Floatable Light Pipe Connector Assembly for LED Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies with light pipes are limited in accommodating different LED configurations and are costly and difficult to assemble, as they require specific engagement members that can break during assembly.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly with a receptacle connector and a light pipe structure that includes an alignment member which can float within a member cavity, allowing the light pipe input end to adjust its position relative to the base, accommodating various LED configurations and simplifying assembly by reducing the need for complex engagement members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If engagement members such as lugs or hooks are used to couple the light pipe assembly to the connector, then the light pipe can be held in position, but the assembly complexity increases and the engagement members may break during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the separate engagement members (lugs, hooks, or projections) from the connector assembly and replaces them with a single integrated alignment member that performs the positioning function. This extraction of unnecessary components simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining the light pipe's positional stability through the alignment member's geometry-based floating mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment member serves multiple functions: it provides geometric alignment for the light pipe, acts as a floating positioning element within the member cavity, and eliminates the need for separate engagement members. This multi-functional design reduces component count and assembly complexity while ensuring reliable light pipe positioning.
2Reliability
If specific engagement members are designed to couple with holes or openings in the connector, then the light pipe assembly can be secured, but the manufacturing cost increases and assembly becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for separately manufactured engagement members by integrating the positioning function into a single alignment member. This reduces the number of parts that need to be molded and assembled, thereby lowering manufacturing costs and simplifying the production process.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment member combines the functions of multiple separate engagement members into a single component. By merging these functions, the patent reduces the number of manufacturing steps, eliminates the need for multiple molding operations, and simplifies the assembly process while maintaining secure light pipe positioning.
3Reliability
If engagement members are used to hold the light pipe, then the light pipe can be positioned, but additional costs for molding multiple small pieces are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the need for multiple small engagement member components and replaces them with a single alignment member. This extraction reduces the number of molding operations required, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable light pipe positioning through the alignment member's geometric design.
4Reliability
If the light pipe assembly is configured for particular LED configurations, then the light transmission can be optimized, but the adaptability to different LED configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment member is designed to float within the member cavity, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position based on the specific LED configuration. This floating mechanism enables the light pipe to self-align with different LED positions and orientations while maintaining optimal light transmission efficiency, thereby providing adaptability to various LED configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment member serves as a universal positioning element that can accommodate different LED configurations through its floating mechanism. This multi-functional design allows the same connector assembly to work with various LED types and positions without requiring reconfiguration, enhancing versatility while maintaining optimized light transmission.
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 solution enables the connector assembly to accommodate different LED configurations, reduces assembly complexity and costs, and ensures reliable light transmission for connection verification, enhancing the versatility and ease of use of the assembly process.
Implementation Method 1
The light pipe assembly transmits light flashed by an indicator, such as a light emitting diode (LED), that is located on the circuit board. The light propagates to a viewable location to notify an operator that the connection has been properly made.
Implementation Method 2
The light pipe (LP) structure that has input and output ends. The input end is configured to capture light emitted from the light-emitting element.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly configured to be positioned relative to a light-emitting element. The connector assembly includes a receptacle connector that has a member cavity and a base. The connector assembly also includes a light pipe (LP) structure that has input and output ends. The input end is configured to capture light emitted from the light-emitting element. The connector assembly also includes an alignment member that is received within the member cavity of the receptacle connector and is coupled to the LP structure. The alignment member is sized to float within the member cavity to control a relative position of the input end of the LP structure with respect to the base.