Foil-to-Foil Connector With Deformable Layers for Uniform Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current connectors for printed electronics do not adequately address the requirements for shape and attachment to flexible foils, particularly in applications like cabin/cargo electronics and data transfer in aviation, where a reliable and adjustable electrical connection is needed.
Innovation Solution
A foil-to-foil connector with a click and snap mechanism using pressure-sensitive fleece layers to ensure homogeneous contact force, allowing for adjustable thickness and secure electrical connection between flexible carriers, which can be integrated into vehicle components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional connectors are used for printed electronics, then connection functionality is provided, but the shape and attachment do not meet the requirements for flexible foils
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a deformable layer that can elastically deform during the connection process. When the locking part is pressed against the base part, the deformable layer compresses and then rebounds to exert a pressing force on the conductive tracks, enabling the connector to adapt to flexible foils while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector uses a deformable layer whose physical state changes from a relaxed state to a compressed state during connection. This parameter change allows the connector to transition from an open configuration to a closed configuration, providing adaptability to flexible foils without requiring complex mechanical components.
2Reliability
If conventional attachment methods are used, then connection is achieved, but homogeneous contact force and minimal contact resistance are not ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable layer automatically generates a pressing force through its elastic rebound after compression. This self-service mechanism ensures homogeneous contact force across the conductive tracks without requiring external actuation or complex control systems, thereby improving electrical connection reliability while keeping the connection process simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable layer utilizes the parameter change of elastic deformation to generate a consistent pressing force. When compressed between the locking part and base part, the layer stores elastic energy and then rebounds to apply uniform pressure on the conductive tracks, ensuring minimal contact resistance through a simple mechanical action.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable thickness accommodation is required, then versatility for different foils is improved, but connector design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable layer provides a dynamic response to different foil thicknesses. When the locking part is pressed against the base part, the deformable layer compresses by an amount corresponding to the foil thickness and then rebounds to exert a pressing force. This dynamic behavior allows the connector to accommodate various foil thicknesses without requiring adjustable mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector exploits the parameter change of the deformable layer's compression state to adapt to different foil thicknesses. The layer's elastic properties allow it to deform appropriately for each thickness and then rebound to provide consistent contact force, achieving versatility without increasing design complexity.
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
Enables a universal connector concept for various applications, ensuring minimal contact resistance and secure electrical connections in aircraft and other vehicle components by using deformable layers to press-fit flexible foils together, providing a reliable and adjustable connection solution.
Implementation Method 1
a respective reactive force of the deformed first and second deformable layers causes the electrically conductive tracks of the first and second flexible carriers to be urged to contact one another
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a connector (1) for enabling an electrical connection between a first flexible carrier (21) with electrically conductive tracks (221) on its principal surface and a second flexible carrier (22) with electrically conductive tracks (222) on its principal surface. The connector (1) comprises a connector base part (11) having a first planar shape and being configured to accommodate a first surface of the first flexible carrier (21) opposed to the principal surface of the first flexible carrier (21), and a connector locking part (12) having a second planar shape and being configured to accommodate a second surface of the second flexible carrier (22) opposed to the principal surface of the second flexible carrier (22), wherein, in a closed state of the connector (1), the electrically conductive tracks (221, 222) of the first and second flexible carriers (21, 22) are urged to contact one another and are fixated in a defined position. (Fig. 1)