Electromagnetic Connector Coupling for Easy Mating and Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connectors require varying amounts of force to mate and unmate, which can lead to unreliable connections, especially under conditions of vibration or temperature changes, and may result in intermittent electrical connections.
Innovation Solution
An electrical connector system that utilizes an electromagnet to assist in mating and unmating by applying a magnetic force between a first electrical connector with an electromagnet and a second electrical connector with a magnetic element, controlled by a control circuit that adjusts the magnetic force for coupling and uncoupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If mechanical friction or mechanical fit is used to maintain connector connection, then connection strength is improved, but reliability deteriorates under vibration or temperature changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical friction-based connection system with an electromagnetic magnetic connection system. The electromagnet generates a magnetic field that creates magnetic attraction force between the first connector and second connector, substituting the mechanical friction fit with electromagnetic force to maintain connection reliability under vibration and temperature changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the connection force from mechanical friction to electromagnetic magnetic attraction. By controlling the electromagnet's magnetic field strength through electrical current, the connection force parameters can be dynamically adjusted to maintain reliable connection under varying conditions.
2Reliability
If high mechanical force is applied to mate connectors, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical force application with an automated electromagnetic system. The electromagnet automatically generates the necessary connection force when electrical connection is detected, eliminating the need for users to apply high mechanical force and making the mating operation easier.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system performs self-mating assistance by automatically detecting when the connectors are in position and then activating the electromagnet to provide the necessary holding force, without requiring continuous user intervention or force application.
3Reliability
If strong magnetic force is used to hold connectors together, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates for unming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the magnetic force dynamic and controllable through the electromagnet. The magnetic field strength can be adjusted in real-time: strong enough to hold connectors together reliably during operation, but reducible to allow easy unmating when needed, providing adaptability between holding and releasing states.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnet can be activated periodically or on-demand based on operational requirements. The magnetic force is applied when connection is needed and deactivated when unmating is required, creating a periodic on/off action that balances holding strength with ease of separation.
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 system reduces the force required for connector mating and unmate, enhances connection reliability, and maintains secure coupling while allowing easy separation, minimizing the risk of damage or injury from forced disconnection.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnet on the first electrical connector adapted to produce a magnetic force... the magnetic force of the first connector acts on the magnetic element such that the magnetic force attracts the first electrical connector to the second electrical connector
Implementation Method 2
an electromagnet on the first electrical connector adapted to produce a magnetic force... an input device adapted to receive an input and to provide an output that causes an electrical current to be supplied to the electromagnet
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector system for assisting in coupling and unmating electrical connectors. The system generally includes an electromagnet to assist in mating and, alternatively, unmating or uncoupling a first electrical connector with a second electrical connector. The system may include a first electrical connector having a first plurality of contacts, an electromagnet on the first electrical connector adapted to produce a magnetic force, and an input device adapted to receive an input and to provide an output that causes an electrical current to be supplied to the electromagnet. When coupled, the first plurality of electrical contacts are conductively engaged with a second plurality of electrical contacts on the second electrical connector.