Flexible Electrode Connection Assembly With Pre-Tensioned Clamping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connection arrangements for flexible or elastically deformable sensors and electrodes face challenges in maintaining a stable and permanent electrical contact due to material property differences, especially during deformation and relative movement, leading to potential loss of contact.

Innovation Solution

A connection arrangement with a pre-tensioned clamping element that encloses the sensor/electrode section, using a connecting device with a housing and clamping elements to ensure stable pressure against the contact electrode, and includes features like conductive adhesives and heat shrink tubes for secure electrical contact.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If metal wire connections are used to connect flexible or elastically deformable sensors to electrical conductors, then electrical connection is established, but permanent electrical contact cannot be guaranteed due to material property differences and deformation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical contact stabilityVSAvoidmaterial compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a connecting device as an intermediary component between the flexible sensor and the electrical conductor. This connecting device includes a clamping element that can be pre-tensioned to maintain permanent electrical contact, bridging the material property differences between the elastic sensor and the rigid conductor while ensuring reliable connection during deformation and washing cycles

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies pre-tension to the clamping element in the connecting device, changing the mechanical parameter of tension force. This pre-tension ensures that the electrical inner conductor maintains stable pressure against the contact electrode even during sensor deformation or relative movement, preventing loss of electrical contact

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the connecting device uses pre-tension in the contact area, then stable electrical contact is ensured during deformation, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical contact stabilityVSAvoidconnecting device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting device is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides mechanical connection, applies pre-tension to ensure electrical contact stability, and accommodates the flexible sensor's deformation. By integrating these functions into a single compact device, the patent reduces overall system complexity while maintaining reliable electrical contact

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

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

Ensures reliable electrical contact during deformation, absorbs tensile forces, and provides shielding against electromagnetic interference, maintaining a stable connection even under stress and deformation.

Implementation Method 1

even during deformation or recovery of the elastic sensor/electrode section

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

an electrically conductive adhesive bond between the stripped end section and the contact strip

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectConduction (electrical): Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 3

heat shrink tube which can be shrunk around the sensor/electrode section

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal contraction: Thermal Contraction

Data Source

PatentEP4120481B1Connection assembly
Publication Date: 2026.03.25 H&B ELECTRONICS GMBH & CO KG
  • EP4120481B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4120481B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4120481B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A connection arrangement (2) for the electrical and mechanical connection between a contact electrode (10) and an electrical conductor element (6) comprises a flexible sensor/electrode section (8) in which the contact electrode (10) is at least partially arranged. The connection arrangement also includes at least one electrical inner conductor (20) of the electrical conductor element (6), which serves to apply and/or remove an electrical voltage and/or capacitive change at the contact electrode (10). Furthermore, an electrical contact area (18) is provided in which the at least one electrical inner conductor (20) electrically contacts the contact electrode (10) of the sensor (4). A connecting device (30) is provided which can be biased against the contact electrode (10) of the sensor (4) in the contact area (18) with the inner conductor (20) interposed.