Integrated Electrified Strip Frame for Automatic Edge Contacting
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no standardized solution for electrically contacting electrified planar elements like smart glass, leading to complex and visually unappealing cable routing and assembly challenges, requiring expert installation and additional space for cable paths.
Innovation Solution
A molding assembly with a plastic frame element and integrated electrical conductor that automatically establishes an electrical connection with the peripheral contact of the planar element, allowing for flexible positioning and use across various manufacturers' products, with options for conductor materials like metal or conductive plastics, and configurable contact elements for efficient and cost-effective production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional cable routing methods are used to establish electrical connections, then electrical connection is achieved, but the assembly becomes visually unappealing and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical conductor with the frame element into a single integrated component. The conductor is embedded within the frame structure, eliminating the need for separate cable routing and connection steps. This merging of functions directly resolves the contradiction by simplifying installation while maintaining electrical connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame element serves multiple functions: it provides structural support and simultaneously houses the electrical conductor for power delivery. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cable management systems, reducing installation complexity while achieving both mechanical and electrical objectives.
2Reliability
If expert installation is required for electrical contacting, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical conductor is pre-integrated into the frame element during manufacturing, with contact points already positioned and configured. This preliminary action eliminates the need for expert installation steps during assembly, allowing standard workers to install the component while maintaining reliable electrical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame element with integrated conductor is designed to self-align and self-connect with the planar element during assembly. The conductor automatically establishes electrical contact when the frame is mounted, eliminating the need for expert manual connection procedures and reducing installation time.
3Ease of operation
If additional space is allocated for cable paths, then electrical connection is achieved, but the overall design flexibility and space utilization decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical conductor is merged with the frame element, utilizing the existing frame structure as the cable pathway. This eliminates the need for dedicated cable channels or additional space allocation, as the frame itself serves as both structural support and electrical conduit.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame element performs dual functions as both mechanical support structure and electrical power delivery system. By making the frame multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate cable management space, maximizing space utilization while maintaining electrical connectivity capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A molding assembly for establishing an electrical connection between an electrified planar element, which is formed with a peripheral electrical contact, and an electrical device includes a plastic frame element having an electrical conductor. The plastic frame element is adapted to be disposed along a peripheral portion of the electrified planar element that includes the peripheral contact. The plastic frame element extends between two ends. The electrical conductor extends between the two ends of the plastic frame element on a side facing the electrified planar element so that, during attachment of the plastic frame element to the peripheral portion, an electrical connection is automatically establishable between the electrical conductor and the peripheral contact.