Floating Socket Structure for Misalignment-Tolerant Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sockets lack a reliable connection mechanism that accommodates misalignment between the socket and the connection object during automated assembly, leading to unreliable electrical connections due to potential misalignment between the socket and the connection object as well as the terminal of the connection object.
Innovation Solution
A socket design with a floating structure that allows the connection object to move relative to the circuit board, incorporating a first and second insulator with metal fittings and contacts that provide a movable connection, ensuring consistent contact despite misalignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a connector is disposed between the battery pack and the charging device, then charging function is enabled, but the connector increases device complexity and may cause foreign object intrusion hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is merged with the battery pack assembly, specifically integrated into the battery pack cover, eliminating the need for a separate standalone connector component. This integration reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the charging function, as the connector becomes part of the battery pack's structural assembly rather than an additional separate element.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery pack cover serves multiple functions: it provides structural protection for the battery cells, acts as a mounting structure for the connector, and contributes to the overall sealing and safety mechanisms. By making the cover multi-functional, the design reduces the total number of separate components needed, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining all necessary functions including charging.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a connector is disposed between the battery pack and the charging device, then charging function is enabled, but foreign object intrusion risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with preliminary protective features that prevent foreign object intrusion before charging occurs. The integration of the connector into the battery pack cover creates a pre-established protective barrier, and the design includes inherent safety mechanisms that prevent unauthorized or foreign objects from accessing the charging interface, thus preventing harmful effects before they can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery pack cover acts as an intermediary structure between the external environment and the charging connector. This intermediate layer provides physical protection and controlled access to the connector, preventing direct exposure to potential foreign objects while still allowing legitimate charging connections to be made safely.
3Ease of operation
If the battery pack is detachable from the electronic device, then flexibility is improved, but connection stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is nested within the battery pack cover structure, creating a layered, integrated assembly. This nesting arrangement ensures that the connector is securely positioned and protected within the battery pack, maintaining stable electrical connections during detachment and reattachment operations while preserving the flexibility of the detachable design.
Data Source
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AI summary
A socket (10) includes a first insulator (20), a second insulator (30), and contacts (50). The first insulator (20) is in the form of a frame. The second insulator (30) is movable relative to the first insulator (20). The contacts (50) each include a support portion supported by the first insulator (20) and are disposed within the second insulator (30). The contacts (50) each include an elastic portion (54) and a movable portion (55). The elastic portion (54) is linked to the support portion and is located between the support portion and the second insulator (30). The movable portion (55) includes a contacting portion (55c) for contact with a connection object (60). The movable portion (55) is farther than the elastic portion (54) from a periphery of the second insulator (30) and is movable relative to the second insulator (30).