous dislocation of all conductors and improving overall connector reliability.
2Ease of manufacture
If connector uses simple pressing mechanism, then ease of assembly is improved, but mechanical connection is inadequate and does not properly secure connector to circuit board
Solution Approach 1:
The connector merges two functions into a single integrated mechanism: the spring-loaded conductors simultaneously provide electrical connection and mechanical anchoring. The fastener system combines threaded engagement with the circuit board while the compressed springs maintain contact pressure, creating a unified assembly that achieves both ease of installation and strong mechanical connection.
3Strength
If connector conductors are made rigid for structural stability, then mechanical strength is improved, but conductors cannot be properly seated in metallic through-holes under vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The connector changes the mechanical parameter of the conductors from rigid to spring-loaded, introducing controlled elasticity. This parameter change allows the conductors to maintain structural integrity while gaining the ability to dynamically adjust their seating position under vibration and mechanical stress, ensuring reliable electrical connection.
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 connector provides reliable mechanical and electrical interconnections, resisting dislodgement and vibration, while accommodating wider circuit board traces for enhanced power handling and current capacity.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the mating portions comprises a spring-loaded member for mating with the hole in the circuit board
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4
AI summary
A connector comprises a generally cylindrical dielectric body with a central bore in the dielectric body. The dielectric body has a first end and second end opposite the first end. Conductors extend axially through the cylindrical dielectric body and are spaced apart from each other in a generally circular or elliptical arrangement. Each conductor comprises an embedded portion in the dielectric body and mating portions extending from the first end and the second end.