Fixing Connector Charging Module Anti-Misinsertion Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional bicycle fixing stands and seats lack a charging module, preventing bicycles from being charged when parked, as they do not have the necessary electrical connections to facilitate power transfer.

Innovation Solution

The integration of conductive terminals and a charging module in the fixing seat and stand, with anti-misinsertion mechanisms and elastic pieces, allows for secure engagement and electrical connection when the stand is assembled onto the seat, enabling charging of the bicycle.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional fixing seat and stand structures are used, then the structure remains simple and compatible with existing systems, but charging functionality is not available

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging functionalityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the charging module with the fixing seat structure by integrating conductive terminals into the seat body. The charging module includes a body with conductive terminals that directly engage with corresponding terminals on the fixing stand, merging charging functionality into the existing fixing mechanism without requiring separate charging infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing seat is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides the original bike securing function through the fixing stand engagement, and simultaneously provides charging function through the integrated charging module. The anti-misinsertion keys ensure proper alignment for both mechanical engagement and electrical connection, enabling universal compatibility with both conventional and equipped stands.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conductive terminals are integrated into the fixing seat, then charging capability is enabled, but the risk of misinsertion and connection errors increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging capabilityVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs anti-misinsertion keys with asymmetric geometry that must align with corresponding grooves or features on the fixing stand. This asymmetric design ensures that the charging module can only be inserted in the correct orientation, preventing misconnection of conductive terminals and ensuring reliable electrical contact between corresponding terminals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

3Adaptability or versatility

If the charging module is added to the fixing seat, then charging function is provided, but the manufacturing complexity and assembly steps increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging functionVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The charging module is designed as a separate, modular assembly that includes the body, conductive terminals, and anti-misinsertion keys as distinct components. This segmentation allows for independent manufacturing of the charging module, which can then be integrated into the fixing seat through standardized assembly processes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity compared to integrating charging features directly into the seat structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 the charging of bicycles by establishing an electrical connection between the fixing stand and seat, ensuring compatibility with both conventional and equipped stands, and can be applied to various objects needing a charging module, enhancing practicality and versatility.

Implementation Method 1

The at least one elastic piece is harnessed around the locating pin. The elastic piece is arranged between the body and the seat.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3340394B1Fixing connector with charging module
Publication Date: 2020.04.08 T CONN PRECISION CORP
  • EP3340394B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP3340394B1 patent drawingFigure 2A~2C
  • EP3340394B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A fixing connector with a charging module (120) which is an assembling structure of a fixing seat (100) and a fixing stand (200), wherein the fixing seat (100) comprises a seat (110) and a charging module (120); the seat (110) has a concave portion (112), the charging module (120) is arranged in the concave portion (112) and comprises a body (122), a plurality of first conductive terminals (124) and at least an elastic piece (126); the body (122) has a plane (121) and at least an anti-misinsertion key (123) arranged on the plane (121), the first conductive terminals (123) are arranged on the body (122) and may be protruded out from the plane (121), the elastic piece (126) is arranged between the body (122) and the seat (110); the fixing connector with the fixing seat (100) and the fixing stand (200) includes the said fixing seat (100) and a fixing stand (200) comprising a convex portion (210) to assemble the fixing stand (200) onto the fixing seat (100) by inserting the convex portion (210) in the concave portion (112). Thereby, the charging module (120) may perform charging when the fixing stand (200) is assembled onto the fixing seat (100).