Electromagnetic Connector With Sensor-Controlled Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors that rely on friction or magnetic force for electronic devices during outdoor activities often experience unstable connections, leading to a high risk of disconnection and device loss when in motion.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a socket with a magnetic member and energized coil assembly that generates an electromagnetic force to securely engage and disengage a plug, using a sensor to control the energization of coils for stable and secure connection and disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If friction or magnetic force is used to connect the plug and socket, then the connector is simple in structure, but the connection stability deteriorates during motion
Solution Approach 1:
The connector employs a dynamic locking mechanism where the locking ball can move between locked and unlocked positions. During motion, the spring automatically adjusts the locking ball's position to maintain engagement, transforming a static friction/magnetic connection into a dynamic mechanical lock that adapts to motion conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the insufficient friction or magnetic force mechanism with a mechanical locking system involving a locking ball, spring, and groove. This mechanical substitution provides positive engagement that maintains connection stability during outdoor activities while keeping the overall structure relatively simple.
2Ease of operation
If a simple friction or magnetic connector is used, then the ease of operation is high, but the risk of accidental disconnection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector features self-locking functionality where the spring automatically pushes the locking ball into the groove to secure the connection during insertion. The system also provides automatic unlocking when the plug is pulled, eliminating the need for manual locking/unlocking operations while preventing accidental disconnection.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking ball and groove structure creates preliminary anti-action by providing a mechanical barrier that prevents the plug from being accidentally pulled out. The spring maintains constant force on the locking ball to ensure continuous engagement, counteracting any forces that might cause disconnection during outdoor activities.
3Reliability
If electromagnetic force is added to secure the connection, then the connection stability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electromagnetic holding force with the mechanical locking system. The magnet in the socket works together with the locking ball mechanism, where the electromagnetic force provides initial holding and the mechanical lock provides secure engagement. This combination achieves high connection stability without requiring a completely complex system, as the two mechanisms support each other.
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 a stable and secure connection that prevents accidental disconnection of the plug from the socket, ensuring a reliable connection during motion, while allowing easy removal when needed.
Implementation Method 1
at least one energized coil assembly (18), and a sensor (30)... the energized coil assembly (18) can be energized to generate an electromagnetic force so as to cause the magnetic member (16) to engage the plug (20)
Implementation Method 2
The magnetic member (16) and the energized coil assembly (18) are disposed in the at least one recess portion (14)... cause the magnetic member (16) to engage the plug (20)
Data Source
AI summary
A connector proofed against accidental disengagement is disclosed. The connector includes a socket. The socket has a base, at least one magnetic member with a pawl, at least one energized coil assembly, and a sensor. The base has a hole. The magnetic member and the energized coil assembly are disposed in the base with the sensor. When a plug is inserted into the hole of the base of the socket, the sensor can recognize the plug being inserted into the hole of the base and the energized coil assembly can be energized to cause the pawl of the magnetic member to engage and lock the plug in place. The connection remains until the energized coil assembly causes the pawl to disengage, allowing separation of the plug from the socket.